Schluter®-Shower System Installation Handbook 2017 Bonded Waterproofing System for Tiled Showers, Steam Showers, Steam Rooms, and Bathtub Surrounds
Schluter -Shower System ® Bonded Waterproofing System for Tiled Showers, Steam Showers, Steam Rooms, and Bathtub Surrounds Ceramic and stone tiles are durable, easy to maintain, and hygienic, representing the ideal surface coverings, particularly in wet areas such as showers and bathtub surrounds.
CONTENTS SHOWER SELECTION GUIDE SHOWER ASSEMBLY STEAM SHOWER ASSEMBLY STEAM ROOM ASSEMBLY BATHTUB SURROUND INSTALLATION 4 6 Schluter®-KERDI waterproofing membrane 8 Schluter®-KERDI-BOARD waterproof building panel 10 Schluter®-DITRA-HEAT shower application 12 Barrier-free showers 14 16 18 Schluter®-KERDI waterproofing membrane Schluter®-KERDI-BOARD waterproof building panel Schluter®-KERDI-DS waterproofing membrane 20 Bathtub surround assembly 22 Walls and ceilings 23 Schluter -KERDI-BOAR
SHOWER SELECTION GUIDE Beautiful, durable, functional The Schluter -Shower System is versatile to fit the needs of the installer. The Shower Selection Guide describes the available options to help you determine which products will best fit your shower application. ® Waterproofing options Schluter -KERDI waterproofing membrane over solid backing • Thickness: 8 mil (0.
Curb options Schluter -KERDI-BOARD-SC curb • Waterproof and ready for tile • Lightweight, stable, and load bearing • Can be cut to length • Can be used with Schluter prefabricated shower trays or mortar base applications ® KERDI-BOARD-SC Schluter -KERDI-SHOWER-SC curb • Preformed, lightweight and easy to install • Can be cut to length • Can be used with Schluter prefabricated shower trays or mortar base applications ® KERDI-SHOWER-SC Schluter -KERDI-BOARD curb • Customiza
SHOWER ASSEMBLY Showers – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter®-KERDI waterproofing membrane K-SH-K-17 6 6 2 2 1 1 3 3 6 6 7 7 5 5 12 4 12 8b 5 5 4 8a 9b 9a 11 1 10 11 Ceramic or stone tile 8 2 Schluter SET , Schluter ALL-SET , Schluter FAST-SET or unmodified thin-set mortar 3 Schluter -KERDI waterproofing membrane 4 Schluter ®-KERDI-BAND waterproofing strips 5 Schluter ®-KERDI-KERECK-F waterproofing corners 6 Schluter ®-KERDI-SEAL-PS/-MV seals or Schluter ®-KERDI-FIX sealant a
Showers – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter®-KERDI waterproofing membrane K-SH-K-17 Substrate Preparation Areas of Application Interior showers. Over wood or concrete subfloors. Areas requiring disabled access/barrier-free applications; see detail K-SHBF on page 12. Limitations Verify that subfloor panels and solid backing are properly fastened to framing members. Any leveling of the subfloor must be done prior to installing KERDI-SHOWER-ST/-L/-LS/-SB/-SC/-SR and KERDI-BOARD-SC/-SB.
SHOWER ASSEMBLY Showers – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter -KERDI-BOARD waterproof building panel ® K-SH-KB-17 5 8 8 1 2 5 1 4 2 4 6 6 8 8 7 7 7 13 13 9b 7 9a 10b 3 10a 12 12 11 1 Ceramic or stone tile 2 Schluter SET , Schluter ALL-SET , Schluter FAST-SET or unmodified thin-set mortar 9 TM TM TM 10 3 Schluter ®-KERDI waterproofing membrane 4 Schluter®-KERDI-BOARD waterproof building panel 5 Schluter ®-KERDI-BOARD-ZT washers 6 Schluter ®-KERDI-KERECK-F waterproofing corne
Showers – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter -KERDI-BOARD waterproof building panel ® K-SH-KB-17 Substrate Preparation Areas of Application Interior showers. Over wood or concrete subfloors. Areas requiring disabled access/barrier-free applications; see detail K-SHBF on page 12. Verify that subfloor panels are properly fastened to framing members. Any leveling of the subfloor must be done prior to installing KERDI-SHOWER-ST/-L/-LS/-SB/-SC/-SR or KERDI-BOARD-SC/-SB.
