Schluter®-Shower System Installation Handbook Bonded Waterproofing System for Tiled Showers, Steam Showers, Steam Rooms, and Bathtub Surrounds 10/2023
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 4 6 Schluter®-KERDI waterproofing membrane 8 Schluter®-KERDI-BOARD waterproof building panel 10 Schluter®-DITRA-HEAT shower application 12 Curbless showers 16 Schluter®-KERDI waterproofing membrane and Schluter®-KERDI-BOARD waterproof building panel STEAM ROOM ASSEMBLY BATHTUB SURROUND INSTALLATION CURBLESS SHOWERS THE WATERPROOF BATHROOM FINISHING TILE SELECTION CONSIDERATIONS THIN-SET FACTS 18 Schluter®-KERDI-DS
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.
Transition options KERDI-BOARD-SC Schluter®-KERDI-BOARD-SC prefabricated 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-SHOWER-R Schluter®-KERDI-SHOWER-R ramp • Use to create accessible, curbless showers • Adheres to the ADA's slope ratio • Waterproof and ready for tile • Lightweight, stable, and load bearing • Can be cut to leng
SHOWER ASSEMBLY Showers – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter®-KERDI waterproofing membrane K-SH-K 6 6 2 2 1 1 3 3 6 6 7 7 5 5 4 12 12 8b 5 5 4 8a 9b 9a 13a ® 6 Schluter -KERDI-SEAL-PS/-MV seals or Schluter®-KERDI-FIX sealant and bonding compound 7 Solid backing Alternative (not shown): • Mortar bed 10 Schluter ®-KERDI-BOARD-SC curb Alternatives (not shown): • Schluter ®-KERDI-BOARD waterproof building panel • Built-up curb ® 12 Schluter -DILEX profile (optional) TICK &S • EL & STIC
Showers – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter®-KERDI waterproofing membrane K-SH-K Areas of Application Substrate Preparation • Interior showers. • Over wood or concrete subfloors. See the Base information under Requirements (below) for details. • Areas requiring disabled access/curbless applications; see detail K-SHBF on page 12. • Verify that subfloor panels and solid backing are properly fastened to framing members.
SHOWER ASSEMBLY Showers – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter®-KERDI-BOARD waterproof building panel K-SH-KB 5 8 8 1 2 5 1 4 2 4 6 6 8 8 7 7 7 13 13 9b 7 9a 10b 10a 2 Schluter SET®, Schluter ALL-SET®, Schluter FAST-SET® or unmodified thin-set mortar Schluter ®-KERDI-BOARD waterproof building panel 5 Schluter ®-KERDI-BOARD-ZT washers 6 Schluter ®-KERDI-BAND waterproofing strips 7 Schluter ®-KERDI-KERECK-F waterproofing corners 8 Schluter ®-KERDI-SEAL-PS/-MV seals or Schluter®-KERDI-FI
Showers – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter®-KERDI-BOARD waterproof building panel K-SH-KB Areas of Application Substrate Preparation • Interior showers. • Over wood or concrete subfloors. See the Base information under Requirements (below) for details. • Areas requiring disabled access/curbless applications; see detail K-SHBF on page 12. • V erify that subfloor panels are properly fastened to framing members.
SHOWER ASSEMBLY Showers – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter®-DITRA-HEAT Shower Application DH-SH 5 8 2 8 1 3 4 1 2 6 8 8 9 7 7 16 15 14 14 Schluter ®-DITRA-HEAT/-PS or 10 Drain: 3 Schluter ®-KERDI waterproofing membrane 4 Schluter ®-KERDI-BOARD waterproof building panel 5 Schluter ®-KERDI-BOARD-ZT/-ZS washers and screws 6 Schluter ®-KERDI-BAND Alternative (not shown): • Schluter ®-KERDI-LINE-VARIO 11 Base: a. Schluter ®-KERDI-SHOWER-T/-TS/-TT 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 Areas of Application • • • Interior showers with or without curbless applications. Interior intermittent use steam showers (e.g., residential applications). See detail K-SSH in the Schluter®-Shower System Installation Handbook for more information.
SHOWER ASSEMBLY Curbless Showers – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter®-KERDI waterproofing membrane or Schluter®-KERDI-BOARD waterproof building panel K-SHBF 5 8 8 1 3 1 4 2 2 6 8 8 7 7 9a 12a 3 10a 14 • TICK &S Wood or concrete subfloor 11 Schluter ®-KERDI-SHOWER-R ramp 7 Schluter ®-KERDI-KERECK-F waterproofing corners 8 Schluter ®-KERDI-SEAL-PS/-MV seals or Schluter ®-KERDI-FIX sealant and bonding compound Alternative to uncoupling membrane (not shown): • Schluter ®-KERDI waterproofing memb
Curbless Showers – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter®-KERDI waterproofing membrane or Schluter®-KERDI-BOARD waterproof building panel K-SHBF Areas of Application Solid Backing Materials • • • • • • Interior showers with curbless access. Over wood or concrete subfloors. See the Base information under Requirements (below) for details. Limitations • • • ertain glass tiles may not be compatible with bonded waterproof membranes C and/or may require special setting materials.
