Tiling a shower is an excellent way to enhance its appeal and may actually increase the overall value of any home. The size and the type of tiles used will be chosen according to taste. However, there are some valid considerations that should be taken into account when choosing tiles. To make the job easier it is best to opt for ceramic tiles instead of fully-vitrified porcelain tiles which are harder to cut. Select tiles that are smooth along the edges to make grouting easier. Also check to see that the tiles are similar in size. It is sometimes possible during the manufacturing process for tiles to expand and contract resulting in a variation of tile sizes. It is remarkably more beneficial to the amateur tiler to use tiles that are consistent in size and quality. The project should take no longer than three-four days and is certainly a worthwhile endeavour.
Required Tools
- Tile Cutter/Saw
- Hole Saw
- Crowbar or any other instrument to gut the shower stall.
- Trowel
- Measuring tape
- Level
- Marker
Required Materials
- Tiles
- Thinset
- Grout
- 100% caulk silicone sealant
- To start the process, gut the shower stall completely. The pan and ceiling may have to be removed also.
- Erect the cement board which will be the backing for the tiles. Cut the cement board to fit and screw it to the studs.
- Leave a small space of about 1/8th of an inch between the panels. Make holes in the areas where the shower head and faucets will pass through with a hole saw.
- Use shims behind the cement board to flush it with the lip of the shower pan to achieve desired thickness. Seal the seams that are showing between the panels with 100% silicone caulk bathroom sealant.
- Use a measuring tape to measure the length of a tile minus ½ of an inch from the base of the backer board. This allows a ½ inch overlap over the lip of the shower pan. Use a marker and level to draw a line across the shower stall. This ensures that the rows of tiles will be level when placed over the shower stall.
- Mix a substantial amount of thinset to use along the bottom row.
- Moisten the cement board with water using a sponge. This is important as it will guarantee that the board will not dry out the thinset which is being applied. If this is not done the tiles will not hold firmly to the board.
- Apply the thinset with a trowel. Place the tile over the thinset by slightly twisting the tile as it is being stuck to the thinset. Lift the tile and check to see that it is properly covered by the thinset. Reapply the tile and continue the same process with the other tiles using spacers between the tiles for symmetrical spacing. Allow to set for 24 hours.
- Continue applying other rows by first measuring from the last row and using a level and a marker to identify the top of each row. Apply the thinset as previously described and place the tiles over the thinset.
- It is likely that some tiles may have to be cut with a saw or tile cutter. Take that into consideration when measuring each row, making allowance for these adjustments.
- Allow the tiles to set for about forty eight hours.
- Mix the grout and use a sponge float to insert the grout into the unfilled joints. Once the grout is applied wipe away the extra grout with a wet cloth until clean.
- Seal the tiles after 24 hours.
Tips and Warnings
- Do not grout the shower completely, all at once. It will become hardened fairly quickly and more difficult to remove.
- Protect the drain by covering it with tape to avoid clogging the drain.
- Remove any items from the bathroom that may be damaged by the materials used.
For more information on How to Tile a Shower read:
How to Tile a Shower
How to Tile a Shower
Leave a Reply
