Guide to Choosing Curbless Shower Systems 

 

 

 

  

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Overview Curbless entry showers are by far one of the most popular ways to build a shower today. Most would say, “why have a curb to step over, if I don’t have to?”  

This will be a comprehensive list of materials, supplies, & common tools needed to build curbless entry showers. The materials & supplies are based on minimum order amounts and can become less expensive with larger quantities ordered.   

We will focus on 4 common sized showers for curbless entries: 

● 4ft x 5ft  ● 4ft x 4ft ● 3ft x 5ft ● 3ft x 4ft 

Overall dimensions of bathrooms for these sized showers will vary widely. Be sure to calculate your exact square footage and determine materials needed. The 4 common bathroom sizes that we will focus on are: 

● 5ft x 8ft ● 6ft x 8ft ● 5ft x 12ft ● 7ft x 13ft 

Goals 1. Planning ahead! This will help you evaluate the costs of materials and supplies 

needed to remodel a bathroom 

2. Allow you to budget and determine what “WOW factors” you are willing to spend more money on. All too often, people overspend on tile, vanities, mirrors or lighting fixtures before knowing the costs of core setting and waterproofing materials. This guide will better inform you of the costs and options before getting started 

3. Advise you in tool recommendations that will speed up the process of installation and make things easier 

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Specifications There are many ways to remodel a bathroom. The materials, supplies, and tools recommended in these lists are based on the videos and tutorials in Bathroom Repair Tutor. These teachings are based on the cumulative experience of the founders and the remodeling of 100’s of bathrooms. No sponsorship, payment, or compensation from the manufacturers are a factor in the items recommended. These recommendations are solely based on experience and the use of products. Some materials are not easily acquired in rural communities, which is why most links are from online sources. Shipping is not factored in the pricing, so be sure to calculate that into your budget. Many of these links will be affiliate links from sites like Amazon. These links provide a small profit to Bathroom Repair Tutor LLC at no cost to you. We appreciate the contribution if you choose to buy through our links.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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4 Common Sized Bathroom Layouts 

 Layout 1 

● 32” x 60” curbless shower ● Toilet centered between tub and vanity (17” centered in an 8ft bath) 

○ Code: Minimum distance should be 15” from the center of the toilet to other fixtures 

● 30” sink vanity ○ Adjust size for smaller bathrooms 

● 28” door entry  

  

 

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Layout 2 

● 32” x 48” shower ● Toilet centered between shower wall and vanity (21 ¾”) 

○ Code: Minimum distance should be 15” from the center of the toilet to other fixtures 

● 48” sink vanity ○ 21” of clear space in front of vanity 

● 30” door entry  

 

 

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Layout 3 

● 48” x 60” shower ● Toilet centered 18” away from shower 

○ Code: Minimum distance should be 15” from the center of the toilet to other fixtures 

● 60” double sink vanity ● 30” door entry  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Layout 4 

● 48” x 42” shower ● 36” x 60” drop-in tub w/ knee wall adjacent to shower ● Toilet centered 18” away from tub wall 

○ Code: Minimum distance should be 15” from the center of the toilet to other fixtures 

● 60” double sink vanity ○ 21” clear space in front of vanity 

● 30” door entry  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Determining the size of the walk-in shower is dependent on the size of the bathroom. 

Referencing NKBA (National Kitchen & Bath Association) guidelines can help you with determining this. Some NKBA recommendations to keep in mind: 

● Allow spacing of 18” from center of the toilet to any fixed fixture (vanity, tub, etc) ● Allow 30” spacing in front of the toilet ● Allow 24” clearance in front of the shower ● Allow 21” of clear space in front of a lavatory  

 

 

 

 

  

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Choosing a curbless shower system  

It's important to understand how a shower floor can be level with the main bathroom floor. All shower pans, whether they are curbless or not, require a slope of ¼” per foot to drain properly. This factor is significant because it dictates the overall thickness of the outer edge of your shower pan. The bigger the shower area, the thicker the pan will need to be 

For instance: 

1. A 4ft shower with a center drain would have a ½” difference in height from drain location to the outer end of shower pan. 

a. 2 (ft to center) x ¼” = ½” 2. A 5ft shower with a center drain would have a ⅝” difference in height from drain 

location to outer edge of shower pan a. 2.5 (ft to center) x ¼” = ⅝” 

These height differences might seem small in the grand scheme of things, but become a very challenging aspect when it comes to creating a curbless entry. Most standard pre-sloped shower pans are a minimum of 1 ½” thick, and traditional mortar bed shower pans are recommended to be a minimum 3/4” thick at the drain location.  

The TCNA (Tile Council of North America) is a great reference for industry standards. 