SHOWER ASSEMBLY Curbless Showers – Ceramic or stone tile Recessed Curbless Shower K-SHCR 2 3 4 5 1 6 8 9 10 7 1 Schluter SET®, Schluter ALL-SET®, Schluter FAST-SET or unmodified thin-set mortar 5 Schluter ®-KERDI-SHOWER tray 9 Recessed ledgers 6 Recessed subfloor panel 10 Blocking ® 2 Solid backing 7 Existing subfloor 3 Schluter ®-KERDI 8 Schluter ®-DITRA/-XL S • TICK &S PEEL & SHOWER ASSEMBLY — Recessed Curbless EL & STICK PE • 14 Alternative to uncoupling membrane (not shown): •
Curbless Showers – Ceramic or Porcelain Tile Recessed Curbless Shower K-SHCR Areas of Application • Interior showers with curbless access. • Over wood subfloors. See the Base information under Requirements (below) for details. Limitations • C ertain 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 or Schluter®-KERDI-BOARD waterproof building panel K-SSH 14 14 6 5 9 8 8 2 1 3 1 4 2 6 7 14 6 8 8 8 8 7 14 10b 10a 11b 11a 13 15b 12 15a 6 13 12 6 1 Ceramic or stone tile 9 Solid backing 13 Wood or concrete subfloor 2 Schluter SET®, Schluter ALL-SET®, Schluter FAST-SET® or unmodified thin-set mortar 10 Drain: a. Schluter ®-KERDI-DRAIN b.
Intermittent Use Steam Showers – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter®-KERDI waterproofing membrane or Schluter®-KERDI-BOARD waterproof building panel K-SSH Areas of Application • Interior intermittent use steam showers (e.g., residential applications). • Over wood or concrete subfloors. See the Base information under Requirements (below) for details. • Areas requiring disabled access/curbless applications; see detail K-SHBF on page 12. Limitations • N ot intended for continuous use steam rooms (e.g.
STEAM ROOM ASSEMBLY Continuous Use Steam Rooms – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter®-KERDI-DS waterproofing membrane K-SR 13 1 2 3 7 5 4 3 6 11 8 14a 9 14b 4 Alternative (not shown): • Schluter ®-KERDI-LINE • Schluter ®-KERDI-LINE-VARIO 3 Schluter ®-KERDI-DS waterproofing membrane 9 Mortar bed 4 Schluter ®-KERDI-BAND waterproofing strips 10 Schluter ®-KERDI-BOARD-SC curb Suitable sealant (see page 19 for more information) 7 Solid backing 14 Uncoupling membrane: EL & STICK PE a.
Continuous Use Steam Rooms – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter®-KERDI-DS waterproofing membrane K-SR Areas of Application • Interior continuous use steam rooms (e.g., applications in spas, fitness centers, etc.). • Over wood or concrete subfloors. See the Base information under Requirements (below) for details. • Areas requiring disabled access/curbless applications; see detail K-SHBF on page 12.
BATHTUB SURROUND Bathtub Surround – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter®-KERDI waterproofing membrane or Schluter®-KERDI-BOARD waterproof building panel K-TS 4 7 7 2 3b 3a 1 9 5 1 5 7 7 2 7 7 6 10 8 5 10 6 5 3b 11b 6 5 11a 6 Schluter ®-KERDI-BAND waterproofing strips 3 Waterproofing: a. Schluter ®-KERDI waterproofing membrane b.
Bathtub surround – Ceramic or stone tile Schluter®-KERDI waterproofing membrane or Schluter®-KERDI-BOARD waterproof building panel K-TS Areas of Application Substrate Preparation • Interior bathtub surrounds. • W hen using KERDI waterproofing membrane, verify that solid backing is properly fastened to framing members. Limitations • C ertain 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 Schluter®-KERDI-SHOWER-T/-TS/-TT shower trays and 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 continuous 1/4" - 3/8" (6 mm - 10 mm) bead of KERDI-FIX to the installed drain flange.
No Plumbing Access: When there is no access to the plumbing from below, KERDI-DRAIN is installed to the appropriate height and connected to the waste line prior to the installation of the shower base. 1 Measure and cut a section of pipe to connect KERDI-DRAIN to the odor trap using the foam spacers included with the drain as a spacer. When installing KERDI-DRAIN over wood substrates, the minimum thickness of mortar required at the perimeter of the bonding flange is 1" (25 mm).
INSTALLATION Schluter®-KERDI-DRAIN-H Horizontal Outlet Drain Please refer to Schluter®-Systems' installation videos in addition to reading the instructions below. Preparation Plywood, OSB or concrete subfloor must be clean, even, and load bearing. Any leveling must be done prior to compensation board and shower tray installation. 1 Dry fit the Schluter®-KERDI-SHOWER-CB compensation board and KERDI-SHOWER tray. If necessary, cut the tray and compensation board to size.
