I don't use copper pans, they don't meet code here in CT. Copper pans are flat on the bottom, our membranes need to be sloped to drainage. So I'm not certain if your drain can be raised, it depends on the drain. But I'd think it could be, but it depends on the drain and if the drain has enough threading left to raise it that last 5/8". I'm not sure who does the work in MA. Down here in CT I can set the drain and tile. If your drain is adjustable the tiler could do all the demo, drain adjustment, and repair work. If the drain had to be replaced he might be able to do it or a plumber might have to be called in. If it's a soldered in drain I'd want the plumber, or whoever installed the pan, to do it. I'm not sure of MA protocol. I'd give the installer a call and see what he has to say. If the footing is uneven and unsure, I'd think the installer would want to fix it to prevent future liability claims against him. Heck, repairing an improper shower floor is a lot less expensive than paying for someone's broken hip.

I never heard it was rude to register for things for showers. I thought it was just rude to put where you are registered on the invitation. Registries have been around forever...how else will someone know what china pattern you picked, or what color towel you prefer? How will people know if you are breast or bottle feeding, etc. You don't have to use them, but registries are made to be helpful. Personally, I wouldn't have registered for so much newborn clothes or the expensive bedding especially since nowadays so many docs are saying not to use the comforter at all and to only use the bumper pads for a couple months...so you're paying really big bucks for a sheet. I think there is a lot of waste with decorating a room too.

lazypup, when you were talking about tightening the packing gland nuts, you meant thru the holes that the stems come thru? Would I be able to work thru such small holes? Here is a picture of my shower, redone by the sellers 2 years ago: As you could see the left handle is out further, this is because I had to add an extension because without it the knob was bottoming out on the flange and that cause the stem and knob knurling to get striped off. Can anyone explain why the left knob is in so much further? At first I assumed it might be the washer on the left side was worn away making me turn it more turns to shut off, but both the right and left handles turn exactly the same amount. There is something fishy, such as the entire assembly being crooked inside the wall. Also notice the 3/4" quarter round molding around the tile, the wall was packed out pretty far which might also be part of my problem. You could also see the tile cuts down by the tub, and how the grout has come out and the tile is loose. I assume that the water that pushed this grout out is also the water that is leaking downstairs, not the plumbing. BUT, if I am going to spend thousands to fix up the tile, I assume I should also fox the plumbing too, right? It looks pretty bad with one knob sticking out so far. Any ideas why the left knob needs an extension so it doesn't bottom out?

What I am finding after researching online is that the neoangle shower bases do not come in the same footprint as my existing shower and I believe the drain is going to be a problem. That's so frustrating because I am not wanting a tile floor anymore! Thanks to all who have weighed in. After seeing the photos, I was determined I wanted a floor pan as opposed to tile but I'm thinking it's not going to work. Still trying to get tile guy in to look at it. Until then I won't know for sure.