How do you install a shower base from scratch. I do not want to use a prefab base. Then will put glass doors on all sides and tile the back.

This is a pretty ambitious project for a person who has not done one before. This should help Building a shower pan with pre-sloped mortar bed, liner and curb. (http://www.ontariotile.com/preslope.html)

There is also a good website over at

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Use the kerdi system over cement board. Make sure your base has a pre-slope. This solution is a bit more expensive, but is somewhat forgiving to beginner. And if you get it right, you will have a shower that will last 50 years.

Knucklez

Both great sites but I like Building a shower pan with pre-sloped mortar bed, liner and curb. (http://www.ontariotile.com/preslope.html) the best because it gives the first timer pictures of how it should look. I'm lazy and just go with w Swanstone fibertglass tray, $280 for a 32x60 retro fit.