In this video Im going to show you how we mix deck mud for a shower pan. Mortar is unique because it contains both sand and cement. This is a combination of two or more of the above materials. I have therefore taken a few pictures of the mud I make, and I will explain the process once again. So, you have to use that if you want to use a Quikcrete product. It is also possible to install slide shims under your shower pan if the base is not level, but many homeowners and professionals use mortar instead. You just want it damp really. quikrete sand topping mix vs deck mud (shower pan/pretty slope) It is not. That stuff's usually about 3 to 1 ratio. Terms of Use | Disclaimer | It comes in 94 lb. This will ensure that your shower pan is strong at potentially vulnerable spots. When you pick up a handful of it you should be able to squeeze it without water dripping from it. For me, I use 1 bag (60 lbs) of sand mix, 1/2 bag (25 lbs) of play sand, and 1 3/4 quarts of water. It is not tough mud, which is decent to use for a flooring base. That's why we always recommend adding more sand. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Continuing to mix the mortar will eliminate much of the clumping unless the cement content is too rich. Considering the comparative benefits of both materials after my extensive research, I came to the conclusion that both have importance on their grounds. How to Choose the Right Mortar Mix Type: N, O, S, or M It is the best choice! Therefore, while you technically can use Quikcrete, it doesnt mean thats ideal. You can use Quikrete Floor Mud and Sand Mix for your shower pan. Ideally, you get the real deal when it comes to your shower pan. 60 lb. The best concrete mix for shower pans is made by Quikrete. Solvent-weld the pieces then staple them to the wall and curb. How to Make Shower Deck Mud - Build My Own Cabin It is great to use Quikrete for your shower pan because it does not sag and has a quick cure time. So, instead, you should mix your own concrete to ensure a job is done well. Easy-To-Follow Guide! You want 5 parts sand to 1 part cement. On the other hand, Mortar has flowy viscosity for hassle-free handling. So, it may take time to carbonate. The right mortar mix for the shower pan determines how good the pan will be. The purpose of using the cleavage membrane is to keep the subfloor from sucking the moisture out of the deck mud prematurely. The lime powder is your mortar mix combined with the carbonate in the air and forms calcium carbonate that fills the gaps and cracks of your wall. You can also make mortar if you mix Portland cement, sand, and water. It should be able to hold its shape when you squeeze it, just like a snowball. Lime is the element that differentiates deck mud from Mortar. Heres why people like it: No sand mix is perfect, which is why its good to be aware of the issues that can arise from using the product of your choice. This means some areas of the pan will have a pitch greater than 1/4 in. Some professionals prefer a richer mix of 4:1, but Ive found that ratio hard to mix and spread. In this article, well talk about Quikrete and exactly how you can use it for your shower pan.