Choosing the right tile for your steam shower is an important decision that requires careful thought and planning. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming trying to select the perfect tile that is both visually appealing and functionally suited for a steam shower environment. Follow this guide to learn the key factors to consider when choosing tile for your dream steam shower.
Tile Material
The tile material you select must be able to withstand prolonged exposure to steam and moisture. Consider the following commonly used steam shower tile materials:
Porcelain
Porcelain tile is an excellent choice for steam showers. Made from very dense clay, porcelain is highly water-resistant and withstands humidity well. Opt for porcelain with a matte finish to minimize slipping. Porcelain comes in a wide variety of styles, shapes, colors and patterns to complement any design aesthetic.
Ceramic
Look for ceramic tile rated for high-humidity environments. The dense composition of ceramic resists moisture absorption. A PEI rating of 5 is recommended for shower floors. Select a ceramic with a matte or satin finish to prevent slipping.
Natural Stone
Some natural stones like granite, marble and slate can work well in steam showers provided they have a dense composition and quality sealant applied. However, these pricier and more delicate options require greater maintenance to prevent staining or damage.
Glass Tile
An eye-catching option, glass tile must have a waterproof coating to be suitable for steam showers. Opt for tempered glass tile to withstand temperature fluctuations. Glass offers a sleek, modern vibe but can feel slippery underfoot.
Mosaics
Small mosaic tiles create a vibrant, ornate style when used for steam shower walls. Ensure mosaic tiles have a mesh backing and grout with a polymer-modified grout. Avoid polished mosaics that can get slippery.
Tile Size
Larger format tiles 12×12 inches or bigger are easier to clean with fewer grout lines that can discolor. Smaller mosaic tiles make a bold design statement but require more intensive cleaning.
For flooring, a tile size between 2×2 inches to 4×4 inches provides better stability underfoot. Anything smaller could feel unstable when wet.
Tile Style
Consider the overall aesthetic you want for your steam shower. Subway tiles give a classic, vintage vibe. Bold patterns and mosaics make a lively visual statement. Choose calming, neutral earth tones for a spa-like environment.
Larger tiles can create a sleek, seamless look. Combine different tile sizes, shapes and designs to create custom patterns. Accent with decorative inlay tiles or listello borders.
Slip Resistance
Selecting tile with good traction is crucial for steam shower floors where slipping is a hazard. Check the Coefficient of Friction (COF) rating which measures slip resistance. A COF of 0.60 or above is recommended for shower floors.
Mosaics, tiles with a smooth glaze or high polish can become slippery when wet. Opt for matte, textured finishes which provide more grip underfoot. You can also apply anti-slip treatments to tile surfaces.
Grout Suitability
Grout provides the watertight seal between tiles. Epoxy grout is the best choice for steam showers as it resists discoloration from moisture. Polymer-modified sanded cement grout also performs well.
Avoid regular sanded grout which absorbs more water and risks staining. Make sure to seal the grout periodically to maintain water resistance. Contrasting grout colors can create eye-catching designs.
Easy Maintenance
Minimal maintenance is key for steam shower tiles. Avoid intricate patterns or natural stone that requires frequent sealing and cleaning.
Opt for durable, water-resistant porcelain in lighter shades that hide soap scum and hard water deposits better. Larger tiles have fewer grout lines to discolor or accumulate grime.
Applying a grout release or sealant during installation helps shield tiles from staining and damage over time. Routinely clean tile surfaces with pH-neutral cleaners.
Hiring a Professional
Proper prep work and installation methods are vital for ensuring tiles hold up in a steamy environment. Consider hiring a professional tiling contractor experienced with steam shower projects.
They will assess the shower location and layout to provide tile recommendations tailored to your design goals, usage and budget. A pro can also handle challenging cuts, intricate patterns and niche placements.
Key Takeaways for Choosing Steam Shower Tile
- Select dense, moisture-resistant materials like porcelain, ceramic or properly sealed natural stone.
- Larger tiles or mosaics with mesh backing are preferable over small tiles.
- Opt for matte finishes and tile with a high COF rating of 0.60+ for slip resistance.
- Use epoxy or polymer-modified grout suited for wet areas.
- Neutral colors hide soap scum better than dark grout lines.
- Hire a professional tiling contractor experienced with steam shower installations.
With some thoughtful planning upfront, you can choose the perfect steam shower tile to match your functional needs and design vision. Investing in the right moisture-resistant tile materials and proper installation techniques will allow you to enjoy your home spa retreat for years of steamy relaxation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing Tile for a Steam Shower
What is the most waterproof tile for a steam shower?
Porcelain tile is highly water-resistant and the best choice for steam shower walls and floors. Made from very dense clay, porcelain has almost zero porosity and withstands exposure to steam beautifully.
What natural stone works in a steam shower?
Granite, marble, and slate can potentially work provided they are properly sealed. However, these more delicate natural stones require careful sealing and maintenance to prevent staining, damage or mold growth in a humid environment.
Can you use ceramic tile in a steam shower?
Yes, ceramic tile can be an affordable option for steam showers if you choose a tile rated for high-humidity locations. Select ceramic with a dense composition, PEI rating of 5, and textured matte finish to limit slipping when wet.
Should you use glass tile in a steam shower?
Glass tile can make a gorgeous, contemporary statement in a steam shower. Ensure the glass has a waterproof coating to withstand condensation drips. Tempered glass is best to handle temperature fluctuations. For safety, opt for textured glass that provides more traction.
What size tile is best for a steam shower?
Larger format tiles 12×12 inches or bigger are preferable since they have fewer grout lines that can harbor mildew and soap scum buildup. For floors, a 2×2 to 4×4 inch tile provides better stability underfoot when wet.
What kind of grout should be used in a steam shower?
Epoxy grout is highly recommended for steam showers as it stands up to prolonged moisture exposure without staining or discoloring. Polymer-modified sanded grout is another suitable option. Stay away from regular sanded cement grout.
Should you seal tile before installing in a steam shower?
Yes, applying a grout release or sealant to tiles before installation helps protect them from absorbing stains or moisture over time. Re-sealing the grout periodically after installation also maintains water resistance.
Is it better to use a tile contractor for a steam shower?
Hiring a professional tiling contractor experienced with steam shower installations is advisable. They can assess your space, suggest appropriate tile materials, handle tricky custom cuts, and ensure a waterproof installation that will last for many years of steamy enjoyment.
Conclusion
Installing tile in a home steam shower requires careful product selection and proper installation to ensure lasting beauty and function. Focus on choosing inherently water-resistant tiles in moisture-friendly sizes and textures. Complement with suitable grout and routine sealing. With some thoughtful planning upfront, you can create a gorgeously tiled steam shower retreat customized to your unique taste.
