Tiling a shower can seem like a daunting task, but with the right planning and preparation, it is a DIY project that most homeowners can tackle successfully. Proper tiling creates a waterproof barrier, protects walls from moisture damage, and allows for easy cleaning and maintenance. By following key steps, you’ll be able to transform your shower area with crisp new tile.
Choose the Right Tile for a Shower
Choosing the right tile is one of the most important decisions when learning how to tile a shower. There are several factors to consider when selecting tile:
Water Resistance
It’s critical to choose a tile that can withstand sitting in water and humidity. Tile intended for shower walls is less porous than regular tile and will resist staining and deterioration. Look for tiles marketed as bathroom tile, shower tile, or having a water absorption rating of less than 3%.
Popular water-resistant tile options include:
- Porcelain
- Ceramic
- Natural stone (granite, marble)
- Glass
Tile made from eco-friendly recycled materials can also be used if properly sealed. Always check manufacturer guidelines.
Style
Obviously, you’ll want a style that you find aesthetically appealing. From gleaming subway tile to intricate stone mosaics, there are endless options.
Consider the shower’s overall design and color scheme. Neutral colors like white are great for small shower spaces, as they make the space appear larger. Bold, dynamic patterns or textures can make a statement in a larger shower area.
The tile size also impacts its look. Smaller tiles like mosaics create busier patterns. Larger tiles project a more seamless, expansive appearance.
Slip Resistance
Shower floors are wet areas, so tile needs to provide friction. Mosaics generally offer more grip than larger tiles. Some tiles even come with grip strips or textured surfaces.
Check the tile’s coefficient of friction (COF). This measures slip resistance, and tile intended for shower floors should have a COF of .60 or above.
Cost
Tile pricing depends on factors like materials, size, finish and design complexity. Keep your budget in mind when selecting tile. With some many choices available, you can find beautiful, water-resistant tile at nearly every price point.
Porcelain, ceramic and glass tend to be the most affordable options. High-end stone and mosaic tiles have a more premium cost.
How to Prepare Shower Walls for Tiling
Proper prep work is crucial for successful tile installation. Rushing this step can lead to problems like cracks, damage, and loose tiles down the road.
Here’s how to get shower walls ready for tile:
Remove Existing Materials
If tiling over an existing surface, you’ll need to remove all old tile, grout and adhesive first. Use a hammer and chisel to break up tile and scrape away remaining debris.
Be extremely thorough, as any leftover material can prevent proper tile bonding. Wear safety goggles and a mask to protect from dust and debris.
Clean and Dry the Surface
Once everything is removed, thoroughly clean shower walls and floors with a mild cleanser or vinegar solution to eliminate soap scum, oils and grime.
Rinse several times with clean water to remove any cleaning product residue. Let all surfaces dry completely.
Inspect and Repair Walls
Inspect walls closely for any damage that needs repairing before tiling. Look for cracks, holes, deteriorating grout and loose or damaged sections of wallboard or surface material.
Use spackling compound and patching tape to fix small holes. Cut out and replace any larger damaged sections.
Shower walls should be structurally sound and free of defects for proper tile adhesion.
Remove Plumbing Fixtures
Remove any existing plumbing fixtures, like the shower arm, faucet handles and shower head escutcheon. It’s much easier to tile walls without fixtures in place.
Turn off water supply lines before removal. Take photos of plumbing parts before disassembly so you can correctly reinstall them later.
Clean Again
Once repairs are complete, clean surfaces again to remove dust and debris. Let dry fully.
Surfaces should be pristine for applying tile mortar.
How to Prep Shower Floors for Tile
Preparing the shower floor takes a few extra steps to ensure proper drainage and prevent leaks.
Slope the Floor
The shower floor must slope toward the drain so water doesn’t pool. Use a level to ensure the floor has at least a 1/4 inch slope per foot.
If it’s not sloped, you may need to use self-leveling compound to correct the angle before tiling.
Install Backerboard
After correcting slope, install cement backerboard over wood or concrete subfloors. Backerboard prevents moisture damage and provides an even surface for tiling.
Cut boards to fit the shower floor snugly. Secure with construction adhesive and screw to the subfloor every 6 inches.
Apply Waterproofing Membrane
Next, install a waterproofing membrane like Redgard or AquaDefense over all seams and fastener locations. Apply thinset mortar between membrane coats.
This creates a waterproof barrier preventing leaks through the floor. Follow manufacturer instructions closely.
Let the membrane cure fully before tiling.
