I am in the process of having a bathroom remodeled and can go either way - which is best? Pre slope mortart then Kerdi, Kerdi Drain,vKerdi pre-formed and Kerdi up the wall of shower (and over curb)or Pre-slope bed, Oatey 40 mil liner (i think it is 40 mil) antother mortar bed and over wood curb and then Laticrete over mortar bed and shower walls before thin setting for tile. I am interested in quality not ease of installation.

The highest degree of waterproofing will be from the Kerdi installation. You must use the Schluter drain with Kerdi.

I would go the Kerdi route if cost is not an issue.

What ever choice you make help is here to guide you thru the installation.

NOT EVEN CLOSE.....Kerdi system!

With the other method even if everything is done to exact specs by the most talented tile setter in town.....The upper mudbed will get wet, and might cause problems.

Jaz

Looks like we all feel the same way.
Kerdi is definately an upgrade .... it's also what I use for most my custom work.

Seeing as how I am going to be tearing apart my liner again, I am now seriously considering Kerdi products. Obviously, you can't buy this stuff at Lowes or Home Depot (at least I have never seen it there).

Is this something that can be obtained by a DIY-er?

Also, how hard would it be to install a Schluter drain into a cast-iron drain assmebly in a concrete floor (second level)?

Thanks again,
aksival

Are you in a condo?
Are the floors core slab or poured in place?

This is not going to be an easy task or even possible to change over to a Kerdi drain.

Lets start with the first question.

Yes, it's a condo...and the floors are core-slab.

The drain is made of cast iron and fixed into the concrete. If I can't turn this into a Schluter than am I stuck using the Oatey 40-mil liner with the original drain assembly?

Are there any *better* alternative to this type of liner (cost is not as important as effectiveness)?

aksival

If your on the second floor or above you may be in luck.

Most plumbing and p-traps are accessable from below.( enclosed in false ceilings)

Do you know if that might be the type of construction you have?

One big problem in multi floor condos has to do with liability. If you modify the plumbing and something happens to cause flooding or structural failure you are liable for all expenses to any damaged areas below.

Check your condo rules before you modify anything.

The condo is concrete all around...roof, walls, floor. It doesn't seem like an easy task to replace the drain...I guess I am stuck with the conventional drain type and "Oatey" liner.

No better alternatives anywhere?

aksival

Don't give up yet. Call a local plumber in your area to see if they can open up the floor enough to get the verticle leg of the p-trap changed over to PVC.

A reputable plumbing contractor should have the necessary insurance coverage should something go wrong. They will tell you whether this conversion can be done.

If they can't do it, then you will have to work with the existing drain.

I don't know of any other alternatives.