Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Oatey and QuickDrain systems are designed for both curbed and curbless showers, offering flexibility for any project.
What makes Oatey waterproofing membranes suitable for steam showers?
The QuickDrain topical sheet membrane has the lowest perm rating in the industry, providing superior moisture protection for continuous-use steam showers.
How do I fold inside corners when installing a shower liner?
Cement the inside of the triangular corner piece to itself to create a flap, then cement and fasten the flap to the liner on the straight wall, securing the top to a stud.
How thick should concrete be below a shower pan liner?
The recommended minimum thickness is ¼” at the flange, sloped up and away from the drain at ¼” per foot, but always follow the cement manufacturer’s guidelines.
What adhesives are approved for use with Oatey PVC and CPE liners?
Oatey approves Liquid Nails LN-609 (Panel & Foam Adhesive), LN-715 (Tub Surround & Shower Adhesive), and LN-915 (Tub Surround & Shower Wall Adhesive) for use with its liners.
What is the best way to wrap the shower pan liner over the curb?
There are two ways to complete this application. The first is to use one of the
approved adhesives from Liquid Nail product line; apply this product with a 1/8" trowel up the front, back and top surfaces of the curb. Then press the liner down to conform to the curb shape, and finally nailing the liner at the top edges and on the outside curb surface. The second method is to cover (wrap) all three sides of the curb with a cut (scrap) piece of liner and nail it into place, these nails can be located anywhere because they will be covered by the second (finished) piece of pan liner. All the nails must be flush or recessed into scrap piece of liner, without any sharp edges exposed. Then after cutting your finished liner to size and reaching the curb wrapping step, apply the appropriate solvent cement for that material and cement the finished liner to the scrap liner.
How can you get the creases out of prepackaged shower pan liner before installation?
Whenever possible you should purchase a piece of shower liner from a roll which all
the Home and Garden stores stock. However; if you do get a piece that has a crease in it, lay it on a flat surface in the sun or heat with a hair dryer. Then lay a flat heavy object on top of the crease for 30 minutes. This step may have to be repeated a few times in order to create new material memory. If the creases are too large, DO NOT install the liner. Large creases left in the liner will cause water to puddle under the concrete which could affect the integrity of the cement base, or mold growth which will transfer up through the grout joints. The pan liner must be self-draining.
How do I install a shower pan?
If you contact our customer service department, they would be happy to send you a full set of step by step installation instructions. You can also visit our website and watch our how-to video showing a shower pan installation.
Can you place roofing paper (tar paper) under the shower pan liner instead of concrete?
You cannot use any tar paper when installing the shower pan liner because the
petroleum in the tar paper will dry the liner, and the liner will become brittle and crack if there is prolonged exposure.
Can you install the pan liner when the floor has radiant heat?
Yes. Only CPE liner is approved for this application because of its ability to withstand
high heat.