Make Cuts for Plumbing
Use a jigsaw to cut holes in areas where shower valves, faucet plumbing and the drain flange will install. Cut just large enough for fixtures to fit snugly.
Place duct tape around cut areas to prevent debris from falling through.
Final Cleaning
Clean and dry the floor again before tiling. Vacuum up all dust and debris as well.
Tiling Shower Walls Step-by-Step
Once prep work is complete, you’re ready to start tiling shower walls. Follow these key steps:
Step 1: Plan Tile Layout
Map out your tile layout on the walls before applying any adhesive. This allows you to determine the best placement for an even look.
Measure wall dimensions and mark the center. Use a level to draw perfectly straight horizontal and vertical lines spanning the entire shower area.
Start tiling at these center lines, working outward. This helps keep tiles aligned and level.
Also decide if tiles will be offset or aligned at seams. Offsetting tiles creates more dynamic patterns.
Step 2: Mix Thinset Mortar
Follow package directions to combine thinset powder with water in a bucket. Use a drill mixer to blend to a smooth, uniform consistency.
Only mix what you can use in about 30 minutes before mortar becomes unusable. Discard any unused thinset.
Step 3: Apply Thinset to Walls
Use a notched trowel to spread a layer of thinset mortar evenly across a section of wall. Apply in a straight, horizontal direction.
Hold the trowel at a 45° angle and use enough pressure to scrape mortar from trowel ridges. This creates an even setting bed.
Only cover a small area that you can tile before mortar dries. Time working in small sections.
Step 4: Set Tiles into Thinset
Working from your layout, firmly press tiles into the mortar, twisting slightly. Use spacers between tiles for consistent grout lines.
Check fronts and backs of tiles periodically to ensure full mortar contact and prevent voids.
Remove any excess mortar immediately with damp sponge. Wipe any tile faces as well.
Step 5: Check Alignment as You Go
After setting several tiles, inspect their alignment along all edges. Make any necessary adjustments.
Use levels and measuring tape to verify tiles are perfectly vertical and horizontal. Alignment is key for a pro looking finish.
Continue setting tiles in sections until walls are fully covered. Don’t let mortar dry before tiling.
Step 6: Cut Edge Tiles
For tiles that edge walls, pedestal and fixtures, make precise cuts using a wet saw.
Measure and mark tiles to fit. Cut slowly and evenly for clean edges. Grind cut edges smooth.
Cut tiles must have full coverage by the thinset mortar for proper bonding.
Step 7: Seal Corner and Edge Joints
In corners and along edges where tiles meet other surfaces, apply color-matched silicone sealant.
After tile installation, fill these joints to prevent moisture seeping behind tiles. Use masking tape for super straight lines.
Let sealant dry fully before grouting.
Tiling the Shower Floor Step-by-Step
Many of the same techniques are used to tile shower floors. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Dry Lay Floor Tiles
Start by arranging tiles across the floor without any adhesive. Look for best alignment and pattern spacing.
Plan for a symmetrical layout that places center tiles at equal distances from walls. Minimize small cuts at edges.
Make adjustments and outline tile locations with a pencil.
Step 2: Mix Floor Thinset
Combine floor thinset powder with latex additive instead of water. This creates a mortar suitable for shower floor installation.
Blend well with a drill mixer to a smooth, toothpaste-like consistency. Only mix what you can use in 30 minutes.
Step 3: Spread Thinset on Floor
Apply thinset using a notched trowel sized for the tile. Use a 1/4″ x 3/8” trowel for tiles under 8” x 8”. Use a 1/2″ x 1/2” trowel for larger tiles.
Spread in straight rows, holding the trowel at a 45° angle. Cover only a small area at a time to prevent drying.
Step 4: Set Floor Tiles
Working from your dry layout, set tiles into the mortar. Twist and press firmly to ensure full contact and remove air pockets.
Use tile spacers for consistent grout line width. Immediately remove any adhesive from tile faces with a damp sponge.
Check for level alignment across the floor as you tile. Make alignment adjustments as needed.
Step 5: Cut and Set Perimeter Tiles
Make precise cuts for any perimeter tiles using the wet saw. Grind edges smooth.
Set cut tiles flush with walls. Ensure they make full contact with thinset mortar.
Run a grout float across tiles periodically to keep the surface flat.
Step 6: Mix Grout
Once all shower tiles are set, mix grout following package directions. Portland cement grout is ideal for wet shower conditions.
Only mix enough grout for use in 30 minutes. Discard any that dries or hardens beyond that point.
Apply grout release to tiles with a soft cloth if needed to prevent staining.
