Mortar For Bathtub Install

Thinset tile mortar.

Mortar for bathtub install.

With the smooth side of a 1 4 inch notched trowel spread enough mortar for one sheet. Add water and. Whether you are installing a regular acrylic bathtub that doubles as a shower unit or a larger two person jacuzzi most bathtubs require a mortar base for the tub to rest on. The mortar should be evened out and about 2 inches thick on all sides.

Trial fit the tub in the tub alcove. Use thin set mortar when installing cement backerboard. Thinset tile mortar has a smooth slippery consistency similar to mud. The mortar conforms to the contours of the tub and when it sets it prevents the tub from moving and supports the weight.

Set the tub flat on the floor and position a level on top of the tub. It should not be runny but rather stand up on it s own. The tub is set and like with all other mortar installations filled with water for 72 hours to form the mortar to the tub. Thinset mortar is your default tile mortar for most indoor and outdoor applications.

Thin set dries slowly allowing you to fix and readjust backerboard sheets as needed. For extra waterproofing install a shower pan liner between layers of mortar before laying the shower pan on top. Unsupported fiberglass and acrylic tubs tend to flex under the weight of water plus bathers which can be bad news in terms of your drain staying connected and the tub base remaining solid and free of cracks. The tub should be level in all directions.

If the tub is not level use a floor leveling mortar a form or material suggested by the tub manufacturer to level the floor under the tub. Mix the mortar so that it can support the tub. Pour the mortar on the subfloor so that it s a few inches from the drain opening. It is applied to the substrate with a notched trowel.

Unless you re installing a cast iron bathtub you are going to need a mortar bed to support your tub base. Then embed the tub into the mortar. Custom mortar mix you can make your own mortar if you want to save money. Both regular thinset mortar and floor leveling compound are suitable.

Screw the shower pan rim into the wall studs using 1 1 4 inch screws through the pre drilled holes.