Condo 32x32 Shower Replacement

[cx]

Originally Posted by Wendy

I also wonder; if hot-mop is such a great unfailable option as most insist, why doesn't the rest of the country use it?

Blecause it's nasty and smelly and you can't do it yourself? That would be my guess.

Keep in mind that you can also do a traditional shower receptor using a PVC or CPE liner and have the same type receptor as you get with the hot-mop, only better and without the air quality hazard. I would suggest those are better than hot-mop and, done correctly, will last until the next coming of Elvis.

Plenty ways to skin your cat.

My opinion; worth price charged.

[wwinters]

I would have happily gone with the PVC / CPE liner option but the contractors were hot mop only. I did finally get two quotes from guys I liked, both coming out at the same price but using different methods.

Quote 1:
Just lists installing shower walls and floor with no description. However when we spoke he said he would use Kirdi foam kit for the wall and shower floor.

Quote 2:
Install installation chinned on shower walls and ceiling
Apply fiberglass and resin waterproofing membrane to shower pan area.
Apply waterproof paper to shower walls
Build stucco walls around shower and preparation for tile

The 2nd contractor said the fiberglass and resin is a product used to waterproof patios /decks that he feels is superior to hot mop.
Has anyone heard of this before? - did a search and see it talked about and obviously I have some questions to ask the contractor about how he ties it into the drain as well as mortar bed slope confirmation.
What are stucco walls when referring to tiling (my house is all stucco outside so I know what it is in that context)?
What does "chinned" mean?

[wwinters]

Did some deep reading -I'm always amazed at how much information you have shared with everyone over the years. I admit I didn't get all the way through "mud work hints and tips" but read enough to think I have a basic understanding of mud wall construction.

Contractor 2 clarified he is proposing mud walls, floating out the floor with mortar and polymer for the slope before laying the fiberglass. They set the drain in place prior to tying in the fiberglass-no info on how they keep the weep holes clean but I figure I can check they're open after it's put down.

I'm thinking this all looks good. The drain/fiberglass I'm taking a leap of faith since not many on here seem to have worked with the product but it sounds better than a hot mop.

Is there anything concerning I'm missing? I'm drawn to the mud wall option but also keep remembering what a nightmare they are to take out - however at our age I'm thinking it won't be us doing the job when the shower needs to be remodeled again.

[cx]

Originally Posted by Wendy

The drain/fiberglass I'm taking a leap of faith since not many on here seem to have worked with the product but it sounds better than a hot mop.

Not at all sure I agree with that, Wendy, but it's certainly up to you. I have no idea just how they'll actually do the "fiberglass" connection to the drain, nor even what they consider fiberglass.

Have you discussed with your local code compliance official to determine if he'll actually approve such a shower receptor installation?

Nothing better than mud walls if done properly.

My opinion; worth price charged.

[wwinters]

Inspectors called me back today:

As long as the materials are nonabsorbent, noncorrosive, and pass the water test it's good with them. He said it sounds like a custom-made fiberglass deal (corrected- reading my notes he didn't call it a pan as I stated originally in this post) and while not common around here, is fine.

As a bonus, he confirmed the ptrap above me must have actual straps. The HOA is welcome to keep the plywood up if they want but it doesn't meet code unless the pipes are actually strapped.