Replies

1. 
   gregn | Apr 14, 1999 01:02am | #1

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   I am about to embark on my first mortar bed adventure - a bathroom floor(with radiant heating cable) and shower pan. Can anyone provide good tips and/or moral support? Specific advice on mortar mix would be most appreciated as well. I have checked out the Taunton book/video by Michael Byrne - very clear and detailed. Anyone else seen it and have comments?

2. 
   Guest_ | Apr 14, 1999 01:02am | #2

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   Very difficult to explain how to screed correctly. Mix, about 3:1 and I use an additive such as Bondcrete though any PVA adhesive works for strength.Mix should be very dry, don't try mixing in a mixer.I usually batch 30 shovels of sand to one bag of cement and mix on the slab or a piece of ply.Sand I use is what we call fine river sand, sharp and largest grain around 2mm.Add water carefully to ensure the mix doesn't get too wet.If it does you're going to be in trouble as you screed and have to move over the bed. I use boards around 2' square distribute my weight.

   If you are using a liner for your shower ( copper or zinc or whatever is the norm in your part of the world ) then screed the tray first then work your way out of the room.