Replies

1. 
   spinnm | Oct 27, 2004 04:12am | #1

   You need to get over to the John Bridge Tile forum on JLConline.  Boo on the frame bench.  Grout is not waterproof.  Moisture will penetrate it.

   They have detailed instructions over there showing you how to build a bench.  If you want to do it easier....buy the "Better Bench" by Innovia.  Simple to install and tile.  Bullet proof if you install it properly.

   ShelleyinNM

1. 
   MSA1 | Oct 27, 2004 05:15am | #2

   Funny this should come up today. I just did this at work today. I'm certainly no tile pro so I asked a "tile guy" at the supply house. He said wood would be fine. He suggested framing, rubber membrane, then "hardi". BTW having said that grout will allow moisture through it what about the rest of the framing? I dont mean to sound sarcastic in saying that but its all framed in wood behind the tile. I will check the JLC page and see  if I need to change my work.

1. 
   spinnm | Oct 27, 2004 05:34am | #3

   You're right about some tile guys.  They also make curbs out of frame, cover with cbu, paint with membrane and tile over.  Didn't say some people don't do it....but this is your house, right?

   Behind the wall tile you should have CBU which is waterproof depending upon the brand and behind that you should have stapled 3 mil plastic to the framing members.

   ShelleyinNM

1. 
   MSA1 | Oct 27, 2004 05:48am | #5

   I thought I read somthing on this board about "not" using plastic behind the walls. Its not my house its for a client. As long as I use membrane I honestly dont see a problem. If theres something i'm missing, tell me so I can get it done correctly.   

1. 
   spinnm | Oct 27, 2004 06:39am | #7

   Don't know why anyone would say that.  I'm no tile pro, but we do all the tile work in every house we build.  I can build a shower pan which is no mean feat.

   If I want to know something about tile, I go to http://www.johnbridge.com  and click on forums.  John works in Houston which has got to be the one of the worst climates in the US moisturewise.

   The method you describe is done by some pros...because it's fast.  In and out.  They can start tiling immediately.  That doesn't make it the best way. 

   ShelleyinNM

2. 
   JeffBuck | Oct 28, 2004 01:40am | #8

   "paint with membrane" ...

   are you taking about Kerdi? I've not used it myself ... but it's supposed to be an outstanding product. Gets rave reviews at J Bridges too.

   You should have plastic on the walls , but cbu's aren't "waterproof".

   That why ... the membrane ... or kerdi.

   and with the waterproof membrane ...

   installed correctly ...

   there is no problem using either wood or concrete block.

   as to the cbu's ... I prefer durock .... I think it makes for a better gripping surface for the thinset ... that's it only job. the waterproofing is to be left to the rubber membrane.

   Jeff

1. 
   spinnm | Oct 28, 2004 02:25am | #10

   No, wasn't talking about Kerdi....that's a hole nuther animal.....total system....special drain...prevents water from entering the mortar bed at all.  Plan to use it the next time I have the luxury of experimenting.

   I assumed that what he was talking about was a liquid waterproofing membrane, painted/rolled on the cbu which is how the quickie guys do it here.  Could have misunderstood of course...there are many "membranes"

   I think that Denshield claims to be waterproof....thus my comment.

   Original question was about benches.  John's new book.  Pg 109.  Says that you can build from frame, waterproof, cover it with metal lath, and then mud it.  Even with mud he says, "In my opinion this is the least desirable method of building a shower bench".

   He's my man when it comes to tile.

   ShelleyinNM

2. 
   blue_eyed_devil | Oct 27, 2004 05:42am | #4

   We frame every one in wood. Then the plumber puts the membrane and drain. Then the tile guys set the tiles.

   Thats how the pros do it.

   I'll be building another just like that tomorrow.

   blueIf you want to read a fancy personal signature...  go read someone else's post.

1. 
   MSA1 | Oct 27, 2004 05:50am | #6

   Thanks Blue. The last thing I want to do is risk a clients home. Tile is certainly not my strong point but I do pride myself in not being too pround to ask advice.

1. 
   blue_eyed_devil | Oct 28, 2004 04:17am | #12

   Heres a pic of one I did today.

   The pic shows the shower seat...made out of 2x12 top and legs, with osb on the face.

   There is a 64" high "shelf" built in behind it. I like this idea...this is the first time i've done that. The shelf is made out of 2x6. It gives you a very handy place to put all your shower stuff.

   blueIf you want to read a fancy personal signature...  go read someone else's post.

2. 
   MSA1 | Oct 28, 2004 04:36am | #13

   Nice job. I've done the recessed shelf before, it worked out really well.

2. 
   EricPaulson | Oct 28, 2004 02:11am | #9

   Do it like this. It can be bigger, or wall to wall.

   The stone needs to be rodded underneath though.

   I don't know why some people make this so complicated. Set it into the tile only. It can't fall out.

   Eric

   I Love A Hand That Meets My Own,

   With A Hold That Causes Some Sensation.

1. 
   jimmyk | Oct 28, 2004 04:38am | #14

   How'd you get that picture of my shower?

1. 
   EricPaulson | Oct 29, 2004 04:42am | #15

   I knew I've been to your place!

   EricI Love A Hand That Meets My Own,

   With A Hold That Causes Some Sensation.

3. 
   gdavis62 | Oct 28, 2004 02:29am | #11

   Go to http://www.innoviscorp.com and see these:

   View Image

   I don't trust wood as a curb substrate, and neither do I trust wood as a bench seat substrate.

    

   Look how wood studs can shrink and cause drywall problems.  You don't want shrinkage, or worse yet, water uptake and swelling, underneath ceramic tile shower elements.