Hi!

I installed my first mortar shower floor last weekend, and it is too dry. I used Quikrete sand mix and acrylic fortifier (and water of course), but apparently not enough water. I sprinkled water over the top and let it dry overnight. Did it ever dry! When I run my hand across the top of it, the sand comes up. I am afraid the thinset won't bond when I try to install the tile.

Do any of you know of a remedy, short of ripping it out and starting over? Is there some type of hardener I can add on top now that would help? Thanks in advance!

Hi Lynn
Not to worry... mix some portland cement and water with some of the acrylic fortifier...mix it to a very watery consistancy....and pour it onto the concrete..making sure it soaks it as much as possible...Be sure to plug the drain so that none of it goes down and hardens in the trap..this will help a lot..though it's not perfect.

Good idea bri. Lynn, the dry-set nomally has that character about it which almost makes it look unstable, but its really ok. I like it that way because I'm able to carve it into the perfect bowl shape before I apply the floor tiles.