ANSI A108.01 2.6.1.4 shows minimum thicknesses of a mortar bed for a ceramic tile installation: 

 

  Extra Heavy/Heavy  Moderate  Residential 

Thickness of bed  2 ½ in. minimum; 3 ½ in. maximum 

1 ¾ in. minimum; 2 ½ in maximum 

¾ in. minimum;  1 ¼ in. maximum 

Reinforcing Fabric  See A108.02-3.7  See A108.02-3.7  Expanded Metal lath (see A108.02-3.6) 

Placement of Reinforcing 

Suspend reinforcing wire in the mortar bed 

Suspend reinforcing wire in the mortar bed 

Fasten expanded metal lath to substrate 

 

 

 

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Here is a diagram of a standard mortar bed installation with bonded flange drain (ex. Schluter drain) 

 

 

 

As you can see in the diagram above, traditional shower pans can not be installed as a curbless entry without significantly lowering the shower area. Cutting or notching joists is NOT a method that should be used, unless you consult a structural engineer and get certified plans on how to do so. The other alternative is to raise the entire outside floor area to meet up with the height of the pan, but this usually results in a bad transition height to the outside floor of the bathroom.   

 

So what are your options then? 

 

 

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For concrete floors: 

● Easiest method is to cut and bust out all existing concrete in the shower area ● Dig down and install vapor barrier, 2” pea gravel, and 2” high strength concrete ● Install a traditional mud bed installation with a linear or standard flanged drain 

○ Screed mortar bed to level of outside floor area ○ Topical waterproofing method 

 

Material Recommendations: 

 

For constructing foundation of mud bed: 

● 4 mil plastic - vapor barrier ● Pea gravel - minimum 2” thick ● High strength concrete - minimum 2” thick  ● Mapei Modified thin-set to bond mud bed to concrete 

For mud bed construction (choose one) 

● Mapei 4-1 mud bed mix or ● Ardex A38 screed mortar mix or ● Laticrete 209 floor mud  

 

Standard 4” drains (choose one) 

● Schluter Drain ($90) ● Laticrete Drain($125) ● USG Drain Body($34) 

○ Drain cover ($35) 

Linear drains (choose one) 

*Recommending to only purchase linear drains that have flanges to bond waterproofing properly; size of drain dependent on shower size 

● KBRS - ($253) 48” linear drain (drain body is 50”) ● Schluter - ($266) 48” linear drain (drain body 49 ¼”) ● Laticrete - ($545) 48” linear drain (drain body 50”) 

 

 

 

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Choose a waterproofing method: 

1. Liquid waterproofing application (RedGard, ShowerSeal, Hydro Ban,etc.) or 2. Sheet membranes (Schluter, USG, etc.) 3. Waterproof Foam board for walls  

a. Combined with a sheet membrane or liquid waterproofing over mud bed 

1. Liquid Waterproofing (choose one) 

● Cement Board - for walls without foam board; quantity determined by size of shower 

○ Durock screws($18) ○ Alkali-Resistant mesh tape (for taping seams) ($12) ○ Mapei Modified thin-set to set tape ($18) 

● Laticrete Hydro Ban ($70) ○ Hydro Ban mesh for corners ($30) ○ Valve seal ($16) ○ Pipe seal ($11) 

● KBRS ShowerSeal kit ($163) ● Ardex 8+9 ($120) 

○ Ardex mesh tape for corners($98) ● RedGard ($48) 

○ Mesh for corners ($13) 

 

2. Sheet Membranes (choose one) 

● drywall for walls without foam board; quantity determined by size of shower  ● Schluter Kerdi  

○ 108 sq ft roll ($154) quantity determined by size of shower ○ Kerdi band ($30) for corners - 2 rolls needed for walls and floor ○ Kerdi fix ($25) touch-ups, other areas needing caulked ○ Schluter valve seal ($10) ○ Schluter pipe seal ($9) ○ All-set thinset ($58) to set all membranes  

● USG membrane 75 sq ft roll ($65) - quantity determined by size of shower ○ USG band for corners ($25) ○ USG sealant ($15) ○ USG valve seal ($9) ○ USG pipe seal ($7) ○ Mapei Modified thin-set to adhere to all membrane ($18) 

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3. Waterproof Foam boards; quantity dependant on shower size (choose one): 

 

● 7 sheet Hydroban kit ($280)  ○ Durock screws ($17) ○ 6 tubes Hydro Ban sealant ($120) ○ Hydro Ban mesh for corners ($30) 

● 8 sheet Goboard kit ($447) ● Kerdi board ($66 per sheet) 

○ Screws & washers ($35) ○ Kerdi band($65)  ○ Kerdi fix ($25) touch-ups, other areas needing caulked ○ Kerdi trowel($25) ○ All-set thinset ($58) to set all membranes 

● Wedi board ($49 per sheet) ○ Screws and washers ($30) ○ Wedi Sealant ($15) 

 

Liquid waterproofing combined with a foam board: (choose one) 

 

