Remodeling a shower stall with tile can completely transform the look and feel of your bathroom. With the right planning and preparation, you can create a stunning new shower space with custom tile that suits your style. Follow this comprehensive guide to learn all the steps for remodeling a shower stall with tile.
Selecting Tile for Your Shower Remodel
Choosing the right tile is one of the most important decisions for your shower remodel. With so many options for colors, textures, sizes, and materials, it can feel overwhelming. Keep the following tile considerations in mind:
Tile Material
- Ceramic: Classic option; available in endless colors/styles. Prone to chipping. Avoid glossy surface.
- Porcelain: Similar look as ceramic but denser and more water-resistant. Good for high-traffic areas.
- Glass: Elegant and modern. Can be expensive. Prone to limescale buildup.
- Natural Stone: Marble, travertine, etc. High-end look but needs sealing. Avoid dark stones that show soap scum.
For showers, porcelain and ceramic tiles tend to be the most popular choices. Select tiles rated for flooring/wet areas.
Tile Size
Common sizes:
- Mosaic: 1-2 inches
- Standard: 4-6 inches
- Large Format: 12 inches or larger
Larger tiles like 12×24 can create a seamless, spacious look. Smaller tiles allow more design flexibility.
Tile Texture
Consider traction, ease of cleaning, and aesthetic appeal:
- Polished: Slippery when wet, shows water marks
- Honed: Slight sheen, less slippery
- Textured: Provides traction, hides soap scum
Textured tiles are often best for shower floors. Use caution with polished or glass tiles.
Tile Color
Lighter tiles reflect light and create a feeling of openness. Dark tiles can make a small shower feel closed in. Accent colors add vibrancy.
Tile Pattern
- Subway: Classic brick pattern
- Herringbone: Angled pattern, sense of movement
- Hexagon: Unique geometric look
- Penny Round: Vintage feel, can be prone to grout issues
Play with patterns or keep it simple with a classic subway layout.
Grout Considerations
Lighter grout resists staining/discoloration better than darker grout. Epoxy grout is an ultra-durable option but can be tricky to work with.
Budget
Porcelain, ceramic, mosaic tiles tend to be the most budget-friendly options. Natural stone, large format, handmade tiles have a higher price point.
Planning Your Shower Layout
Take measurements and sketch out ideas beforefinalizing the layout:
- Measure the shower stall space carefully. Include niche and bench locations.
- Map out tile placement, considering aesthetic appeal and avoiding narrow tiles.
- Determine tile row layout to minimize cuts. Use full tiles around fixed elements like the niche.
- For walk-in showers, decide if you want the tile to run seamlessly from walls to floor or place a tile border.
- Decide if you want accent tiles, mosaic inserts, or borders to create interest.
Create a detailed plan for your tile setter to follow during installation.
Selecting the Right Materials
In addition to tile, be sure to select appropriate materials for waterproofing, grout, and tile backer:
Waterproofing Membrane
A waterproofing membrane creates a watertight seal behind finished tile. Options:
- PVC sheet membrane: Reliable, affordable option
- Liquid applied membrane: Flexible, seamless coverage
- Pre-sloped pan system: Integrated slope for drainage
Tile Backer Board
Backer board provides a stable, moisture-resistant surface for tile installation. Use cement board or fiber-cement board. Avoid drywall.
Grout
Choose an appropriate grout for joints between tiles based on tile material and location. Epoxy grout is extremely durable.
Mortar
Mortar adheres the tile to the shower walls and floor. Use a polymer-modified mortar for a stronger bond.
Sealant
A flexible sealant like silicone caulk fills any movement joints, gaps, or changes in plane.
Demolition: Removing the Old Shower
Demolishing the existing shower is an important first step before installing tile. Follow these steps:
Turn Off Water Supply Lines
Locate the shut-off valves for the shower and turn off the hot and cold water supply lines. Open the shower valve to release pressure.
