Hello, our bathroom project has re-started with a new
contractor, and so far it is proceeding swimmingly, smoothly, pleasantly... Thanks to all who helped me while I was having
problems with the previous contractor.

My question has to do with the previous contractor, TCNA, and
other organizations that put out standards for the tile profession. The previous contractor is willing to meet
with us so that we can discuss a partial refund of the amount we had paid them
before they quit the job. I made a list
of the 7 biggest problems that occurred, and I’d like to reference the TCNA
handbook text, or other standards, that corresponds to each concern if possible.

I have the 2016 TCNA handbook, but I’m not sure if I’m
referencing the right sections, or of there are other materials I should be
using instead. We are capturing steam (not installing a generator), but otherwise building it the same as a real steam shower. If there are any experts
who are willing to help me, I’d really appreciate it. Thank you!

(Note: I have pictures of each problem, but I don’t
want to overwhelm this post with a bunch of pictures)

Problem #1: Contractor skipped the step of creating a
pre-slope under shower pan liner.

When project re-started and liner was removed, we confirmed that
it was just placed on the subfloor.

TCNA handbook, page 266-267, SR 614-16: There’s a diagram showing that a pre-slope is
supposed to be created, but in the paragraphs, I don’t see any language that
corresponds to the diagram.

Problem #2: Holes in pan liner

Holes on top and inside of curb due to contractor screwing
Hardi board pieces into curb through liner.

TCNA handbook, page 39:
“Membrane cuts and penetrations:
Membranes must be protected to prevent punctures resulting from traffic
on the membrane before the mortar bed is installed (for shower pan membranes)
or before the tile is installed (for bonded waterproof membranes). For punctures that do occur, the membrane
must be replaced or repaired according to the membrane manufacturer’s
directions for repairs. Ensure the
integrity of any repairs by water testing the repaired membrane.”

Problem #3: Ladders , buckets and tools sitting on pan liner

Same as above, TCNA handbook page 39

Problem #4: “Moisture sandwich” created by installing
vapor barrier behind Hardi board and Red Guard on top of Hardi board

I can’t find anything in the handbook about this. Contractor put the black sheeting material on
studs, then Hardi backer, then Red Guard.

Problem #5: Tile installed in unprofessional, sloppy
manner

Biggest problems were lippages, wildly inconsistent grout
spaces, and some tiles that were crooked/falling off. I’m not sure what to cite about this.

Problem #6: Tile setter used “spot setting” on shower
walls

After tile was removed, we could see that it was “spot set.” Most tiles only had between 10-20% coverage. We were planning to tile the ceiling. It’s scary to think tiles could have fallen
off ceiling due to poor coverage.

TCNA handbook, page 34:
“Average contact area for dry areas is 80% and for wet areas is
95%. Mortar coverage is to be evenly
distributed to support edges and corners.”

Problem #7: Contractor installed lights that were not
sealed units.

I can’t find anything in the handbook about this, but the
new contractor has installed lights that are sealed and appropriate for
steam.

Oh, and if I’m wrong
(for example if one of these problems really isn’t, please let me know)

Thank you!