Installation Guide

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.
Curbless 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. These showers have also become increasingly popular for their aesthetic benefits, as they can integrate seamlessly with
surrounding tiled surfaces to enhance an already luxurious environment.
Accessibility and style
CURBLESS SHOWERS
DESIGN AND INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
The Schluter
®
-Shower System provides a simple and effective means of waterproofing curbless installations. The key to this is that the
KERDI waterproofing membrane is topically applied. Once the slope to the drain is established, KERDI and tile are installed, thus minimizing
the thickness of the assembly.
Curbless tiled showers rely on the slope of the floor to effectively contain water in the immediate shower area and direct water to the drain.
Given the wide range of potential configurations, it isn’t possible to address them all in this Handbook. However, the following guidelines
will assist in planning any curbless installation.
Ideally, the floor will be recessed before installing a sloped mortar bed or the KERDI-SHOWER prefabricated shower trays to allow an even
transition at the door threshold. This can be relatively straightforward in new construction and can also be accomplished in renovations.
When recessing the floor is not an option, it is necessary to provide a ramp up into the shower area. The KERDI-SHOWER prefabricated
trays and ramp can be useful tools in such applications as well. Please note that recessing the floor of a bathroom must be done in a way
that preserves the structural integrity and safety of the construction. This may require the services of a qualified design professional (e.g.,
architect, engineer, etc.).
Waterproofing must be installed in all areas subject to water exposure. Ideally, the entire floor is protected. Install KERDI over mortar beds
and Schluter
®
-Systems prefabricated EPS foam substrates. Use the DITRA or DITRA-HEAT uncoupling membrane over plywood/OSB or
concrete subfloors. All seams are sealed using KERDI-BAND. The SHOWERPROFILE-WS/-WSK splash guard profiles may be used at
the entrance of curbless showers. Secondary drainage may be required in the drying area for any overflow. Please see detail K-SHBF on
page 12 for further discussion.
Note on Accessibility Guidelines:
Various building codes and other sources, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act, include specific requirements for disabled access
in public buildings and should be consulted when applicable. Areas of interest may include degree of slope, clearance, and supporting
structures such as grab bars.
38 CURBLESS SHOWERS — Accessibility and style