● Laticrete Hydro Ban ($70) ○ Hydro Ban mesh for corners ($30) ○ Valve seal ($16) ○ Pipe seal ($11) 

● KBRS ShowerSeal kit ($163) ● Ardex 8+9 ($120) 

○ Ardex mesh tape for corners($98) ● RedGard ($48) 

○ Mesh for corners ($13) 

 

 

 

 

 

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Sheet waterproof membrane combined with a foam board:(choose one) 

● Schluter Kerdi  ○ 54 sq ft roll ($80) quantity determined by size of shower ○ Kerdi band ($30) for corners - 1 roll floor ○ Kerdi fix ($25) touch-ups, other areas needing caulked ○ Schluter valve seal ($10) ○ Schluter pipe seal ($9) ○ All-set thinset ($58) to set all membranes  

● USG membrane 75 sq ft roll ($65) - quantity determined by size of shower ○ USG band for corners ($25) ○ USG sealant ($15) ○ USG valve seal ($9) ○ USG pipe seal ($7) ○ Mapei Modified thin-set to adhere to all membrane ($18) 

 

 

 

 

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For wood subfloors: 

● Cut out plywood in shower area ● Frame and recess plywood even with top of joists  

○ Providing a ¾” recess in shower area ● Install a thin pre-sloped shower pan  

○ These pans are specifically designed for a curbless entry shower ● Choose a wall board and method of waterproofing 

 

Thin pre-sloped pans: 

 

4’ x 5’ showers (choose one)- 

● Wedi 4’ x 5’ Fundo Ligno ($901)  ● VIM 4’ x 5’ pan system ($919) ● ARC 47 ¼” x 59” shower pan ($850) 

○ Use a Ardex feather finish to extend pan  ○ Waterproofing kit for the shower pan only - ½ gallon kit ($240) ○ Waterproofing kit for entire shower and walls - 2 gallon kit ($475) 

● Schluter Linear drain pan 38” x 76” KSLT1930/965S ($274) ○ Cut to fit & extend pan with mud base ○ Linear drain located at entrance to shower 

■ Schluter Kerdi line drain body 57 ⅛”(KL1V60E140) ($369) ■ Schluter 56” drain grate(KL1B19EB140)($396) 

● Schluter 4’ x 5’ shower tray (KST1220/1525) ($156) ○ Schluter Drain ($90) ○ This option requires adding a layer of ½” plywood or cement board to 

entire outside floor area; pan is 1 3/32” thick) 

 

3’ x 5’ showers (choose one)- 

● WEDI 3’ x 5’ Fundo Ligno ($674) ● VIM 4’ x 5’ pan system ($919) 

○ Cut to fit ● ARC 32 ¼” x 59” shower pan ($800) 

○ Use a Ardex feather finish to extend pan  ○ Waterproofing kit for the shower pan only - ½ gallon kit ($240) ○ Waterproofing kit for entire shower and walls - 2 gallon kit ($475) 

● Schluter Linear drain pan 38” x 76” KSLT1930/965S ($274) ○ Cut to fit & extend pan with mud base 

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○ Linear drain located at entrance to shower ■ Schluter Kerdi line drain body 57 ⅛”(KL1V60E140) ($369) ■ Schluter 56” drain grate(KL1B19EB140)($396) 

● Schluter 38” x 72” shower tray (KST965/1525) ($113) ○ Schluter Drain ($90) ○ Cut to fit ○ This option requires adding a layer of 3/8” plywood to entire outside floor 

area; pan is 1 1/8” thick) 

 

4’ x 4’ showers (choose one) -  

● WEDI 4’ x 4’ Fundo Ligno ($683) ● VIM 4’ x 5’ pan system ($919) 

○ Cut to fit ● ARC 47 ¼” x 47 ¼” shower pan ($800) 

○ Use a Ardex feather finish to extend pan  ○ Waterproofing kit for the shower pan only - ½ gallon kit ($240) ○ Waterproofing kit for entire shower and walls - 2 gallon kit ($475) 

● Schluter 48” x 48” thin tray KST1220BF ($100)  ○ Use Ditra Heat or Ditra XL or¼” cement board to raise height of main bath 

floor ■ Pan is 1” thick  

○ Schluter Drain ($90) 

3’ x 4’ showers (choose one) - 

● WEDI 3’ x 4’ Fundo Ligno ($633) ● Schluter 3’ x 4’ thin tray KST915/1220BF ($117) 

○ Use Ditra Heat or Ditra XL or ¼” cement board to raise height of main bath floor 

■ Pan is 1” thick  ○ Schluter Drain ($90) 

● ARC 30 ¼” x 44 ¾”shower pan ($800) ○ Use a Ardex feather finish to extend pan  ○ Waterproofing kit for the shower pan only - ½ gallon kit ($240) ○ Waterproofing kit for entire shower and walls - 2 gallon kit ($475) 

 

 

