I am in the process of replacing the alcove shower stall in a master bath. Of course it started out as just re-grouting the tile floor. When I came up with mold and mildew under the grout along the curb, I bit the bullet and took out the base. There was only minor rot in one corner which affected one stud, so I count my blessings. Figuring that I would never be able to match the tile in the walls (which extend to the ceiling) and the DW would not be happy with different colored tiles and/or grout issues, I took out the walls.
Now I am faced with putting in a new shower stall. I will update the plumbing fixtures since the wall is open. Then I was planning on putting in some of that wall board that James DuHamel used in the bath remodel he documented on the old board. Help James! if you are reading this, cause I can’t find that thread in the archives. I am looking for your expert opinions. Should it be an acrylic one piece, fiberglass, corian wall, tile? What products would you suggest? I am looking for a low maintenance (of course!) product that is middle of the road. I have no problem doing tile work, but it would take me longer than a one piece unit or multi-piece unit and I would like to get my shower back! Can you guys help me out?
Thanks!
Replies
Frank
Here is a link to the orginal thread.
I found it with a search and that does not show the folders, but I doubt that it was in the archives, it was not that old.
It took about 30 seconds to find James' original thread...and about 8 minutes to re-find this darn discussion to post it. Ugh. I miss having a functional "back button" and a visible history of visited URLs. Double ugh. The Saga of the Bathroom Floor
Thanks guys, you are the best! Just haven't got the hang of the new search function yet.Frank
If you go with an acrylic.......soem models you can place right up against the framing. Vikrell by Sterling is a good line to look at. Should be info at
http://sterlingplumbing.com
Lots ways to go......you gotta decide what ya want and the look you are after. Jeff * Jeff J. Buck/ Buck Construction/ Pittsburgh, PA *
2nd Generation Buck Const, 3rd generation Craftsman
Frank, I do a lot of bathroom redo work. this includes more often than not a new shower as well.
My take on it is, the acrylic one piece units are leak proof as long as they are installed correctly. Correct installation with these is easy, really. It is pretty hard to stuff one up. My favourite tray is the one that has a raised lip all the way around. the liner fits over this, as do the doors and glass panels. gravity alone means they wont leak. sealant has to be applied along the top of the raised lip where the acrylic liner fits over.
THIS IS IMPORTANT. simply because the heat in the cubicle can pump water up and under.
I did a new lining in an existing recently, much as you describe ( I think ). the material chosen was a type of hardboard with a 'glazed' surface. the corners had plastic jointers. I have never liked this sort, simply because eventually they always fail. a totally enclosed shower can generate quite a lot of heat/steam and the jointers as far as I can tell just dont provide a total seal.
bit of a long winded reply, but i hope it helps.
regards aj
Wood Hoon
Frank you might want to check out this building board from germany if you decide to tile the surround. the company is WEDI . the website is http://www.wedi.de i believe. You have to check out the products they have....I saw it demoed at the JLC live show in portland. Comes in many thicknesses, is already waterproof and very light.
on the websight they have all the american distributors under "international"
I was wondering if you could give me some advice on installing a bathtub in an inaccessible 3 wall alcove, without using a tub w/ a removable apron? thanks for any help
Thank you all for the replies. I will check out the sources you provided. I like the one piece acrylic units also. Mostly because it is difficult to screw it up and Murphy seems to live at my house!
26, I would suggest you post your question here. These guys are pros and they can probably help you. Not to be un-helpful, but that is why I asked my question!
Frank
Consider using a traditional mud bed base and tile. Yes Acrylic is cheaper, faster, and less prone to screw ups, but personally I like the look and feel of a nice mosiac on the floor. Its a sign of quality and craftsmanship.
Just another take. . . . . .
Boris
"Sir, I may be drunk, but you're crazy, and I'll be sober tomorrow" -- WC Fields, "Its a Gift" 1927