Construction of a mud shower tray for tile installations

The methods of constructing a mud shower tray in a tile shower remodel can make or break the entire installation.
Defective shower trays can lead to cracks, leaks, and a general mess.
Follow these steps to create the clay tray, and be sure to read and reread the entire article, to get all the materials needed for the project and to make sure the effort gets done right the first time.

1. Complete demolition of shower area to subfloor and wall studs.
Remove all debris and broom area.

2. Create a moisture barrier to protect against rotting and deterioration of the wood.
Staple 15-pound roofing felt to the wall studs and onto the subfloor. Overlap areas with stitching when necessary.

3. Create the curb.
You can frame your shower curb with 2×4 wood nailed together. It’s the industry standard for a six-inch curb, so three 2x4s will be needed stacked together. We recommend using stainless steel nails to join them.
You can also substitute a 2×4 curb frame for a pre-cast curb.

4. Build a pre-slope of the tray.
The mud mix used to complete the project is 1 part Portland Type II cement to 4 parts clean, wet sand. Make sure you have enough bags to mix to complete the entire project. (You don’t want to run out and have a “cold” to find a “hot” cure).
Create a pre-slope to direct the water to the drain. Be sure to keep the outside perimeter level and note that your final slope should increase 1/4 “for every foot.

5. Install a waterproof coating.
You will need to purchase a waterproof sheathing that wraps completely over your curb and folds into the tray and tightly wraps the wall studs to rise at least 3 “above the curb on all three walls.
Do not clamp or penetrate siding anywhere other than at the edges above the curb and at the top of the wall studs. (Staple or nail)
Make an “X” cut in the liner over the drain and fill inside.

6. Install cement board to wall studs.
Install 1/2 “cement backing board units over wall studs. Use approved fasteners, see installation instructions located on backing board product sticker.
Fine wrap seams with 2 “fiberglass mesh tape and adhesive.
Make sure NOT to penetrate the waterproof liner and stay at least 6 “above the bottom of the backing board where it meets the shower tray.

7. Mud shower trowel with trowel.
Use a mud mixture (1 part Type II Portland cement to 4 parts clean, damp sand) to create a shower tray.
Keep the perimeter level and the slope of the trowel 1/4 “rise per foot. Apply approximately one inch of mud over the entire curb.
Use the flat edge of the trowel to smooth the mud over the entire tray and curb. Let cure for at least 24 hours.

8. Place the mosaic.
Install tile over pan and walls with an appropriate thin-set mortar.

Good luck!
And have fun.