 

 

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For Walls: 

If using wedi or schluter, it's best to use the full system with the coinciding method of waterproofing. Otherwise, warranty may not be extended for the system. Quantity dependant on size of shower 

● Wedi 3 x 5 sheets ($49 per sheet) ○ The tile shops also carry wedi ○ Wedi washers and screws (100 pk; $30) ○ Wedi sealant ($20) 

● Kerdi board ($66 per sheet) Find a local supplier will reduce cost ○ Screws & washers ($35) ○ Kerdi band($65)  ○ Kerdi fix ($25) touch-ups, other areas needing caulked ○ Kerdi trowel($25) ○ All-set thinset ($58) to set all membranes 

 

● Schluter Kerdi (over drywall) ○ 108 sqft roll ($154) quantity determined by size of shower ○ Kerdi band ($30) for corners - 2 rolls needed for walls and floor ○ Kerdi fix ($25) touch-ups, other areas needing caulked ○ Schluter valve seal ($10) ○ Schluter pipe seal ($9) ○ All-set thinset ($58) to set all membranes  

 

If using a VIM or ARC pan system, these systems will come with liquid waterproofing in each kit. 

VIM kits include: 

● 2 gallons of Laticrete Hydro barrier or Mapei Aqua defense ● This is enough to coat an entire shower with cement board ● 4’ x 5’ VIM kit 

ARC kits include: 

● Waterproofing kit for the shower pan only - ½ gallon kit ($240) ● Waterproofing kit for entire shower and walls - 2 gallon kit ($475) 

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It is more cost effective to use cement boards with these systems since they already provide a liquid waterproofing within the kits. However, you can choose to use any method to waterproof walls. It can be a great time saver to use a waterproof foam board with these systems. 

Cement board backer boards; quantity dependant on shower size: 

● 3’ x 5’ permabase cement board ($11) ● Durock screws($18) ● Alkali-resistant mesh tape (for taping seams) ($12) ● Mapei Modified thin-set to set tape ($18) 

Affordable Foam waterproof backer boards: 

● 7 sheet Hydroban kit ($280)  ○ Durock screws ($17) ○ 6 tubes Hydro Ban sealant ($120) ○ Hydro Ban mesh for corners ($30) 

● 8 sheet Goboard kit ($447) ● 6 sheet Goboard kit ($362) 

 

 

WEDI Fundo Ligno Shower system 

 

Pros Cons 

Fast & easy installation  Expensive 

Can begin tiling same day  Not readily available everywhere 

Pans & boards are fully waterproof all the way through; minor damage or cuts to surface of wedi will not jeopardize waterproofing 

Accuracy on cutting of pans is needed. System requires tight joints from walls and pan  

No dust or mess  Drain assembly can be cumbersome to match the height of some tiles 

 

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Schluter pans 

 

Pros Cons 

Affordable & easy to install  Pans differ in thickness; All pans require addition height for outside floor 

Can begin tiling same day  Thinset application of membranes can be messy; labor intensive-especially full membrane over drywall 

Can extend size of showers easily with a mud base and additional kerdi membrane 

4’x5’ pans require additional ½” hieght for outside floors; 3’ x 5’ pans require ⅜” layer 

Linear drain options have kerdi fleece bonded to flanges (a superior waterproof bond than other types) 

Thinset build up in corners can complicate tile setting 

 

 

VIM Shower pan system 

 

Pros Cons 

Large 6” drain assembly. Very stylish drain covers 

Pan only comes in one size 4’ x 5’; can be costly compared to others when cutting to fit a smaller sized shower 

Very solid base; no worry of damaging unlike a foam base 

Thinset application needed to support the pan makes it cumbersome to install;the overall weight of a full pan can be 100lbs or more.  

Can extend size of showers easily with a floor patch material 

Multiple steps to waterproof; typically 48 hours before tiling can begin 

Kit includes all waterproofing material needed for entire shower 

Can be an expensive option if wanting to use a foam board for walls and not using all the liquid waterproofing included in kit 

 

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ARC Shower pan system 

 

Pros Cons 

Many pan size options and drain location adjustment 

Expensive  

Large 6” drain assembly. Very stylish drain covers 

Multiple steps to waterproof; typically 48 hours before tiling can begin 

Very solid base; no worry of damaging unlike a foam base 

Larger bases are not guaranteed to be ¼” per ft.; manufacture states guaranteed 1% grade per ft or greater (1% of a foot is ⅛”) 

Can extend size of showers easily with a floor patch material 

Most pans do not fit a standard shower size and require the extension of pans with a floor patch material 

Kit includes all waterproofing material with two options. Shower floor only and full shower option 

 

 

 

*Prices above do not reflect costs to waterproofing the outside floor or raising of height. Example: Schluter requires raising of floor to meet up with pan 

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Waterproofing the main floor 

 

Waterproofing the entire bathroom floor is a critical step in ensuring a proper installation for curbless showers. Showers without curbs have an added risk of failure to water leakage through a form of water movement called: Capillary action 

What is capillary action and how does it work? 