SHOWER ASSEMBLY Showers – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter®-DITRA-HEAT Shower Application DH-SH-17 5 8 2 8 1 4 1 2 3 6 8 8 9 7 7 7 15 6 10a 11a 16 10b 3 11b 12 3 13 14 15 15 9 Solid backing 1 Ceramic or stone tile 13 14 Schluter ®-SHOWERPROFILE-WSK/-WSL Shower profile 2 Schluter SET , Schluter ALL-SET , TM TM 10 Drain: Schluter FAST-SET or unmodified thin-set mortar Alternative (not shown): TM 3 Schluter ®-KERDI waterproofing membrane a. Schluter ®-KERDI-DRAIN b.
Showers – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter®-DITRA-HEAT Shower Application Note: Please refer to the Schluter -DITRA-HEAT Installation Handbook for installation instructions and warranty criteria for the Schluter -DITRA-HEAT floor warming system. ® ® DH-SH-17 Safety Areas of Application Interior showers with or without curbless applications. Interior intermittent use steam showers (e.g., residential applications).
SHOWER ASSEMBLY Barrier-free Showers – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter -KERDI waterproofing membrane or Schluter -KERDI-BOARD waterproof building panel ® ® K-SHBF-17 5 8 8 1 3 1 4 2 2 6 8 8 7 6 15 7 9a 12a 3 10a 14 14 9 Drain: 2 Schluter SET , Schluter ALL-SET , TM Schluter FAST-SET or unmodified thin-set mortar 3 Schluter ®-KERDI waterproofing membrane washers ® 6 Schluter -KERDI-BAND a. Schluter ®-DITRA uncoupling membrane b. Schluter -KERDI-LINE ® b.
Barrier-free Showers – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter -KERDI waterproofing membrane or Schluter -KERDI-BOARD waterproof building panel ® ® K-SHBF-17 Areas of Application Interior showers with barrier-free access. Over wood or concrete subfloors. Limitations Certain glass tiles may not be compatible with bonded waterproof membranes and/or may require special setting materials. Consult glass tile manufacturer and Schluter -Systems for more information. Certain moisture sensitive stones, e.g.
STEAM SHOWER ASSEMBLY Intermittent Use Steam Showers – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter®-KERDI waterproofing membrane K-SSH-K-17 12 4 12 4 7 7 6 6 1 1 3 3 2 2 5 12 4 6 6 6 6 8a 4 5 12 8b 9b 9a 11 1 2 10 11 Ceramic or stone tile 8 Schluter SET , Schluter ALL-SET , Schluter FAST-SET or unmodified thin-set mortar TM a. Schluter -KERDI-DRAIN b.
Intermittent Use Steam Showers – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter®-KERDI waterproofing membrane K-SSH-K-17 Areas of Application Interior intermittent use steam showers (e.g., residential applications). Over wood or concrete subfloors. Areas requiring disabled access/barrier-free applications; see detail K-SHBF on page 12. Limitations Not intended for continuous use steam rooms (e.g., applications in spas, fitness centers, etc.); see detail K-SR on page 18.
STEAM SHOWER ASSEMBLY Intermittent Use Steam Showers – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter -KERDI-BOARD waterproof building panel ® K-SSH-KB-17 13 13 5 2 8 5 1 4 2 8 4 6 6 8 7 1 8 8 8 9b 7 9a 3 10b 11 12 10a 12 1 Ceramic or stone tile 2 Schluter SET , Schluter ALL-SET , Schluter FAST-SET or unmodified thin-set mortar 9 TM a. Schluter ®-KERDI-DRAIN b.
Intermittent Use Steam Showers – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter -KERDI-BOARD waterproof building panel ® K-SSH-KB-17 Areas of Application Substrate Preparation Interior intermittent use steam showers (e.g., residential applications). Over wood or concrete subfloors. Areas requiring disabled access/barrier-free applications; see detail K-SHBF on page 12. Verify that subfloor panels are properly fastened to framing members.