Remove Existing Fixtures
Take out the old shower head, handles, soap dish, shelves, doors, and tracks. Watch for concealed fasteners or screws.
Remove Surrounding Materials
Carefully demolish surrounding drywall, tile, or fiberglass enclosure using a pry bar, hammer, utility knife, or multi-tool.
Remove Old Drain
Unscrew the drain collar and push the drain down to dislodge it. You may need to chisel around a metal drain.
Knock Down Substrate
Knock down and remove any backer board, mortar bed, or masonry shower pan from the walls and floor.
Inspect for Hidden Issues
Inspect for leaks, dry rot, or other hidden issues once all finishes are removed. Address any underlying problems before retiling.
Dispose of Debris
Remove all demolished materials and thoroughly sweep and vacuum the bare shower stall space before moving forward.
Shower Pan Installation
For optimal drainage, the shower pan provides a pre-sloped substrate to allow water to run to the drain.
Mortar Bed Pan
- Slope mortar bed 1/4 inch per foot towards the drain using a screed board.
- Pack mortar tightly and allow to fully cure before waterproofing.
Prefabricated Pan
- Install as per manufacturer instructions. Often consist of foam or plastic.
- Slope is pre-integrated; simply drop in and level.
Concrete Preslope
- Have a contractor pour a properly sloped concrete substrate.
- Quicker and easier than building a mortar bed.
Install Cement Backer Board
Cement or fiber-cement backer board provides a stable base for tile installation. Follow all manufacturer guidelines.
Cut Boards to Size
Use a utility knife and straightedge to cut boards to fit the shower walls and curb.
Fasten with Screws
Attach boards with specialized cement board screws, spaced 4-6 inches apart across studs.
Treat Joints and Corners
Fill all board joints and inside/outside corners with mesh tape and thinset mortar.
Seal Edges
Seal any untaped board edges bordering the shower pan with waterproof silicone.
Apply Waterproofing Membrane
Proper waterproofing is crucial. Cover all surfaces, including the shower pan, walls, and curb with membrane:
Liquid-Applied Membrane
- Roll or trowel on 2-3 coats as per manufacturer instructions.
- Extend membrane 6 inches beyond shower on all sides.
- Allow 12-24 hours drying time between coats.
PVC Sheet Membrane
- Cut sheets to overlap seams by 2 inches.
- Adhere to subfloor and walls with thinset mortar.
- Seal all seams, corners, and edges with seam tape.
Install Drain
- Clean shower pan and trim membrane around drain hole.
- Attach new drain assembly per instructions.
- Seal membrane around drain flange with silicone.
Tile Layout: Measure, Mark, and Snap Lines
Careful tile layout is crucial for a professional looking install. Always double check measurements.
- Dry lay tiles on the floor to determine optimal layout.
- Mark the center point of each wall. Use a level to draw plumb vertical reference lines.
- Based on tile size, mark horizontal rows along the reference lines, equally spacing tiles.
- Snap perpendicular chalk lines through the reference marks to create a grid.
- Dry lay tiles along grid to ensure straight, balanced layout with intended grout lines.
Mixing Thinset Mortar
Follow instructions for mixing and using the thinset mortar adhesive:
- Pour measured clean water into a bucket.
- Slowly add mortar powder while mixing with a paddle mixer.
- Blend until smooth with no lumps; adjust consistency if needed.
- Allow to slake for 10 minutes, then re-mix before using.
Caution: Do not add too much water, as this weakens the bond strength.
Installing Wall Tile
Once layout lines are snapped, you’re ready to start tiling the walls:
- Apply a thin skim coat of mortar with the flat side of the trowel.
- Use the notched edge of the trowel to comb lines through mortar.
- Press tiles firmly into place along the horizontal lines, using spacers for consistent grout joints.
- Work in small sections, three tiles high. Level and plumb tiles frequently.
- Cut edge and accent tiles to fit with a wet saw as needed.
- Let mortar cure 24 hours before grouting.
