General Tile Discussion

Hey everyone,

I’m tackling a master bath remodel, and I wanted to share my progress so far and ask for some advice. I’ve been a member of this page for about a year, and with a newborn due in May, I’m on a tight timeline to get this done—especially since the materials are currently stored in the nursery. I’ll post periodic updates as I go, similar to what I’ve seen from others.

The Plan

I’m looking to modernize the space with the following changes:

• Replace the old fiberglass shower insert with tile

• Remove the garden tub and replace it with a freestanding tub

• Update the vanity

I’ll be working in segments:

1. Shower

2. Flooring

3. Bathtub

4. Vanity

Here’s a summary of my progress and some questions I’ve run into.

Phase 1: The Shower

• Shower Pan: I’ve purchased and dry-fitted the Tile Redi Shower Pan. Since I don’t have access below the subfloor, I plan to set the drain at the same time I’m setting the thin-set. I followed Isaac’s recent video and decided to go with CBP Prolite thin-set.

Phase 2: Tub Fitting

• Tub Drain Connector: I’m still deciding on the best drain connector, but I’m leaning toward the vortex adaptor. Any suggestions?

Phase 3: Bathroom Flooring

• Current Floor: The existing floor is linoleum. I’m planning to use Ditra’s uncoupling membrane because the subfloor is OSB.

• Tile Choice: My wife wants a bohemian floor look, and I may have already purchased the Corta Gray Ceramic Tile. Any concerns about using this tile for a bathroom install?

• Tile: Corta Gray Ceramic Tile

Phase 4: Vanity

• Vanity Placement: The current vanity is alongside the outside wall, with the pipes running through the floor. The new vanity will need the pipes to be fed through the wall. I’m planning to move and insulate the pipes within the wall and potentially leave them exposed.

Questions:

Shower:

1. Tile Redi Drain Question: For the Tile Redi drain, is it PVC or ABS? I currently have ABS pipes, but based on a recommendation from my father-in-law (a plumber), I can cut the ABS riser and join a PVC pipe using a rubber sleeve with a metal jacket. Has anyone done this, or does anyone foresee any issues with this method?

2. Waterproofing Outside the Curb: I’m using the Tile Redi system and am wondering what the best method is for waterproofing the area outside of the curb. I’ve seen videos where the Redi Wall board meets the curb, but should I also add a separate waterproofing membrane outside the curb for extra protection?

3. Mold Under Curb: When I removed the linoleum and shower insert, I found mold under the curb and along the edges (see photos below). Any advice on how to handle this?

4. Seam Tape: Is it necessary to use seam tape on every wall board, or is that considered overkill for this project?

5. Prepping Subfloor for Tile: The subfloor is OSB. Besides using thin-set, are there additional steps I should take to prep the subfloor for tile, especially to prevent future issues like cracking or unevenness?

6. Shower Wall Waterproofing: In addition to the Tile Redi system, do I need to waterproof the shower walls? If so, which waterproofing products do you recommend?

Tub Fitting:

1. Freestanding Tub Placement: For those who have installed a freestanding tub, any tips on ensuring it's properly centered and level before securing it in place? Are there any special requirements for the drain and water supply line placement?

Flooring:

1. Tile Cutting: I’ll likely need to cut some of the tiles around the edges. For the Corta Gray Ceramic Tile, any advice on the best way to make clean cuts, especially around the toilet or other fixtures?

2. Ditra Membrane Installation: Any advice on applying the Ditra uncoupling membrane, especially on OSB subfloor? Any common mistakes to avoid?

Vanity:

1. Moving Pipes Through the Wall: Has anyone moved plumbing pipes through the wall in a similar situation? Any specific tools or techniques that would make this process easier?

2. Exposed Plumbing Aesthetic: If I leave the pipes exposed within the wall, what’s the best way to make them look aesthetically pleasing, or should I plan to conceal them with a cover or cabinet?

General Advice:

1. Timeline Management: Given my tight timeline (with the baby on the way), does anyone have tips on managing multiple phases of a remodel while ensuring everything gets done on time? Any advice on how to balance family responsibilities and DIY projects?

2. Tool Recommendations: For a first-time DIYer, are there any tools or equipment you would recommend specifically for shower, flooring, or tub installations? I want to make sure I have everything I need before diving into each phase.

3. Mistakes to Avoid: As a first-time DIYer, are there any common mistakes that you would advise against or things I should double-check to avoid expensive or time-consuming issues down the line?

4. Future Maintenance: After completing the remodel, are there any ongoing maintenance tasks I should plan for—especially with the new shower pan, freestanding tub, and ceramic floor tiles?

Appreciate any comments, tips or must knows prior. Will keep the group updated as the project progresses. I also am looking to schedule time with Isaac in the coming week to get assistance with some of the aforementioned questions. Thanks everyone!

Photos:

Old Shower insert:

Master bath view: Forgot to take a picture so leveraged from the listing when we purchased the home

Mold near curb of shower:

Post mold remediation:

Tile Redi Shower Pan Dryfit