STEAM ROOM ASSEMBLY Continuous Use Steam Rooms – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter -KERDI-DS waterproofing membrane ® K-SR-17 13 1 2 3 7 5 4 3 6 11 8 9 12 1 Ceramic or stone tile 2 Schluter SET , Schluter ALL-SET , Schluter FAST-SET or unmodified thin-set mortar 8 TM Schluter ®-KERDI-DRAIN 4 Schluter ®-KERDI-DS waterproofing membrane Schluter ®-KERDI-BAND waterproofing strips 5 Schluter ®-KERDI-KERECK-F waterproofing corners 6 Schluter ®-KERDI-SEAL-PS seals or Schluter ®-KERDI-FIX sealan
Continuous Use Steam Rooms – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter -KERDI-DS waterproofing membrane ® K-SR-17 Areas of Application Substrate Preparation Interior continuous use steam rooms (e.g., applications in spas, fitness centers, etc.). Over wood or concrete subfloors. Areas requiring disabled access/barrier-free applications; see detail K-SHBF on page 12. Verify that subfloor panels and solid backing are properly fastened to framing members.
BATHTUB SURROUND Bathtub Surround – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter -KERDI waterproofing membrane or Schluter -KERDI-BOARD waterproof building panel ® ® K-TS-17 7 4 7 2 3b 3a 1 9 5 1 5 7 7 2 7 7 6 10 8 8 10 5 6 5 3b 1 Ceramic or stone tile 3b 4 Schluter ®-KERDI-BOARD-ZT 8 Schluter ®-KERDI-FIX 5 Schluter ®-KERDI-BAND 9 Solid backing washers 2 Schluter SET , Schluter ALL-SET , TM Schluter FAST-SET or unmodified thin-set mortar TM 3 Waterproofing: waterproofing strips 6 Schlu
Bathtub surround – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter -KERDI waterproofing membrane or Schluter -KERDI-BOARD waterproof building panel ® ® K-TS-17 Areas of Application Substrate Preparation Interior bathtub surrounds. When using KERDI waterproofing membrane, verify that solid backing is properly fastened to framing members. Limitations Certain glass tiles may not be compatible with bonded waterproof membranes and/or may require special setting materials.
INSTALLATION Walls and Ceilings Please refer to Schluter -Systems' installation videos in addition to reading the instructions below. ® Shower walls may be made waterproof using KERDI/KERDI-DS or KERDI-BOARD prior to construction of the shower base. The waterproofing is carried to the height of the showerhead (at minimum). KERDI or KERDI-BOARD application on ceiling is optional for showers. For continuous-use steam rooms, KERDI-DS is applied to walls and ceilings.
INSTALLATION Schluter -KERDI-BOARD-SN Shower Niche ® Please refer to Schluter -Systems' installation videos in addition to reading the instructions below. ® The exact order of installation can vary from that shown below, provided all fastening and waterproofing measures are performed properly. The following represents Schluter -Systems' recommendations for simple and reliable installation.
INSTALLATION Shower Base with Schluter -KERDI-DRAIN ® Please refer to Schluter -Systems' installation videos in addition to reading the instructions below. ® Preparation Locate and cut a hole in the substrate for the drain outlet and coupling to the waste line using the template provided. Limit the diameter of the hole to 5" (125 mm) maximum to ensure proper support for the tile assembly. Note: Fill in box-outs in concrete floors with dry-pack mortar or concrete.
Clamping Ring Drain Installed: If a clamping ring drain is installed, replace with KERDI-DRAIN or convert using the KERDI-DRAIN adaptor kit. 1 Remove the clamping ring from the installed drain and save the bolts. Align the bolt pattern of the clamping ring with the adaptor ring and punch the matching inserts through the adaptor ring. 2 Apply a 1/4" - 3/8" (6 mm - 10 mm) bead of KERDI-FIX to the installed drain flange.
Clamping Ring Drain Installed: If a clamping ring drain is installed, replace with KERDI-DRAIN or convert using the KERDI-DRAIN adaptor kit. 1 Remove the clamping ring from the installed drain and save the bolts. Align the bolt pattern of the clamping ring with the adaptor ring and punch the matching inserts through the adaptor ring. 2 Apply a 1/4" - 3/8" (6 mm - 10 mm) bead of KERDI-FIX to the installed drain flange.
