Viewing a single comment thread. View all comments

Reelplayer t1_j28ws66 wrote

This shouldn't be filled. A gap at the bottom of the wall prevents water from climbing up behind the wall by capillary action.

−6

Bubbagumpredditor t1_j290fkl wrote

It also allows your shower to leak water into the wall

8

Reelplayer t1_j291kgz wrote

Not if your wall is properly waterproofed. Red guard on the wall with a seal to the floor membrane, then tile or surround with a gap at the bottom. Standard stuff.

−5

Talbotus t1_j28x6v8 wrote

As long as its waterproofed behind there this is correct. Makes it tougher to clean tho.

4

Reelplayer t1_j291vxj wrote

I would argue that old, nasty caulk under there is more difficult to clean. And mold behind the surround or water damaged drywall is much more difficult to deal with.

4

circle22woman t1_j291h43 wrote

A gap at the bottom won't stop water from working its way up since capillary action will "pull" the water up. And the gaps will get super gross unless it's constantly cleaned.

2

Reelplayer t1_j29270d wrote

That's not true. The gap allows a pressure break so the water can just spill right back into the pan.

−2

circle22woman t1_j2c0ukn wrote

That's not how capillary action works. There is no "pressure" with capillary action.

1

Reelplayer t1_j2cag04 wrote

Yes that's true. Technically it's surface tension. I figured it would just be simpler for others to understand if I said pressure break. And it doesn't change the point of having a gap.

1