The Tile Shop: Do-It-Yourself- Shower Pan

Do-It-Yourself Installing Tile Wall Tile Floor Tile Backsplash Shower Pan Cement Backerboard

The Drain:
Install a PVC drain assembly designed specifically for ceramic bases. Make sure that the lower flange is flush with the floor and the drain is sealed and secure.
The Liner:
The first step when installing the liner is to create a positive slope towards the drain, under the liner. Simply use “Ceramic Floor Mix” and a flat trowel; this will insure that if any water reaches the liner it will run to the drain. Next, cut the liner tight to the drain and screw the drain flange down over the liner. Leave enough material to run it 6” up the side walls and 3" into the curb, forming a shallow box. Fold and tuck the corners and secure the liner to the studs using galvanized roofing nails. Make sure not to nail through the liner too close to the floor as this could create a leak.
The Durock®:
Install the Durock® on the walls using galvanized roofing nails. Bring the Durock® down over the liner that is already secured to the studs. Once again, the nails should go no lower than 5" from the floor so as not to puncture the liner.
The Curb:
Install the outside form for the curb using 1"x4" or 1"x6" material. This should be installed with screws so it can be easily removed once the curb is formed. The inside form will go on the other side of the liner and should be level or slightly lower than the outside form.
The Base:
In a wheel borrow or mud box, add water to the “Ceramic Floor Mix” and work it to the consistency of wet sand. Begin by leveling the mud around the outside walls. A cut 2"x4" works well to pack the mud. Use a level to create a gentle slope towards the drain from all four sides. In the curb, pack the mud around the liner and level with the top of the forms. When you are finished packing the curb, carefully remove the forms. use a flat trowel to smooth and finish any irregularities on the surface. Allow your new shower base to set for at least 24 hours before tiling.