Adhesion of water to the walls of a vessel will cause an upward force on the liquid at the edges and result in a meniscus which turns upward. This allows water to absorb into the thin-set layer under tile and flow outside of the shower area. 

 

How to prevent capillary action in a curbless shower? 

 

Isolate and break the thinset layer at the shower entrance. Simply apply a bead of sealant (kerdi fix, wedi sealant, etc) at the outside floor tile joint and seal to waterproof the shower floor. This will break the continuous thinset layer under tile and prevent capillary action from wicking water up and out of shower.  

 

 

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Floor Waterproofing recommendations: 

 

● Schluter Ditra 54 sq ft (easiest method)($80) ○ Kerdi band to seal seams and edges of the room ($66) ○ Inside corners - 2 pack ($13) ○ Schluter All-Set to adhere to membranes ($57) ○ Kerdi fix to seal around toilet and capillary joint ($25) 

● Schluter XL Ditra - 175 sq ft ($225) ○ For use with schluter pans that are 1” thick ○ Kerdi band to seal seams and edges of the room ($66) ○ Inside corners - 2 pack ($13) ○ Schluter All-Set to adhere to membranes ($57) ○ Kerdi fix to seal around toilet and capillary joint ($25) 

● ¼” cement board ($11 per sheet) and choice of liquid waterproofing ○ Mapei Modified thin-set to set cement board to the floor ($18) ○ Durock screws($18) ○ USG liquid waterproofing($50)  ○ USG waterproof tape for corners & seam at pan ($25) ○ USG sealant to seal around toilet and capillary joint ($15) 

 

 

Helpful tools: 

 

● Corner putty knife - to spread the sealant ● 3” putty knife - for spreading sealant ● Fein Oscillating tool - cutting just about anything  ● Milwaukee drill set - impact and drill 18V kit ● Milwaukee mud mixer - mixing thin-set ● Mixing paddle - mixing thin-set ● Bucket mortar mixing paddle - for mixing mud base for showers  ● Acetone to clean sealant off things and hands ● Ditra Trowel - applying Ditra to the substrate ● Kerdi trowel - setting kerdi membranes ● ¼” x ¼” x ¼” trowel - setting cement board or ditra XL ● ¼” x ⅜” x ¼” trowel -setting pans ● 16” wood float - helps setting ditra membranes ● Safety glasses  

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Shower Faucets Selecting a shower faucet can get overwhelming! So many to choose from with vast differences in pricing, options, finishes, and styles. The style we can not help you out with…..but with the others, I recommend answering the following questions before settling on a fixture: 

1. Will I have access to shut-off valves behind the shower?   2. What kind of piping will I be connecting to existing plumbing? PEX, copper, CPVC? 3. Do I have the skills & tools to solder copper piping? Do I want to? 

 

For the first question, if you will not have access to shut off valves behind the shower? Purchase a shower valve kit that has integral shut off valves on the valve itself 

 

 Delta Universal valve with integral stops  

 

 

 

Moen 2590 valve with stops 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Knowing what kind of existing piping you will be connecting to is helpful. If you convert your plumbing to PEX you can purchase valves that are ready to receive it, or simply add the adapters needed. However, you need to be sure you buy a valve that has female or male thread fittings to adapt to. Otherwise, you will be soldering fittings to convert and create more work for yourself 

 

 

 

Grohe shower valve with PEX adapters and integral stops 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

½” female PEX adapters - easily adapter to valves with male threads. Always use Teflon tape when threading on. (clockwise application 5-6 rotations) 

 

 

½” male PEX adapters - for valves with ½” female connections 

 

 

 

 

 

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Skill level & tools required to solder is also something to consider. There are many great options that can eliminate soldering all together 

 

 

 

 

Hansgrohe iBox with female threaded ports. Easily adapt to PEX with ¾” male adapters  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grohe Grohflex rough-in box. Easily adapt to PEX with ½” male adapters  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

½” drop ear elbows with ½” female adapter. Great for shower head port and/or handheld 

 

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Knowing what kind of valve and how you are connecting to it should help narrow down some of the choices. Price & reviews will dictate the rest of the decision. Typically the higher-priced items will have better functioning showerheads and overall quality feel of the valve. Reviews are great at pointing out low-quality construction of trim and showerhead pressure.  

