We are planning to finish our basement and DH wants to install a modular combo steam-shower-tub unit in the bath. Plumbing is already roughed in. Has anyone had any experience with these units, installation and/or use? Most, if not all, are made in China and we would not be surprised if all are made by the same company, just with different names slapped on them, because they are eeriely similar. Some "brands" are: Ariel, Ariel Platinum, Steam Planet, EAGO, Aquapeudics, Royal. Price ranges from $1,200 - $5,000+. We realize moisture and ventilation will need to be seriously addressed.

We are renovating our master bathroom and are also considering a modular steam shower, so I hope those with experience will chime in. We did learn that you can mix and match enclosure mfrs. and steam generator mfrs, e.g., put our preferred Thermasol generator in with an enclosure from a mfr. which typically includes a different mfr's steam generator.

Is there a specific slope for ceiling or just enough so water will run down sides? 2" per running foot, but it doesn't all have to be in one direction. I've done steam showers and rooms before that pitched from the center to both sides (kind of like the roof pitch on a house) and I've done one where it went from a centerpoint, and pitched to all FOUR sides. any specific type of tile to stay away from? natural stone. Other than that, while porcelain will most often be recommended due to it's almost nonexistent absorbsion rating, any kind of ceramic tile will work. Also has anyone used glass block? You really shouldn't being that there's no way to waterproof that wall (the mortar joints would not be watertight, nor would it be where the glass block hits other surfaces) as I only have one window that opens. While opening windows are discouraged in conventional showers, they're considered a no go in a steam shower, due to the fact that there's way too much chance for water intrusion into the wall. I've done one steam shower where there was a fixed window, and even that was covered in Interlux boat paint to make sure it was waterproof. Then, both the Kerdi membrane directly under the tile, as well as the tile itself was sealed to the painted surface.

Creative Tile, I also have heard good things.....my plan has totally changed, you can search my name and find my design thread. I'm now doing a 48" neo angle. I want to go USG because they make the custom pan with the drain where I want it, and trimming these pans will obviously create some strange aesthetics at change of plane w/ wall. Problem is, no one wants to sell me one! Here in NJ, only distributor within 90 minutes are HD stores. I call them, and they don't know the custom pan exists. Local tile guy has Wedi, but very pricey, and it doesn't seem ideal for a neoangle curb, also no custom pan. I'm assuming you may have a connection with someone who will sell me one? Online USG email support for neo angle sent me back to uninformed home depot, and a general instruction which doesn't address how to wrap the 135 deg. angle. I'm going to call them one last time, if not I'll take my chances with kerdi membrane with a mud deck. 1 question on the USG product...if i go with the new ultralight foam, does it require full membrane, or just the seams? If it requires full membrane, should I just use fiberrock as it will probably be much cheaper? Any ideas how to do the 135 neoangle curb, I'm probably just going to borrow kerdi methods over at johnbridge, and use the sealant for any questionable corners . Thanks so much for your help!