Schluter®-SHOWERPROFILE-WS and SHOWERPROFILE-WSK
are profiles that form a splashguard at the entrance of curbless showers.
SHOWERPROFILE-WS is installed in conjunction with the tile, while SHOWERPROFILE-WSK is
installed on the surface of the tile, such as in retro-fit applications.
The profiles are available in anodized aluminum and can be combined with either
the SHOWERPROFILE-WSC semi-circular insert or the SHOWERPROFILE-WSL collapsible upright insert.
Both profiles allow for wheelchair accessibility. However, please note that the WSL insert does not
comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), since it exceeds the allowable height of
a vertical transition despite being collapsible. Please check with local code officials for
acceptance on projects where ADA guidelines must be observed before installation.
Let’s start with the SHOWERPROFILE-WS. We have installed our Shower System,
DITRA uncoupling membrane, and tile up to where our SHOWERPROFILE-WS will be installed.
First, we’ll measure for the SHOWERPROFILE-WS. Then, transfer the measurement to the profile.
Make sure you have the appropriate cutting tools.
Since the profile is made of anodized aluminum,
we can use a chop saw or miter saw with a non-ferrous blade.
Remember to always observe all safety instructions and standards.
For best results, cut the profile slowly. An accurate cut ensures a clean transition.
Then, file the cut end of the profile to remove any burrs.
Check out our Tips & Tricks video on the best practices for cutting all profile materials.
Dry fit the profile before moving forward.
Once the profiles have been cut and dry fit, we can move on to the installation.
Apply a sufficient amount of thin-set mortar to the area where the profile will be installed.
Then, apply additional thin-set to the back of the profile to achieve full coverage and support.
Solidly embed the profile into the thin-set mortar until its surface
is flush with the adjacent tile. The profile is 5/16 of an inch high
but can be built up with thin-set mortar when used with thicker tile coverings.
Set the adjacent row of tile on the other side of the WS and beyond.
Don’t forget to remove excess setting material
immediately from the profile to avoid any damage to the finish.
Leave a space of approximately one-sixteenth to one-eighth inch for grout.
The installation of the SHOWERPROFILE-WS is complete.
Once the installation has been grouted and allowed to set, we will install the insert.
The WSL is a collapsible plastic upright lip. Measure and cut the insert to length.
It can be cut simply using a utility knife or Schluter®-SNIPS.
Insert the WSL into the profile.
The WSC is a semi-circular lip. It is installed in the same manner as the WSL.
Measure and cut the insert to length with SNIPS or a utility knife.
Insert the WSC in to the profile to complete the installation.
SHOWERPROFILE-WSK INSTALLATION Alternatively, the SHOWERPROFILE-WSK
can be installed on top of the tile, for example, in retrofit applications.
Since the tile is already set let’s take a look at how the profile is installed.
Measure and cut the profile to length as demonstrated previously.
End caps are available for applications where the profile ends will be visible after installation.
It is important to consider these while measuring for your profile length.
We’ve lightly marked the tile where the profile will be installed and placed painter’s tape to
protect the surrounding area. Apply a bead of adhesive, such as
Schluter®-KERDI-FIX or similar, to the underside of the profile legs where it contacts the floor.
Install end caps with KERDI-FIX, silicone, or similar adhesive prior to installing the profile.
Carefully set the profile in place.
Clean up any excess adhesive immediately. The installation of the SHOWERPROFILE-WSK
is complete. Finally, once the adhesive has set,
install the WSL or WSC insert in to the profile. As you can see, the SHOWERPROFILE-WS and WSK
are the perfect solution when you need to create splashguards for your curbless shower!