 

We recommend:  

● Hansgrohe Raindance w/ handheld iBox valve included ($815)  ● Grohe Europlus shower system w/ handheld valve included ($586) ● Delta Monitor 17 shower system w/ handheld valves included ($559) ● Kohler Raindance S w/ handheld ($384) 

○ Valve trim ($99) ○ Valve with shut-offs ($99) 

● Delta Ashlyn valve trim - showerhead only ($123) ○ PEX valve with stops ($40) ○ Male thread with stops ($42) ○ Standard Male thread ($30) 

● Moen Posi-temp shower valve trim - shower head only ($68) ○ Posi temp PEX valve ($83)  ○ Posi temp valve female threads with stops ($112) ○ Posi temp valve standard female thread ($83)  

● Grohe Eurostyle trim kit - shower head only($115) ○ Grohe valve w/ stops ($65) ○ Grohe Pex valve w/stops ($68) 

 

Supplies needed will be dependent on the type of existing plumbing you have and the valve selected. Here’s a general list of items needed 

● Sharkbite shut off valves - easy to adapt to existing copper behind tub or shower ● Teflon tape - for all threaded fittings ● ½” PEX crimps with red spacers 75 pack ● ½” PEX 90’s - 10 pack ● ½” female PEX adapters - 4 pack 

● ½” male PEX adapters - 5 pack 

● ½” drop ear elbows 

● ½” test plugs (showerhead port/handheld)  

 

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Helpful tools: 

● Rigid PEX tubing cutter  ● ½” Copper auto cut tool ● Set of channel locks  ● MAP gas torch set  ● Oatey Solder kit ● Heat guard cloth ● Copper pipe cleaning tool  ● Emery cloth for cleaning pipes  ● Sharkbite deburring & depth gauge  ● Sharkbite ½” removal tool ● Safety glasses  

 

 

 

 

 

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Thin-Set Thin-set is probably one of the most confusing products to buy for your project. So many choices and opinions on what works best. If you are ever in doubt of what to use for a tile that you are setting, it's always best to contact the manufacturer of the tile you are using. At the moment, the consensus of tile professionals & TCNA is to always use thin-set in wet areas, NOT mastic or pre-mixed thin-sets. Selecting a thin-set must meet the standards of tile and waterproofing materials used. The recommendations we suggest are based on experience, the guidance of manufactures, and collective agreement of tile professionals & associations. 

 

Choosing white or gray thin-set?  

 

White thin-set recommended for: 

● Marble, travertine, light-colored stones and pebble stones ● Glass  ● Light-colored grouts 

○ Example: white subway tile with white grout - use white thin-set 

Gray thin-set recommended for: 

● Slate and darker stones ● Darker colored grout 

○ Example: black tile with a dark grout - use gray thin-set 

 

Thin-set recommendations are separated into categories: 

 

1. Walls 2. Floors 3. Schluter Products 

 

 

 

 

 

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Walls 

Premium non-sag thin-set for walls will make your tiling experience much easier. Not only do these thin-sets have a long pot life (length of time that it stays good to use after mixing) but they are a tremendous help with mosaics, accents, & difficult tile layouts. 

1. Ardex X77 ($60) - our favorite! a. The Tile shops should carry 

2. Laticrete 254 ($38) 3. Mapei Ultraflex 3 ($40) 

 

Floors  

For floors, the high-quality non-sag thin-sets are not necessary. These recommended thin-sets below are much more cost-effective, have a long pot life, and easy to use: 

1. Ardex X5($22)  2. Laticrete 4XLT ($22) 3. Mapei Ultraflex LHT ($22) 

 

Schluter Products 

Schluter has its own category because it's the only waterproofing company that has strict guidelines on what kind of thin-sets to use with their products. Almost all other waterproofing methods allow a modified or unmodified thin-set to be used.   

 

Schluter requires modified thin-set for setting Ditra, Kerdi, and shower pans over drywall or plywood: 

● Schluter All-Set ($57) can do it all, highly recommend to set membranes & tile 

● Ardex X5 ($22) - modified thin-set (can be used for setting tile and all membranes) 

○ Ardex takes the warranty coverage for use with Schluter products ● Mapei Kerabond ($13) - must add additive for setting membranes 

○ Mapei Polymer additive ($20) to make modified ● Laticrete 4XLT ($22) - modified thin-set ● Custom Flexbond ($33) - modified thin-set 

 

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Schluter requires unmodified thin-set for setting Ditra, Kerdi, and shower pans over concrete or setting tile over Ditra, Kerdi, and shower pans: 

● Schluter All-Set ($57) can do it all. Highly recommend to set membranes & tile ● Ardex X5 ($22) - modified thin-set (can be used for setting tile and all 

membranes) ○ Ardex takes the warranty coverage for use with Schluter products 

● Mapei Kerabond ($13) - unmodified ● Mapei uncoupling mortar ($15) - unmodified ● Laticrete 317 mortar ($11) - unmodified 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Tile Setting Tile setting is one of the most important skills you will learn throughout a bathroom renovation project. It is something that requires patience, a critical eye, and proper installation methods to achieve a good bond. It takes time to be proficient at it. With the right tools, use of good products, and the teachings of Bathroom Repair Tutor, we are confident you can achieve professional results with your remodel.  

