Anyone installed a shower pan kit from Schluter Systems? In their literature they say there systems are less labor intensive than a typical mortar-bed pan, however the kits seem to be very expensive.
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Go to http://johnbridge.com/vbulletin/index.php?. You'll find plenty of folks on this tile forum you can ask about this.
Yep.
They are nice showers, and perfect for curbless applications, but...........
1. Tres' Expensive, about a 3rd more than a standard membrane and mud bed. The membrane does not stop at a point 4-5 inches above the curb. Per instructions, you take the membrane all the way up the walls to the top of the shower. Further expense.
2. They are not Code in some states. Here in California, most municipalites spec hot mop or solid membrane above a pre-slope. You can get them approved, but it involves some politicing.
3. Materials are not readily available. These are not materials that you can obtain by just bopping down to the masonry yard. All have to be special ordered, and you better have the material order right.
4. You have to buy their proprietory drain system, and the drain screen looks cheap in my opinion.
They are not worth my time and trouble, except in very special applications.
Regards,
Boris
"Sir, I may be drunk, but you're crazy, and I'll be sober tomorrow" -- WC Fields, "Its a Gift" 1934
Hi B, I had the same question about a month ago and did some research into this. Most of the reviews I read were positive, and most JLC people seem to like the Schluter system quite a bit.
Keep in mind one thing, the shower base itself is simply polystyrene. Correct me if I'm wrong, but it is the same stuff used for packing tools, etc. in boxes. Very light material!
Schluter sent me their video and literature and I admit it looked very slick (not surprised). I decided to ask a tile setter associate of mine what he thought. Turns out he had used the system and didn't like it at all. He said the fleece water barrier gets too thick when folded into the corners changing the plane of the surface.
In fact, he offered to come and help me pour a proper concrete curb and base than let me use that system. He did however mention that he has used the drain system a few times. He likes it and will use it if asked.
It's always nice to talk to people who have used a product and still do. Or, people who have used it and have stopped for a good reason. I don't want to sound like an expert as I've never used it. Keep us posted....
Mike