Reinforcing wire mesh

[Methodical]

Hello everyone. I have a couple more questions below regarding wire mesh. I've search the forum but have not found the answers. I've found anwers that relate to installing wire mesh in custom shower pans over plywood floors but not concrete slabs.

1. I am installing a custom shower stall in my basement on the concret slab. Do I need to place any wire mesh on the slab prior to pre-sloping the floor? I've read where I can just pre-slope directly over the concrete slab.

2. What type of reinforcing wire mesh do I use? (i.e. gauge, galvanize etc.) The forum threads (ahh - learning the forum's jargon) I've read talks about using wire mesh but does not state which type to use (i.e. gauge, galvanized etc.)

3. Where can I purchase the wire mesh? I've gone to lowes and HD and they have reinforcing wire that does not look like the ones I've seen JB use for his shower pan or curb. They look more like the wire mesh that was used in the basement concrete slab (i.e. 2"-3" squares welded together)

Please help because I am trying to get started. Everything is set up and waiting for me to begin the project.

Thanks again everyone. Peace

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[Scooter]

I don't think it is necessary to use wire on the preslope. That having been said, I have used it, and actually depending on how large a shower or how fat the homeowner is, I might use it.

On plywood I use 3.5 diamond lathe all the time, but over slabs you could also use 2x2 galvinized wire. You'll find the 2x2 in the aisle with the stucco wire and rolled fencing. I actually think it is rabbet fencing.

I think you may have a hard time holding it down on a slab, especially at the edge by the drain. I'd probably hold it back about 4-6" from the drain, to avoid it popping up.

I think the consensus is probably that you don't need it, but thats just my opinion, and if you ask my wife, I am wrong all the time.

[John Bridge]

No mesh over the slab. Just glue the mud to the slab with a slurry made from thin set. Spread the thin set and immediately dump your floor mud over it and spread it around. Pack your mud down. It'll be bonded to the slab.

[Methodical]

Thanks for the info fellas. Pease