We’ve got not 1 but 2 leaky tub enclosures. A guy advertises the “Schluter systems” floor drains and waterproof membranes, and tile forum commenters seem to think it’s the Next Big Thing. Anyone have any experience with Schluter?


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  1. We use their products, and I have not had any call backs for leaks. Though I’ve never had callbacks to installations where I have not used Schluter either.

    For a Brownstoner client who had a bad leaky tub/tile scenario last year, we installed Oatey PVC membrane behind cement board. It costs much less than the Schluter membrane.

    For another Brownstoner client who had a failing shower curb, it was discovered that the curb and pan had been wrapped with the Schluter membrane – however the curb had been made of sheetrock and the mortar bed for the pan had fractured. We re-did the stall, poured a concrete curb and pan and used the Schluter membrane for waterproofing.

    Regardless of the product, it is only the quality of the overall installation that will guarantee longevity.

  2. We use Schluter quite a bit, and we like it.

    I especially like the tub molding that replaces caulk between tub and tile.

    All their products are for correct installation, not retro-fit. Meaning they make for a nice install, but you cannot use them to fix a problem. They mostly get thinsetted behind the tile.

    Most European tiles now come in various sizes, but no trim pieces. To get a finished edge, you would use a color coordinated edging from Schluter, andthey come in various profiles and thicknesses (for different tiles).

    If your prospective installer is using Schluter, hopefully he accepts new technology, and isn’t an “old-timer”. Not that there’s anything wrong with old-timers, just I prefer the Schluter “look”.