Composite concrete shower base

[Looking4ideas]

Hi, everyone -- We're about to set a composite concrete shower base (seen here: http://www.alcove.ca/en/nosproduits.php?cat=1) and the instructions are less than detailed. It says to use a mortar base to set it -- should we use thinset? Thanks for any advice you can offer!

[Lazarus]

Their installation picture shows a rather thin bed under the base so I would assume that a "thinset morter" would be satisfactory.

[Looking4ideas]

Thanks, Lazarus. Do you think we should use modified or unmodified thinset?

[Lazarus]

I would probably use something like Home Depo's versabond. Having said that, I'm sure you could also use the "Sand Topping Mix" from the brick & block section.

Wet the floor with a sponge and underside of the receptor...lay in a bed of thinset a bit higher than the underside and place it. Add some weight to fully "bed" it and you should be good to go. Another option that I use under tubs is the spray-in expanding foam. If you go that route, use the heavy-duty stuff....set the receptor and spray it under it with some weight on it. Don't go crazy with the spray....just enough to fill and support.....

[Looking4ideas]

Thanks, Lazarus. This thing isn't hollow, though -- it has a flat bottom. And it weighs a ton! Do you think undmodified thinset, mixed to the manufacturer's specifications, will work just as well?

[Lazarus]

I see no reason why not. Mix it to the consistancy of loose "peanut butter"...just wanna be sure it fills all the voids beneath it.....