 

 

3 helpful categories in preparing for tile setting 

 

1. Trowel sizing 2. Spacing & pattern recommendations 3. Leveling systems 

 

 

Trowel sizing 

 

General rules: 

● Size should be the same or greater than the thickness of tile being used ● Size is always based off coverage provided to the back of tiles 

 

 

 

Always double-check coverage of the tile you are setting. If you don’t see at least 95% coverage in a shower area: 

1. Be sure you are back buttering tile 2. Be sure thin-set is properly mixed   3. Upgrade to larger trowel size 4. Reinspect after adjusting 

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Our recommendations: 

● Large format tile & natural stone (any tile longer than 15” one side) ○ Euro trowel ○ ½” x ½” x ½” trowel 

● 12” x 12”, 8” x 8”, or tiles under 15”  ○ ¼” x ⅜” x ¼” trowel 

● Subway tile, smaller tiles, ¼” thick tiles ○ ¼” x ¼” trowel  

● Penny tiles, thin mosaics ○ 3/16” x 3/16” trowel (Ditra trowel) 

 

Tile Spacing and Patterns 

 

TCNA (Tile Council of North America) recommendations: 

● Minimum joint 1/16” for all tile ● Grout joint should be 3 times the variation dimensions of the tile 

○ Example: randomly compare a box of tile and you find out the tiles vary 1/16” from one another. A 3/16” grout joint would be recommended 

● ⅛” joint on rectified tiles over 15” in length in a running bond/brick joint pattern ○ Most tiles are sold rectified, meaning squared off edges 

● 3/16” joint for unrectified tiles over 15” in length in a running bond/brick joint pattern 

● Large format tiles (anything longer than 15” one side) in an offset pattern should be a maximum 33% unless otherwise specified by tile manufacture 

 

Other considerations: 

● Large format tiles, such as plank tiles & 12” x 24” tiles, often do not have completely square edges. If you use a 1/16” spacer, it will most likely look like a much bigger joint when grouted. Always look at sides of the tile to see if they are completely straight before choosing a size 

● Know what grout you will be using. Manufactures will have limitations on size ● Pattens, like a herringbone pattern, are easier with a larger grout joint 

 

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Spacers & leveling system recommendations: 

 

● Horseshoe spacers 500 pk ($22) - much easier to use than box store rubber spacers ● T-lock leveling system - great for large format tile (very strong clips) 

○ 1/16” clips 250 pk($40) ○ ⅛” clips 250 pk($47) ○ 100 pk wedges ($32) ○ T-lock pliers ($44) 

● Tuscan seam clips - great for tiles 12” and under  ○ 1/16” clips 150 pk - (⅜”-½” thick tiles)($55) ○ ⅛” clips 150 pk - (⅜”-½” thick tiles)($47) ○ Blue clips 150 pk - (¼” - ⅜” size/no grout spacer)($50) ○ Red clips 150 pk - (greater than ⅜”-½”/no grout spacer)($59) 

 

Helpful tools: 

● Linoleum knife - clean out grout joints ● White scrubby pads - clean tiles  ● Sulfamic acid crystals - softens hardened thin-set, only use if necessary 

○ Always take precautions when using it! Follow manufacturer's instructions ○ Clean up with water and allow all joints to dry before grouting 

● Ardex sponge - clean up, grouting, best sponges on the market ○ Cheaper to buy from a distributor  

● Milwaukee mud mixer - mixing thin-set ● Mixing paddle - mixing thin-set ● Latex gloves 50 pk - keep thin-set off your hands! ● Dewalt laser - super helpful for accurately keep tiles level ● Dewalt laser pole - makes it easier to adjust laser level to each tile height  ● Dewalt wet saw - one of the best on market! ● 24” Montolit Masterpiuma tile cutter - Premium brand, amazing results ● 19” Ishii tile cutter- a great option for any homeowner-contractor  ● Fein grinder - 4 ½” grinder ● Fein dust shroud - amazing results with a HEPA vac ● Fein HEPA Vac - Unbelievable results, much less dust inhaled! ● Montolit Goldline 4 ½” DNA porcelain tile blade for grinder  ● Safety glasses 

 

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Grouting Grouting might be the most overlooked and underestimated part of a tiling project. It's important to understand the differences and limitations of each type of grout. And once again budget & skill set will be another factor in choosing the right grout for you. 

 

Grouts are separated into 4 different categories: 

1. Traditional cementitious grouts  2. High-performance grouts 3. Pre-mixed acrylic and urethane grouts 4. Epoxy 

 

 

 

Traditional cementitious grouts  

These grouts have been around for decades. They come in two forms Sanded & Unsanded. 

Sanded grouts are primarily used for joints ⅛” and bigger and unsanded for ⅛” or smaller. 

