SHOWERSLOPE™ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
PRODUCT QUESTIONS
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A TILE-BASIN® AND A SHOWERSLOPE™?
TILE-BASIN® VS SHOWERSLOPE™
What's the difference between the Tile-Basin® and ShowerSlope™? The ShowerSlope™ is identical to the Tile-Basin® with two exceptions. The ShowerSlope™ DOES NOT come factory prepped with an elastomeric waterproofing membrane coating, or with factory installed perimeter components (i.e. flange or curb), the ShowerSlope™ can also be cut-to-fit in the field, where as the Tile-Basin® cannot.
WHAT IS THE SHOWERSLOPE™ MADE OF?
UL® Certified expanded polystyrene (Type XV-EPS 60) geofoam core sandwiched between two composite epoxy materials (CEM). We start with a 3-pound high density EPS core and shape the base with a 1/4" per foot (2%) slope to the drain. In its raw state, the 3-pound EPS is tough; however, both surfaces (top & bottom) are then coated with a proprietary blend of hard coat epoxies and embedded composite fibers that gives the shower base its ultimate durability and strength.
HOW THICK IS THE SHOWERSLOPE™?
All standard shower slopes are 2" thick, custom shower slopes are typically 2" thick as well UNLESS they are custom manufactured with different specifications - using KBRS oatey drains require the ShowerSlope™ to be minimum of 2" thick. Additionally, if the drain is more than 49" or 50" off any side, then the slope is 2" thick to adjust for a proper 2% slope and thickness at the drain. If you require a different slope thickness for your project, please call us to discuss additional customizations.
HOW DO YOU INSTALL A SHOWERSLOPE™?
SHOWERSLOPE™ INSTALLATION
The ShowerSlope™ requires simple "handyman" skills to install. A ShowerSlope™ can be "cut-to-fit" in the field and can be adhered to the sub-floor using an even layer of troweled latex modified thin-set. The ShowerSlope™ uses a standard tile drain. No need to re-plumb for a special drain. In most cases, your existing tile shower drain can be reused to connect to a ShowerSlope™.
HOW DO YOU INSTALL A LINEAR SHOWERSLOPE™?
LINEAR SHOWERSLOPE™ INSTALLATION
The Linear ShowerSlope™ requires simple "handyman" skills to install. A Linear ShowerSlope™ can be "cut-to-fit" in the field and can be adhered to the sub-floor using an even layer of troweled latex modified thin-set. The Linear ShowerSlope™ uses a linear shower drain. No need to re-plumb for a special drain. In most cases, your existing tile shower drain can be reused to connect to a Linear ShowerSlope™.
WHAT KIND OF THIN-SET SHOULD I USE?
Any quality "polymer modified" thin-set will do just fine. Do not use a premixed thin-set (i.e.... water already added). A premixed thin-set that comes in a bucket with water already added will not cure properly. Remember: No premix! Always add your own water! Different terms for modified thin-set include: modified thin-set, modified thin set with a latex additive, fortified thin-set, polymer modified thin-set, polymer fortified blended thin-set. The thin-set must meet or exceed ANSI A118.4 and ANSI Al18.11 requirements when mixed with water.
Three of the most recognized brands:
1. Custom Building Products: usually found at The Home Depot. (Product Names: Versa Bond, Fortified, FlexBond Fortified and their elastic membrane is called RedGard)
2. Laticrete: usually found at The Home Depot, Lowe's and other tile suppliers. (Product Names: Laticrete 254 Platinum and their elastic membrane is called Hydro Ban).
3. Mapei: usually found at The Home Depot, Lowe's, Daltile and other tile suppliers (Name of product: Ultra Flex 2 and their elastic membrane is called Aqua Defense)
WHICH TROWEL SHOULD I USE?
For our KBRS shower drains, we recommend a 1/2" square notched trowel. In most cases, KBRS shower pan products include a 1/2" Square Notched Trowel. Deciding on a trowel will depend on how high your drain is set "above" the sub-floor. If you are using a different drain than one purchased from KBRS, please call usto discuss your project needs.
WHAT KIND OF SHOWER DRAIN IS RECOMMENDED?
A standard (PVC or ABS) 3-piece tile shower drain that uses a "clamping ring", will work fine. We sell these drains on our online store; however, this same type drain is available at most home improvement stores. Make sure you choose a brand that will allow the "strainer barrel" (the threaded part that holds the strainer) to thread down "flush" with your finished tile. We recommend, but do not require, the Oatey brand tile shower drain (this is the brand that we sell). We must have the part # if you want to use a different drain than what is available with KBRS.
ARE THERE RESTRICTIONS WITH CUSTOM DRAIN LOCATIONS
While KBRS can manufacture any shape, size, and drain location for a custom shower pan, it is recommended that the drain location must be a minimum of 10" off any side/edge of the shower base to the center of hole, as locating the drain hole any closer than this can make tiling difficult during installation, and visibly steep. Exceptions can be made on a case by case basis, contact us to discuss your individual shower project needs.
WHAT SIZE HOLE DO I CUT IN THE SUBFLOOR FOR THE SHOWER DRAIN?
If you have purchased one of our tile shower drains, you will need to cut a 4-1/2" hole in the sub-floor. The drain's "body" will need to recess into the sub-floor with the drain body "flange" supported by the sub-floor. Instructions on how to properly install a tile shower drain are available with every shower base we sell.
