Mortar under swanstone showerpan

[shamrock_94]

I'm installing a new shower pan, and from reading these boards, I can see that most recommend bedding the pan in a mortar base. I see that most like the method that calls for a few piles of mortar and pressing the tub/pan into the piles. My question is specifically with the swanstone pan I'm using. The underside of the pan is a grid of 3-4 inch squares that contact the floor, rather than the small contact points that seem to be common. In this situation, would you still bed the pan in mortar? If so how would you go about it? Since the grid is across the entire pan, the mortar would not have any place to "squeeze out" as in the other installations. Any opinions?

[shamrock_94]

Anyone care to comment ?

[OldPete]

Hi,

When I did my 32x60 pan I used a full bag of mortar mix. It ended up inside all of the "combs" (inside of the grid) on the unit and made for a shower pan that literally feels like you are jumping on a solid block of granite. I wouldn't use one of them without the bed. Ever.

[elgato]

I just received my 54x34 Swanstone Pan. I am surprised at how lightweight it is. Laying on a perfectly flast floor it flexes and squeaks when you step on it. I would never install one of these without the mortar bed.
This is a link to a photo of the underside of the pan.
http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e146/haiptyg/P1010098.jpg

The grid is approx 1/2" high at the edges and almost 0" at the center.

Any recommendations on mortar spreading technique for this pan?

Thanks