Building the Foundation for Proper Waterproofing

Before a shower pan is waterproofed, the area beneath the waterproofing system needs to be properly prepared. One of the most important parts of this preparation is establishing the correct pre-slope toward the shower drain.

The pre-slope helps direct water within the shower system toward the drain instead of allowing it to remain trapped beneath the finished surface.

Preparing the Shower Pan

The shower pan area is cleaned and prepared so the waterproofing system can be installed over a stable surface. The drain, curb, corners, perimeter and penetrations are also checked because these areas require careful attention during waterproofing.

For repair and replacement projects, this stage takes place after the failed shower pan has been removed and the exposed area has been evaluated.

Creating the Pre-Slope

A properly prepared shower pan is sloped toward the drain before the hot mop waterproofing system is installed.

The pre-slope creates the foundation for drainage beneath the finished tile assembly and helps guide moisture toward the shower drain rather than allowing it to collect in low areas.

Drain, Curb & Perimeter Details

Waterproofing is only as reliable as its critical transitions. Before hot mopping begins, we pay close attention to the areas around the drain, curb, corners and perimeter of the shower pan.

Proper preparation at these transitions allows the waterproofing membrane to be integrated continuously throughout the shower pan.

Ready for Hot Mop Waterproofing

Once the shower pan, pre-slope and critical areas have been properly prepared, the shower is ready for the waterproofing system.

This preparation creates the foundation for the next stage of our process: installing the reinforced hot mop waterproofing membrane that protects the shower beneath the finished tile.