HOW FAR DOWN DO I CUT MY PIPE FOR THE SHOWER DRAIN?
1-3/4" inches below the top surface of the sub-floor will work as per our instructions; however, we strongly recommend that you determine this measurement once you have the tile shower drain "in your hands".
DOES A SQUARE DRAIN STRAINER FIT A ROUND PIPE?
Yes. It will connect to a 2" PVC pipe.
IS THE DRAIN KIT INCLUDED?
The drain kit is included in our ShowerSlope™ cut-to-fit kits, but not with individually sold Tile-Basin® or ShowerSlope™ products; you can purchase a tile drain on our online store with a shower accessory pack OR as a single item.
WILL THE DRAIN FIT TO A CAST IRON PIPE?
There are adapters available. We do not sell these adapters. We recommend that you consult with a local plumber, or plumbing wholesaler about this issue. Local codes can vary.
IS THERE ANY SIZE KBRS CAN'T OR WON'T MAKE?
The short answer is....we haven't found one yet. We love a challenge.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO MANUFACTURE A CUSTOM SHOWER PAN?
Our average lead-time is 1 - 2 weeks (Mon-Fri). This could slightly vary due to certain manufacturing conditions, in which if this becomes an issue you will be contacted and notified by a KBRS, Inc. representative.
CAN I ORDER A RAMP ATTACHED TO THE SHOWERSLOPE™?
Yes! We can custom manufacture a ramp attached to a ShowerSlope™. We can also add a radius on a custom ramp per your specifications. You can also order a 61" ramp, cut it on site and attach it yourself in the field if you prefer.
HOW CAN I ENSURE THAT THE SHOWER BASE IS COMPLETELY EMBEDDED IN THE THIN-SET AFTER I SET IT IN PLACE?
Typically, professional installers use boxes of tile or buckets of water to supply a uniform weight to the shower base until the thin-set is cured. Following this procedure will result in a "rock-solid" installation. Also, be sure to securely tighten the shower drain's "clamping ring" to the drain body in the sub-floor as recommended in the installation instructions.
I AM INSTALLING ON A WOOD SUBFLOOR, CAN I APPLY THIN-SET DIRECTLY TO THE SUBFLOOR?
If your sub-floor is structurally sound (no rotting...etc.) and level (very important), then applying thin-set directly to the sub-floor is okay. However, we do not recommend applying thin-set directly to particleboard.
IS THE SHOWERSLOPE™ WATERPROOF?
No, the ShowerSlope™ will need to be waterproofed in the field. One of the purposes of the ShowerSlope™ is to assist in the construction of a mortar-free, leak-free shower. Waterproofing the joints between the ShowerSlope™ and the tile backer board can be accomplished using our elastomeric waterproofing membrane ShowerSeal®. Elastomeric waterproofing membranes can also be purchased at most professional tile distributors or your local home center.
WHAT SUBSTRATES ARE SUITABLE FOR SHOWERSLOPE™ INSTALLATION?
- Suitable for any level substrate that you would normally build a tile shower on (concrete, approved plywood surface, etc.)
- Deflection of substrate not to exceed 1/360th of the span 1/2 inch (12 mm) in 15 feet (4.6 m) in accordance with ANSI A108.01-2.3
- Allow for live and impact load as well as dead load weight of pan, tile and setting beds.
WHERE CAN I INSTALL A SHOWERSLOPE™?
ShowerSlope™ products can be installed interior, exterior, as wet floors and as commercial or residential shower applications.
WHAT TILE TYPES ARE SUITABLE FOR SHOWERSLOPE™?
- Pebbled Tile
- Impervious Porcelain
- Gauged or Ungauged Natural Stone Tile
- Vitreous, Semi-vitreous or Non-Vitreous Tiles, Quarry, Cement Body Tile
GENERAL QUESTIONS
WHAT IS THE KBRS RETURN POLICY?
Standard or stock items may be returned within 30 days of purchase if purchased directly from KBRS, Inc - by internet, phone or fax. Standard or stock item(s) may be returned for credit or refund of the purchase price paid, less a 15% restocking fee. Custom product(s) or special orders are NOT eligible for return, credit or refund at any time; unless the product is received defective or the return is a direct result of a KBRS, Inc. error. To return an item you must first contact us via phone (866) 912-3211, or email returns@kbrsinc.com to obtain an RMA number. Item(s) must be returned in original packaging and return shipping must be paid by you, it is strongly recommended you insure your return package as KBRS will not be able to refund an item that arrives damaged and is not in re-stockable condition.
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DOES KBRS PROVIDE RETURN SHIPPING LABELS
Currently we do not provide shipping labels to have our products returned to us. Customers are required to return their products with the shipper of their choice. It is also recommended you insure your returned items, to protect form damages that may occur from shipping. KBRS will not be able to offer refunds on products that are returned damaged. All returns must be sent back to the warehouse in re-stockable conditions.
IF ALL MY PACKAGES DO NOT ARRIVE WHAT SHOULD I DO?
Since all of your products are packaged separately, it is common for items to get separated in the shipping process. Usually the missing product will arrive the next business day. If the product does not arrive by the end of the next business day, please contact us for a complete resolution.