Waterproofing the shower base The KERDI or KERDI-DS waterproofing membranes can be installed over the KERDI-SHOWER-ST tray immediately or over a mortar bed as soon as the mortar bed can be walked upon using Schluter SET , ALL-SET , FAST-SET , or unmodified thin-set mortar. A pre-cut section of KERDI matching the dimensions of the tray is included with the KERDI-SHOWER-ST for convenience. The thin-set mortar must be mixed to a fairly fluid consistency, but still able to hold a notch.
INSTALLATION Shower base with Schluter -KERDI-LINE ® Please refer to Schluter -Systems installation videos in addition to reading the instructions below. ® Preparation Locate and cut a hole in the substrate for the drain outlet and coupling to the waste line using the template provided. Limit the diameter of the hole to 5" (125 mm) maximum to ensure proper support for the tile assembly. Note: Fill in box-outs in concrete floors with dry-pack mortar or concrete.
Schluter -KERDI-LINE with Schluter -SHOWER-L/-LS prefabricated tray ® ® 1 Any leveling of the floor must be done prior to the installation of the shower tray. If necessary, cut the tray to size prior to application. The shower base can also be extended beyond the tray using dry-pack mortar, which is in turn covered with the KERDI membrane. 2 Cut the flat end of the KERDI-SHOWER-L/-LS tray to fit around the channel support.
Schluter -KERDI-BOARD-SC curb and Schluter -KERDI-SHOWER-SC/-SR curb or ramp ® ® If necessary, cut the KERDI-BOARD-SC to length using a utility knife and KERDI-SHOWER-SC/-SR using a handsaw. 1 Apply Schluter SET , ALL-SET , FAST-SET , TM TM TM or unmodified thin-set mortar to the floor and to the edge of the shower base and walls using a 1/4" x 3/8" (6 mm x 10 mm) square- or U-notched trowel. 2 Press the curb or ramp firmly into place.
Grate assembly Grates A and B 1 Apply Schluter SET , ALL-SET , FASTTM TM SET , or unmodified thin-set mortar to the underside of the grate frame and place it in the channel body ensuring full coverage and support of the frame. Insert the foam spacers in the grate frame to reinforce it during the remainder of the installation.
Optional Schluter -SHOWERPROFILE-S/-R system profiles ® Select SHOWERPROFILE-S according to shower base tile thickness and the height and length of the wall area to be covered. Select SHOWERPROFILE-R according to the height of the wall area to be covered. SHOWERPROFILE-S 1 Measure the height of the area to be covered at the lowest point. Next, measure the length of the area and mark the profile where it is to be cut at both ends.
Schluter -SHOWERPROFILE-WS ® SHOWERPROFILE-WS can be used in conjunction with tiles that are 5/16" (8 mm) thick or greater. 1 Install the tile covering up to where the profile will be installed. 2 Apply a sufficient amount of thin-set mortar to this area and to the back of the profile to achieve full coverage. Press the profile into the mortar until its surface is flush with the tile. 3 Set adjacent rows of tile, leaving a space of approximately 1/16" - 1/8" (1.5 - 3 mm) between the profile and tile.
INSTALLATION Bathtub surround Please refer to Schluter -Systems' installation videos in addition to reading the instructions below. ® The waterproofing is carried to the height of the showerhead (at minimum). KERDI or KERDI-BOARD application on ceiling is optional for bathtub surrounds. Schluter -KERDI over solid backing ® The thin-set mortar used for bonding KERDI to walls and ceilings must be appropriate for the substrate and must penetrate and engage the membrane fleece.
Schluter -KERDI-BOARD over wood or metal framing ® Grab bars or other heavy objects must be anchored in the structure or solid blocking behind KERDI-BOARD. Installation instructions for other applications of KERDI-BOARD (e.g. fully embedded or spot-bonded over solid backing) can be found in the 12.1 Schluter -KERDI-BOARD technical data sheet. ® 1 KERDI-BOARD can be mounted vertically or horizontally on framing with appropriate screws (e.g.
