#716: Shop Foundations, Steam Showers, and Sealing a Brick Crawlspace

For steam showers, consult comprehensive manuals from manufacturers like Laticrete (104-page manual) and Schluter for detailed construction guidelines and material recommendations.

Utilize premium, experienced trade partners for steam shower installations due to the complexity and high cost, especially regarding electrical demands that often require significant panel upgrades (e.g., 90-amp breakers).

Ensure the entire steam shower space, including the ceiling, is treated like a wet room with Kerdi Board or membrane for effective vapor control; avoid unnecessary penetrations like additional vent fan holes in the shower enclosure.

Address all existing wall finishes in a bathroom slated for a steam shower; if wood paneling is present, remove it to properly install a robust vapor retarder behind the Kerdi Board or membrane, as paneling often lacks adequate moisture protection.

When encapsulating a crawlspace, prioritize moving mechanical systems (HVAC, plumbing) into the conditioned space and use a heavy-duty reinforced poly vapor barrier on the floor, sealed to the walls.

For brick crawlspaces, consider insulating the interior walls with a product like Rockwool's Smart Rock to allow moisture movement while keeping the brick warm and improving airtightness.

Thoroughly air seal the rim joist and house-to-foundation connections in crawlspaces to prevent air leakage, which is crucial for overall energy performance and comfort.