I had a contractor install a new Sterling Advantage bathtub with 3 piece surround. The subfloor had about 3/8" slope from rear to drain end, and about 1/4" slope or slightly less from back to front.
He said he never uses mortar underneath these tubs, but I insisted that was the most reliable way to fill the voids and level it out (according to Sterling installation instructions).
So, he put a bucket of coarse mortar underneath and he and his helper completed the install. The tub is level, but when I step in it, it has some flex and crunchy sounds. He also failed to install any apron brace at the midpoint so the apron flexes inward readily. I now need to deal with calling them back to redo things. They tend to be blaming me for insisting on a mortar bed so the "crunchy" and flex issue is my fault.
I'm not out to start a war with them, but rather get a good installation.
What is the technique for ensuring a good mortar bed installation ?
Thanks for all your help.
Charlie
He said he never uses mortar underneath these tubs, but I insisted that was the most reliable way to fill the voids and level it out (according to Sterling installation instructions).
So, he put a bucket of coarse mortar underneath and he and his helper completed the install. The tub is level, but when I step in it, it has some flex and crunchy sounds. He also failed to install any apron brace at the midpoint so the apron flexes inward readily. I now need to deal with calling them back to redo things. They tend to be blaming me for insisting on a mortar bed so the "crunchy" and flex issue is my fault.
I'm not out to start a war with them, but rather get a good installation.
What is the technique for ensuring a good mortar bed installation ?
Thanks for all your help.
Charlie