BARRIER-FREE SHOWERS Accessibility and style As our population ages, there is increasing demand for accessible living spaces. Tiled showers typically feature curbs to retain water in the stall, which can make entry difficult for those with limited mobility, including individuals who need the assistance of wheelchairs. Barrier-free tiled showers eliminate the use of a curb and rely on the slope of the floor to keep water inside the stall, thus improving accessibility.
THE WATERPROOF BATHROOM Security and utility Bathrooms are a primary focus of today’s building and remodeling projects and are becoming more and more luxurious, complete with steam showers, oversized bathtubs, and the latest in fixtures and lighting. As such, tiled showers, bathtub surrounds, floors, walls, and vanities are in high demand. Tile and stone are beautiful, durable, and available in a wide range of formats, colors, and textures, allowing limitless design options.
PROFILES Details make the difference Ceramic and stone tiles are durable, easy to maintain, and hygienic, representing the ideal surface coverings for showers and bathtub surrounds. Exposed tile edges, however, are unsightly and prone to cracking and chipping.
TILE SELECTION CONSIDERATIONS Discussion of different tile types in shower applications The Schluter -Shower System is an integrated family of products that creates a sealed system for showers, steam showers, steam rooms, and bathtub surrounds. The Schluter -KERDI/-KERDI-DS membranes and Schluter -KERDI-BOARD substrates are waterproof and provide a bonding surface for tile coverings. Typical covering materials include ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone tiles.
Natural Stone Natural stone tiles are a product of nature and have various characteristics that provide beauty and features not found in manufactured tile products. According to the Dimension Stone Design Manual published by the Marble Institute of America (MIA), selection of stone for a shower is critical since the impact of water on certain stones (e.g. polished marble, limestone, etc.) may cause deterioration (e.g., surface dulling, warpage, etc.) over time.
THIN-SET FACTS Discussion on thin-set mortars and Schluter®-KERDI installations Schluter -Systems offers thin-set mortars designed for use with Schluter membranes and boards. All Schluter -Systems’ thin-set mortars, including the ALL-SET and FAST-SET modified varieties, can be used to set tile over Schluter -DITRA, DITRA-HEAT, KERDI, KERDI-BOARD, etc. non absorptive substrates. If Schluter thin-set mortars are not used, we require unmodified thin-set mortar when setting ceramic or porcelain tile over KERDI.
QUESTION: Can Schluter ALL-SET and FAST-SET modified thin-set mortars be used to set tile over Schluter boards and membranes? TM TM ANSWER: Yes. All Schluter thin-set mortars, including the ALL-SET and FAST-SET DITRA-HEAT, KERDI, KERDI-BOARD, etc. non absorptive substrates. ® TM TM modified varieties can be used to set tile over DITRA, QUESTION: How is this possible? ANSWER: The key is predictability.
TESTING, LISTINGS, & APPROVALS Products and system evaluation Schluter®-Systems is committed to providing reliable installation systems for tile and stone. As part of this commitment, we have invested considerable resources in testing our products and obtaining listings and approvals through various certification organizations to provide our customers and local code officials with relevant data that supports the efficacy of our system.
MOLD The importance of mold control The term “mold” is used to describe visible fungal growth. Mildew is another common term which refers to the type of fungi found growing on window sills and in bathrooms. Fungi are everywhere in our environment and are found both indoors and outdoors. However, the type and amount found in the home can be an important health issue. Understanding how to effectively control mold growth is very important. What is Mold? Fungi are different from plants and animals.
VAPOR The importance of water vapor management Why is water vapor management important? It is important to consider that water exists as both liquid and vapor in showers, and must be managed in both forms. The prime example of this is the steam shower. Steam showers that are not designed to manage water vapor have caused mold growth in wall cavities, rot in wood framing, and damage to moisture-sensitive wall coverings on the opposite side of the stud cavities.
PRODUCT & ORDERING INFO Ordering information for the Schluter®-Shower System and DITRA components outlined in this Handbook is located below. For technical support, our Illustrated Price List, or additional information on our complete product line, please call 800-472-4588 (USA) or 800-667-8746 (Canada), or visit our comprehensive website at www.schluter.com. Schluter®-KERDI KERDI is a pliable sheet-applied polyethylene waterproofing membrane and vapor retarder that guarantees uniform thickness.
