My Experience With Hot Mopping A Shower Pan

A few months ago, I decided to remodel my bathroom. As I was researching ways to create a waterproof shower base, I came across the term “hot mopping.” I had never heard of it before, but after doing some research, I decided to give it a try. Here’s what I learned about hot mopping a shower pan.

What Is Hot Mopping A Shower Pan?

Hot mopping is a process used to create a waterproof shower base. It involves heating asphalt to a liquid state and then applying it to the shower floor and walls. The hot asphalt is then reinforced with layers of felt paper to create a waterproof barrier.

Step-by-Step Guide for Hot Mopping A Shower Pan

If you’re interested in hot mopping your shower pan, here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Clean the shower floor and walls to ensure that they’re free of debris and dust.
2. Apply a layer of primer to the shower floor and walls to help the asphalt adhere to the surface.
3. Heat the asphalt to a liquid state and apply it to the shower floor and walls.
4. Reinforce the asphalt with layers of felt paper, making sure that each layer overlaps the previous layer by at least 2 inches.
5. Apply another layer of hot asphalt to the top layer of felt paper.
6. Smooth out any bumps or wrinkles in the felt paper and let the asphalt cool and harden.
7. Apply a layer of thinset mortar to the top of the asphalt to create a level surface for tiling.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Hot Mopping A Shower Pan

Here are some tips and ideas to keep in mind if you’re planning to hot mop your shower pan:

1. Make sure that the shower floor and walls are completely dry before starting the hot mopping process.
2. Wear protective gear, including gloves and a mask, to avoid contact with hot asphalt and fumes.
3. Work with a professional hot mopper if you’re not experienced in the process.
4. Choose high-quality asphalt and felt paper to ensure a durable and long-lasting shower base.
5. Consider adding a slope to the shower floor to ensure proper drainage.
6. Allow the hot asphalt to cool and harden completely before moving on to the next step.
7. Use a level to ensure that the shower floor is even and flat before applying thinset mortar for tiling.
8. Consider using mosaic tiles or smaller tiles to create a non-slip surface on the shower floor.
9. Regularly inspect the hot mopped shower base for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
10. Consider adding a waterproofing membrane or sealer to the shower walls to provide additional protection against water damage.

Pros and Cons of Hot Mopping A Shower Pan

Like any home improvement project, hot mopping a shower pan has its pros and cons.

Pros:

• Creates a completely waterproof shower base.
• Durable and long-lasting.
• Can be customized to fit any shower size or shape.

Cons:

• Can be expensive, especially if you hire a professional hot mopper.
• Requires specialized equipment and materials.
• Can be time-consuming to complete.

My Personal Review and Suggestion for Hot Mopping A Shower Pan

Overall, I’m very happy with my decision to hot mop my shower pan. It was definitely more expensive than other waterproofing options, but I feel confident that my shower base will last for many years to come. The process was also fairly simple, although I did hire a professional hot mopper to ensure that the job was done correctly.

Q&A and FAQs

Q: Is hot mopping the only way to create a waterproof shower base?

A: No, there are other options such as installing a pre-fabricated shower pan or using a waterproofing membrane. However, hot mopping is a popular choice because it creates a completely waterproof base that can be customized to fit any shower size and shape.

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

A: The process can take several hours to complete, depending on the size of the shower and the experience of the hot mopper.

Q: How long does a hot mopped shower pan last?

A: With proper maintenance and care, a hot mopped shower pan can last for many years.