Tiled shower curb: 3 tips to get it right
The curb of the tiled shower tray is the dam that stops the flooding. It keeps the water in the shower and not on the floor … the bathroom floor that is. It is built a little differently than the rest of a masonry shower tray. This is where it is different …
Tip 1: The lining over …
The waterproof liner membrane is the real secret to a leak-proof shower. Lifting it up and over the sidewalk is a bit tricky. You see, it’s going to be cut to fit over the curb, there’s no getting around it. So how do you seal the cuts so the shower doesn’t leak into the important area just above the curb? One way is a shortcut. Use specially made corner holds. They are simply glued where the siding is cut to fit over the curb. Glue the cuts and seal and voila … Here’s another thing …
Tip 2: The other place for metal …
The first and only other place where metal reinforcement is required is just above the subfloor for the foundation to start properly. But, metal slat is required on the curb. Use normal galvanized metal slat formed to fit on both sides of the countertop and over the top of the curb. Gently fold it to fit snug, as you can only staple or nail it in place outside of the shower. Don’t you dare poke a hole in the liner membrane on the inside of the shower or on the top of the sidewalk either …
Tip 3: It’s FAT MUD, not deck mud …
Here’s the other thing. Curb mud is not the mud used for the shower floor. This mixture has lime in it. Platform mud or floor mud does not contain lime. The line is what makes the mortar sticky. This time you will use what is called a masonry mix. This is exactly the same as for laying bricks. Get it pre-mixed, so the sand is already in it, or you can get a “masonry mix” and add the sand yourself.
Building a tile shower curb is the most artistic part of a traditional masonry shower base. The trick is to take your time and do it right. It’s just a matter of building the curb shape by hand with the proper mortar mix and then the shower tray is finished and ready to tile.