A guide to tile your shower for your 2023 renovation

2023 is here and it’s time to upgrade your bathroom space for the rest of the year. Where to start? A freshly-tiled shower would be a great way to add beauty to your bathroom. You can tile a shower yourself, but doing so will take a lot of effort and time. Also, tiling a wet area would require many considerations, such as waterproofing and grouting.

How to tile your shower space? 

With the right products and techniques, you can overhaul your shower into a beautiful and leak-proof space. Here are some simple steps to get started.

Step 1: Plan the layout

Planning the tile layout means determining everything from the tile shape and size to the type and texture. Opt for a tile pattern that complements your bathroom. You can go with subway tiles that are usually laid in a brickwork pattern for a traditional look or in a grid-like pattern for a more contemporary feel. Other options include ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles and quarry tiles.

Step 2: Prepare your shower

Before you tile your shower, it’s important to prepare the space. This includes assessing the existing shower and clearing the area. If there are any old wall or floor tiles, remove them. Also, lay down a waterproof membrane on the floor if you are fitting or re-using an existing shower tray. It may help you prevent any moisture that runs under the tray from getting further.

Step 3: Install a backer board

A backer board is used in wet areas only. It should be of the same thickness as the drywall. The best wall material for the shower is a cement backer board, which is water-resistant and provides a strong base for natural stone tiles. Be sure to measure the shower area and cut the board to the right fit. You might need a helper when installing it. Mark the studs before installing, so that you know where to drill.

Step 4: Mark the tiles

Time to mark your tiles, which requires marking the vertical and horizontal layout of your tiles. This will help you work in an even pattern. Measure one of your tiles and mark the centre of each wall and the floor. Start in the centre and mark each tile in one horizontal and one vertical line. Use a leveller to ensure you are working in a straight line. Leave around ½” space in between each tile to grout the joints.

Step 5: Lay the tiles

When you’re fitting the tiles, make sure you level the faces. Otherwise, it will spoil the overall look. Try not to cover more than one square metre at a time. This is because the adhesive may start to harden. Keep adding more adhesive and tiles until you need to finish off with cut tiles. Don’t forget to wipe off any splashes of adhesive with a damp cloth. Continue this process for the entire wall and floor.

Step 6: Grout the tiles

Once you are done adding edge tiles to your shower wall and floor, run grout across the face of the tiles using a rubber grout float. Pull the grout diagonally across the tiles and fill all gaps you see. Also, you will need to seal the grout in your shower after it has dried. This can be done by applying grout sealant to the floor tiles.

Step 7: Let the tiles dry

Finally, allow the tiles to dry for at least 48 hours. This would help you assure that the grout and adhesive have bonded properly to the backer board.

When to hire a professional installer?

Tiling a shower is a precise task and requires large quantities of water, adhesive and tiles that must be managed without making any errors. Everything from cutting tiles for corners and sides to the draining part can be time-consuming to get right.

So, if you feel that you don’t have the time and patience, hire professional installers. They will help you renovate your shower to a perfectly dry area and ensure that the finished product is waterproof and beautiful.

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