Schluter®-KERDI-BOARD-SB bench ® ® ® 1 Apply Schluter SET , ALL-SET , FAST-SET , or unmodified thin-set mortar to the floor and walls using a 1/4" x 3/8" (6 mm x 10 mm) or 3/8" x 3/8" (10 mm x 10 mm) square- or U-notched trowel. 2 Press the bench firmly into place and check the underside and backsides to ensure that full coverage and support are achieved. Verify that the slope on the surface of the bench is directed toward the shower base.
® ® ® 4 Apply Schluter SET , ALL-SET , FAST-SET , or unmodified thin-set mortar to the bonding flange and recess area in the tray with the KERDI-TROWEL or a 1/4" x 3/16" (6 mm x 5 mm) V-notched trowel. The thin-set mortar must be mixed to a fairly fluid consistency, but still able to hold a notch. Embed the KERDI collar membrane in the bond coat and work the membrane onto the KERDI-DRAIN bonding flange and shower base to ensure full coverage and remove air pockets.
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.
Schluter®-KERDI-LINE with Schluter®-SHOWER-LT/-LTS 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. of the KERDI-SHOWER-LT/-LTS tray to fit around the channel support.
Schluter®-KERDI-BOARD-SC curb and Schluter®-KERDI-SHOWER-R ramp If necessary, cut the KERDI-BOARD-SC to length using a utility knife and KERDI-SHOWER-R using a handsaw. ® ® ® 1 Apply Schluter SET , ALL-SET , FAST-SET , 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) or 3/8" x 3/8" (10 mm x 10 mm) square- or U-notched trowel. 2 Press the curb or ramp firmly into place.
Grate assembly Note: The tabs of the drain strainer must be installed in the KERDI-LINE channel body v-grooves to ensure proper drainage. Grate ® ® ® 1 Apply Schluter SET , ALL-SET , FAST-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.
INSTALLATION Shower base with Schluter®-KERDI-LINE-VARIO Please refer to Schluter®-Systems installation videos in addition to reading the instructions below. Preparation The substrate must be clean, even, and load bearing. Any leveling must be done prior to shower tray installation. Locate and cut a hole in the substrate for the drain outlet and coupling to the waste pipe using the template provided [3-1/2" (88.9 mm)]. Limit the diameter of the hole to 4" (101.
Plumbing Access: When there is no access to the plumbing from below, the flange must be set and connected to the waste line simultaneously according to Step 6. When there is access to the plumbing from below and the waste pipe can be connected after installing KERDI-LINE-VARIO, you may skip Step 6. Note: If the KERDI-LINE-VARIO flange is installed in advance of the shower tray, the construction cover is used to protect the flange and KERDI collar from any damage that may happen on the work site.
Channel and Grate 12 Measure and cut the channel and grate 13 Press the stainless steel end cap(s) to the 14 Center and attach the black downspout to 15 Dry fit and mark where the channel will be 16 Using a notched trowel, liberally apply thin- 17 Embed the channel into the thin-set mortar to the desired length so that the drain opening is positioned over the flange opening, making sure to leave a 1/16" - 1/8" (1.5 - 3 mm) joint between the channel and the tile.
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.
CURBLESS 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. 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.
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.
FINISHING Details make the difference The Schluter®-Shower System provides proper moisture management to protect surrounding building materials and reduce the potential for efflorescence and mold growth in the system. Once the system is installed the timeless beauty of ceramic and stone tiles can bring a relaxing spa feeling home. Schluter® shelves and profiles provide elegant solutions to finish the tile application.
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 FASTSET® modified varieties, can be used to set tile over Schluter®-DITRA, DITRA-HEAT, KERDI, KERDI-BOARD 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? ANSWER: Yes. All Schluter® thin-set mortars, including the ALL-SET® and FAST-SET® modified varieties can be used to set tile over DITRA, DITRA-HEAT, KERDI, KERDI-BOARD non absorptive substrates. 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.
WARRANTIES Schluter ®-Shower System 10-Year Limited Warranty LIMITED WARRANTY COVERAGE: Subject to the conditions and limitations as stated in this Schluter®-Shower System 10-Year Limited Warranty (the “Limited Warranty”), Schluter Systems warrants that its Schluter®-Shower System (the “Products”) will be free from manufacturing defects and will perform as described in the Schluter®Shower System Installation Handbook and Schluter® Waterproofing Membranes Technical Data Sheet (collectively, the “Written Mate
Schluter®-Systems Lifetime Thin-Set System Extended Limited Warranty LIMITED WARRANTY COVERAGE: Subject to the conditions and limitations as stated in this Lifetime Thin-Set System Extended Limited Warranty (the “Limited Warranty”), Schluter Systems warrants that a Thin-Set System (defined hereafter) will be free from manufacturing defects and will perform as described in the applicable installation handbook(s) and/or technical data sheet(s) (collectively, the “Written Materials1” ) for the lifetime (define
Notes : NOTES 53
Notes : 54 NOTES
Notes : NOTES 55
© 2023 Schluter Systems L.P. and affiliates. All Rights Reserved. 10/2023 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 Schluter.
