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lmjim

Kerdi in a Nutshell - Bill V. or Mongo

15 years ago

Bill/Mongo:

We will begin applying Kerdi to our newly built bathroom (1st timers). I have read many blogs on this site regarding Kerdi and just want to ensure I understand it all correctly.

Let me start off by saying, I live in California (so many kooky codes and regs.) specifically Los Angeles where codes differ from county to county and city to city. I have outlined the steps for this novice installer to follow - PLEASE CORRECT STEPS I HAVE INCORRECTLY STATED:

KERDI INSTALLATION USING KERDI SHOWER KIT (32X60)

1) Studs

2) Insulation (required in L.A. on all walls including shower)

3) Cement board (Durock, using Durock screws)

4) Ditre Set (unmodified thinset, consistency of whipped cream)

5) Kerdi

6) Wait 24 hours for Kerdi to set

7) Apply Ditre Set (unmodified thinset) to set Polished Porcelain Tiles (12x24) on walls; 4x4 on shower floor

8) Grout tiles

9) If all has gone as planned stand back and take it all in with a nice glass of Pinot in hand.

For bathroom floor and walls (outside of water area):

Walls:

1) Studs, insulation, greenboard, thinset, polished porcelain tiles 12x24, grout

Floors:

1) Joists, plywood, tar paper, mortar? thinset (modified or unmodified?), polished porcelain, grout.

Several questions remain:

1) Should I slit the paper side of the insulation prior to installing the Durock so it won't trap moisture once Kerdi is applied?

2) If I can't find Ditre Set can you recommend any other unmodified thinset that is just as good?

3) I am installing a rainshower head from ceiling (no tile on ceiling) do you suggest greenboard or Hardie on ceiling?

4) To level bathroom floor, do I use mortar prior to thinset? If so, how thick should the consistency be?

Whew!! that was a mouthful (I think more than a nutshell) but wanted to make sure I have it all covered.

Thanks sooooo much for your advice and input, it has helped a bunch and will certainly be taken. Please add any suggestions/advice that is needed.

Grazie,

L.

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