Pros Cons 

Inexpensive  Requires sealing (and continual sealing over time) 

Readily available at big box stores  Absorbs water/ darkens when wet 

Long setting pot life/ no rushing to remove the first application 

Color consistency can vary from bag to bag 

Very fluid consistency and easy to pack joints 

Sanded grouts are very grainy and course; can be tough to keep clean 

Unsanded grout is great for polished marble or stone, won’t scratch 

Prone to cracking with shrinking 

  Haze comes back and requires additional cleaning after install 

 

 

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High-performance Grouts 

 

 

These grouts are far superior to traditional grouts. They have a very fine aggregate that allows them to be used in most tiling situations. They are also fast setting and allow you to move on to the next step of remodeling much faster 

 

 

Pros Cons 

Inexpensive  Absorbs water/ darkens when wet 

Does NOT need sealing  Haze comes back and requires additional cleaning after install 

Fast setting/ can start removing first application in 20 minutes 

Can sometimes set up too fast and require a lot of elbow grease to remove grout 

Very fluid consistency and easy to pack joints 

Requires mixing; make sure to use the right quantity of water; mix full bags 

Can be used in joints 1/16” or larger   

Fine aggregate; unlikely to scratch glass or sensitive tile (always test an area) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Pre-mixed grouts 

 

 

These grouts are a tremendous advancement in the tiling industry. They are Ready-to-use, can be stored for later use easily, and have some fantastic stain and crack resistance. 

 

 

Pros Cons 

Ready-to-use  Expensive 

Does NOT need sealing  Haze can be very tough to remove on some tiles; avoid using on high gloss tiles and polished stone surfaces 

Fast setting; work in small areas at a time  Can sometimes set up too fast and require a lot of elbow grease to remove grout 

Very fluid consistency and easy to pack joints 

Very sensitive to water during the initial clean up. Too much water can easily washes out joints 

Can be used in joints 1/16” or larger  Learning curve on clean up. Technique required to efficiently install 

Fine aggregate; unlikely to scratch glass or sensitive tile (always test an area) 

 

Great color consistency from one bucket to another 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Epoxy 

 

These grouts are considered the best on the market for stain resistance and durability. Almost all commercial applications use epoxy grouts. Great long-lasting grout! 

 

 

Pros Cons 

Pre-packaged amounts for mixing; always get a consistent batch 

Expensive 

Does NOT need sealing; most stain-resistant on market 

Tough to apply. Thick consistency requiring a lot of work to pack joints 

Acts as an adhesive. Bonds all tiles together. Great for small mosaics and shower floors 

Can sometimes set up too fast and require a lot of elbow grease to remove grout 

Water does not affect joints on clean up  Haze can be very tough to remove if left to set up fully. Rough surfaced tiles can be tough to clean  

Can be used in joints 1/16” or larger  Touch-ups later require another expensive kit to mix 

Fine aggregate; unlikely to scratch glass or sensitive tile (always test an area) 

 

Great color consistency from one bucket to another 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Our recommendations 

 

● Traditional grouts: ○ Mapei Keracolor ($38)- sanded grout ⅛” joints or bigger ○ Mapei Keracolor U ($31) - unsanded grout ⅛” joints or smaller ○ Custom Polyblend ($35) - sanded grout ⅛” joints or bigger ○ Custom Polyblend ($23) - unsanded grout ⅛” joints or smaller 

● High-Performance grouts: ○ Mapei FA ($39) -  ○ Laticrete Permacolor ($26) - base color  

■ Laticrete Select - color additive ($12) ● Pre-mixed Grouts 

○ Mapei CQ ($78) ○ Bostik Quartzlock 2 ($120)  

● Epoxy: ○ Laticrete Spectralock ($89)- large 9lb unit Part A&B 

■ Laticrete colorant ($28)- Part C ○ Laticrete Spectralock ($36) - Mini unit Part A&B 

■ Laticrete colorant ($16) - Part C ○ Ardex WA ($125) includes all parts needed 

 

Helpful Tools: 

 

● Marshalltown grout float - 4” x 12” great for most applications ● Marshalltown grout float - 4” x 9” great for small spaces (niches) ● Ox Epoxy float - 4” x 9”  ● Milwaukee mud mixer - mixing  ● Mini mixing paddle  ● Ardex sponge - clean up, grouting, best sponges on the market 

○ Cheaper to buy from a distributor  ● Latex gloves 50 pk - keep thin-set off your hands! ● White scrubby pads - clean tiles (especially important to have with epoxy) ● Fila Epoxy Haze remover 

 

 

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Conclusion The tile industry & manufacturers of all bathroom related products are innovating and creating at an exceptional pace. Every year there are easier and better products to use. Bathroom Repair Tutor is dedicated to teaching and continuing to provide a resource for DIYers & contractors. We hope to provide you with the knowledge and guidance to achieve professional results with your bathroom renovations. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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