My Experience With Hot Mopping A Shower Pan

When I renovated my bathroom, I knew I wanted a tiled shower. However, I didn’t know much about the process of creating a waterproof base for the tiles. After some research, I decided to go with hot mopping the shower pan. Here’s what I learned about how to hot mop a shower pan.

How To Hot Mop A Shower Pan

Hot mopping a shower pan involves applying hot tar and felt paper to create a waterproof barrier. Here are the steps to hot mop a shower pan:

Step 1: Prepare the Area

Make sure the area where you will be hot mopping is clean and free of debris. Cover any nearby surfaces with plastic to protect them from the hot tar.

Step 2: Apply Tar

Heat the tar until it is hot and pour it onto the shower pan area. Use a trowel to spread the tar evenly over the surface.

Step 3: Add Felt Paper

While the tar is still hot, lay the felt paper over the surface. Press down firmly to ensure it adheres to the tar.

Step 4: Repeat Layers

Repeat steps 2 and 3 until you have applied at least three layers of tar and felt paper. The final layer should be tar.

Step 5: Let it Dry

Allow the hot mopped shower pan to dry completely before installing any tiles. This can take up to 24 hours.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas on How To Hot Mop A Shower Pan

Make sure the area is well-ventilated to avoid inhaling fumes from the hot tar.
Wear protective gear, including gloves, long sleeves, and pants, to avoid getting burned by the hot tar.
Use a high-quality tar to ensure a long-lasting waterproof barrier.
Apply the tar in thin layers to avoid creating a lumpy surface.
Overlap the felt paper by at least 2 inches to ensure complete coverage.
Allow each layer to cool before applying the next layer.
Be careful not to damage the hot mopped surface while installing tiles.
Seal the edges of the hot mopped shower pan with silicone caulk to prevent water from seeping through.
Consider hiring a professional if you are not confident in your ability to hot mop a shower pan.
Regularly inspect the hot mopped shower pan for cracks or damage and repair as needed.

Pros and Cons of Hot Mopping a Shower Pan

Hot mopping a shower pan has both advantages and disadvantages.

Pros:

Creates a waterproof barrier that is long-lasting and durable
Can be done on any size or shape of shower pan
Relatively inexpensive compared to other waterproofing methods

Cons:

Can be messy and time-consuming
Requires specialized equipment and materials
Can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken
May not be appropriate for DIYers without experience

My Personal Review and Suggestion on How To Hot Mop A Shower Pan

Overall, I am happy with my decision to hot mop my shower pan. It has held up well over time and I have not experienced any leaks. However, the process was messy and time-consuming, and I would not recommend it for inexperienced DIYers. If you are considering hot mopping your shower pan, I suggest doing thorough research and considering hiring a professional to ensure it is done correctly.

Question & Answer and FAQs

Q: How long does it take to hot mop a shower pan?

A: The process can take several hours, depending on the size of the shower pan and the number of layers you apply.

Q: Can hot mopping be done on any type of shower pan?

A: Yes, hot mopping can be done on any type of shower pan, including concrete, wood, and metal.

Q: How often should a hot mopped shower pan be inspected?

A: It is a good idea to inspect your hot mopped shower pan every few months for any signs of damage or cracking. Repair as needed to prevent leaks.