Installing Shower Floor Tile
Follow a similar process as the walls to achieve a flat, sloped tiled floor:
- Spread thinset and notch trowel lines in workable sections.
- Set tiles in the pattern established by your layout lines.
- Use a level across tiles to ensure an even plane with proper slope.
- Tile up to the shower door threshold but leave space under it for drainage.
- Mix 2-3 mortar colors to avoid visible moisture differences in cured mortar.
Grouting Tile Joints
Grout fills the joints between tiles, finishing off your installation:
Mix and Apply Grout
- Mix grout per package directions. Use caution not adding too much water.
- Holding a rubber grout float at 45°, force grout into tile joints.
- Drag float diagonally across tiles to fill any low spots.
Clean Excess Grout
- Allow grout to firm up slightly and haze over (15-30 minutes).
- Use a damp sponge to clean grout off the tile surface.
- Change rinse water often to prevent smearing.
- Use a small stiff brush to clean grout out of corners.
- Allow grout to fully cure 24-48 hours before using shower.
- Apply grout sealer if desired for extra protection.
Caulking and Sealing the Shower
Finish your new tile shower install using quality sealant and caulk:
- Clean all joints before applying caulk or sealant.
- Use 100% silicone caulk at changes in plane and tile-to-wall joints.
- Caulk control/expansion joints around perimeter with backer rod and caulk.
- Apply tub and tile caulk at non-water exposed joints like corner bead.
- Use a mildew-resistant silicone at joints between tile and sinks/tubs.
- Let all caulk fully cure 24-48 hours before exposing to water.
Install Shower Fixtures and Accessories
The finishing touches involve re-installing all shower fixtures and accessories:
- Set shower door threshold in silicone caulk and attach door per manufacturer.
- Mount new or polished original showerhead, faucet, valves, and handles.
- Hang shower caddies, hooks, shelves, and rods securely on walls.
- Re-attach any niche shelving, ensuring a waterproof seal around edges.
- Caulk all edges and joints between accessories and tile surfaces.
- Consider applying grout sealer to finished joints before using shower.
With careful planning, high-quality materials, and proper installation techniques, you can create a stunning, durable tiled shower perfect for relaxing and rejuvenating.
Frequently Asked Questions About Remodeling a Shower with Tile
What type of tile is best for shower walls?
Porcelain and ceramic tiles are most commonly used for shower walls. They offer endless design options and stand up well to moisture when properly sealed. Avoid natural stone, which requires more maintenance.
How do I waterproof behind shower tiles?
Install a waterproofing membrane like a PVC sheet or liquid applied product over the entire shower substrate before tiling. This prevents leaks and moisture damage behind finished walls.
Should shower floor tile have a rough or smooth surface?
A textured or porous tile surface provides better traction and slip resistance for shower floors. Polished tiles can become dangerously slick when wet.
How long does tiled shower remodel take?
Expect a tiled shower remodel to take 2-4 weeks depending on the scope of work. Demolition takes 1-2 days. New tile install typically progresses at a rate of 10-15 square feet per day.
Can I install 12×24 tiles on my shower walls?
Yes, large format 12×24 inch tiles can look beautiful on shower walls. The tile must be rated for wet area usage. Use caution to ensure proper support and flatness across the entire surface.
What slope does a shower floor need?
Shower floor should slope 1/4 inch per foot towards the drain for proper drainage and prevent standing water. A pre-sloped mortar bed or shower pan provides this slope.
How soon can I use newly tiled shower?
Allow 24-48 hours for thinset mortar and grout to fully cure before exposing tiles to water and using the shower. Check for any dry or cracked grout and re-grout if needed.
Conclusion
Remodeling a shower with tile lets you create a custom look perfect for your bath. Focus on waterproofing, proper materials, careful layout, and professional installation techniques for optimal results. With the right planning and preparation, you can enjoy a gorgeous new tiled shower designed to last for years of daily use.