How to Grout Shower Tile
Grouting seals joints between tiles and gives the installation a polished, finished look. Take care with these key steps:
Apply Grout
Use a grout float or rubber grout float to spread grout across tile joints. Apply at a 45° angle pressing firmly to fill joints completely.
Work in small sections of about 4 square feet so grout stays workable. Avoid smearing grout on tile faces.
Let Grout Set Up
Allow grout to firm up on tiles for 10-15 minutes. This allows it to set into joints. Mist lightly with water if it starts drying too quickly.
Don’t let grout dry completely on the surface. It should be firm but still plastic below the surface.
Clean Excess Grout
Use a damp grout sponge to gently wipe tiles at a 45° angle to remove excess grout sitting on the surface. Rinse sponge frequently.
Work diagonally across tiles to avoid pulling grout from joints. Change rinse water often for best results.
Final Polish
Once grout haze is removed, polish the tiles with a clean, dry microfiber cloth. Avoid harsh scrubbing right after grouting.
Let grout cure 24 hours before shower use. Avoid water contact as much as possible during curing.
How to Seal Shower Tile and Grout
Sealing tile and grout creates a protective barrier against moisture and stains. It’s an important final step after installation.
Clean Surfaces Thoroughly
Remove all residue, film and soap scum from tiles and grout with a pH neutral cleaner.
Rinse several times. Let the shower dry completely before sealing, usually 24 hours.
Apply Tile Sealant
Use a sealing sponge, paintbrush or spray bottle to apply a thin, even coat of silicone sealant to all tile surfaces. Avoid overlap.
Two light coats are better than one heavy application for best protection. Let the first coat dry before the second.
Seal the Grout
Once tile sealant has fully cured, apply a grout sealant to all grout lines, following product directions.
A penetrating grout sealer is best for showers. Reapply sealant once a year.
Sealing tile and grout keeps your shower walls and floor looking pristine for decades. It prevents damage and also allows for easier cleaning.
Tile Shower Maintenance Tips
With proper care, tiled showers stay looking fresh and new for years. Here are some top maintenance tips:
- Use a gentle cleanser and soft sponge or cloth to clean tiles. Harsh chemicals and scrubbing can damage surfaces.
- Sweep or vacuum tile floors regularly to prevent ground-in dirt and stains, especially in grout joints.
- Reapply tile and grout sealer every 6-12 months to maintain protective barriers.
- Remove any mildew or soap scum immediately to prevent buildup. A 50/50 vinegar and water solution kills mildew.
- Check grout lines and tile edges periodically for any cracks or damage. Re-grout or replace individual tiles as needed.
- Use a bathroom vent fan during showers and open windows afterward to control humidity and prevent moisture damage.
- Consider using a floor squeegee after showering to prevent mineral spots and scale buildup on tile.
With careful installation and regular maintenance, tiled showers offer a beautiful, high-end look with practical waterproof benefits. Protect your investment by properly caring for shower tiles and grout.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tiling Showers
Tiling a shower for the first time brings up many questions. Here are expert answers to some of the most common FAQs:
Should shower walls or floor be tiled first?
It’s best to start tiling walls before the floor. This allows you to work from the bottom up on walls without stepping onto freshly tiled floors. Finished floor tiles can also be used as a guide to keep bottom wall tiles level.
What thinset mortar is best for shower tile?
Use white unmodified thinset for walls and modified thinset with latex additive for shower floors. These water-resistant mortars provide maximum adhesion in wet environments.
Is textured tile OK for shower walls and floors?
Yes, textured tiles add style and also provide needed slip resistance. Just be sure to use grout appropriate for wider joints, usually 3/8 inch or larger.
How long after tiling can shower be used?
Allow tile mortar and grout to cure fully for 24-48 hours before water exposure. Grout reaches maximum hardness in 28 days. Seal tile and grout before any use.
Should shower corner shelves be tiled?
Yes, use thin tile on corner shelves, applying directly over water resistant backing like cement board. This prevents moisture damage. Match shelf tile to surrounding walls.
Can shower niches hold shampoo bottles?
Shower niches are decorative only, not for holding toiletries which can fall. Instead use corner shelves or install a separate shampoo caddy securely on walls.
Conclusion
Tiling a shower is a weekend project most DIY-ers can successfully tackle with proper preparation, patience and by following key installation steps. Use water resistant tiles and materials to create a stunning shower design that protects your bathroom from costly water damage. Regular sealing and cleaning will keep your tile looking like new for decades.
With some perseverance and attention to detail throughout the process, you can enjoy the beautiful, high-end look of a professional-quality tiled shower that increases your home’s value.