Schluter®-KERDI-DRAIN KERDI-DRAIN is a floor drain designed with a sloped, integrated bonding flange to provide a secure connection to KERDI and other bonded waterproof membranes at the top of the assembly. Unique Features and Benefits: - Appropriate for both mortar bed and KERDI-SHOWER-ST tray installations.
Schluter®-KERDI-DRAIN - Adaptor Kits Residential KERDI-DRAIN ADAPTOR KITS are used to convert traditional clamping ring drains to integrated bonding flange drains when removal of the clamping ring drain is not practical.
Schluter®-KERDI-LINE KERDI-LINE is a low profile linear floor drain specifically designed for bonded waterproofing assemblies. KERDI-LINE can be installed adjacent to walls or at intermediate locations in showers, wet rooms, and other applications that require waterproofing and drainage. The floor can be sloped on a single plane to KERDI-LINE, which enables the use of large-format tiles and creates interesting design opportunities.
Schluter®-KERDI Prefabricated Substrates Prefabricated substrates are made of expanded polystyrene foam, for use in conjunction with the KERDI waterproofing membrane. KERDI-BOARD prefabricated substrates are made of KERDI-BOARD, and are waterproof and ready for tile. A pre-cut section of KERDI matching the dimensions of the tray is included with the KERDI-SHOWERST for convenience.
Schluter -Systems Shower Profiles ® 3/8" H = 3/16" (5 mm) or (10 mm) 3/8" (10 mm) = H2 H = 1/2" (12.5 mm) 2% = H1 =L SHOWERPROFILE-S 25/32" (20 mm) =H 7/8" (22mm) / 1-1/4" (32 mm) H = variable SHOWERPROFILE-S tapered edging profile Item No. SPSA 50 EB/120 SPSA 50 EB/160 SPSA 50 EB/200 SPSB 100 EB/120 SPSB 100 EB/160 SPSB 100 EB/200 SPSB 125 EB/120 SPSB 125 EB/160 SPSB 125 EB/200 H 3/16" (5 mm) 3/16" (5 mm) 3/16" (5 mm) 3/8" (10 mm) 3/8" (10 mm) 3/8" (10 mm) 1/2" (12.5 mm) 1/2" (12.5 mm) 1/2" (12.
Schluter ®-KERDI-SHOWER-KIT The KERDI-SHOWER-KIT is an all-inclusive package containing the components required to create a watertight shower assembly without a mortar bed.
Schluter ®-KERDI-BOARD KERDI-BOARD is a multifunctional tile substrate and building panel, which can also be used for creating bonded waterproofing assemblies with tile coverings. It consists of an extruded polystyrene foam panel, with a special reinforcement material on both sides and fleece webbing for effective anchoring in thin-set mortar. The boards are simply cut to size with a utility knife. The gridlines, which are printed on the surface, are helpful for neat and quick cuts and installation.
Schluter Thin-set Mortar ® Specifically formulated for use with Schluter membranes and boards, Schluter thin-set mortars are sag-resistant, smooth and creamy, and easy to handle and spread. They are suitable for use with ceramic, porcelain, and stone tile, including large and heavy tile. ® ® Schluter SET is a premium unmodified thin-set mortar. SET meets the requirements of ANSI A118.1T. TM TM Schluter ALL-SET is a specialized modified thin-set mortar. ALL-SET meets the requirements of ANSI A118.
WARRANTY Schluter ®-Shower System 10-Year Limited Warranty COVERAGE AND CONDITIONS: Subject to the conditions and limitations as stated hereinafter, Schluter -Systems* warrants that the Schluter -Shower System (the “Products”)** will meet all composition and performance criteria for a period of ten (10) years from the date of purchase only when the Products are used and installed in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Schluter -Shower System Installation Handbook and industry standard guidelines
© 2017 Schluter Systems L.P. 06/2017 552420 Schluter Systems L.P. • 194 Pleasant Ridge Road, Plattsburgh, NY 12901-5841 • Tel.: 800-472-4588 • Fax: 800-477-9783 Schluter Systems (Canada) Inc. • 21100 chemin Ste-Marie, Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC H9X 3Y8 • Tel.: 800-667-8746 • Fax: 877-667-2410 www.schluter.
