How to Tile Shower Walls with Subway Tile
Subway tile is a classic choice for shower walls, offering a timeless look that complements a variety of bathroom styles. This guide will walk you through the steps of tiling your shower walls with subway tile, from preparation to finishing touches.
1. Gather your materials:
Before you begin, ensure you have the following materials:
- Subway tile: Calculate the square footage of your shower walls and purchase enough tile to cover the area, allowing for 10% waste.
- Thin-set mortar: This adhesive will bond the tile to the shower wall.
- Grout: Choose a grout color that complements your tile and is specifically designed for wet areas.
- Notched trowel: This tool helps apply thin-set mortar evenly to the wall.
- Tile spacers: These will ensure even grout lines between tiles.
- Tile cutter: This tool will be used to cut tiles to size for corners and other tight spots.
- Level: A level is essential for ensuring even tile installation.
- Measuring tape: Measure the area of your shower walls accurately.
- Safety gear: Wear safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask when working with tile and mortar.
- Other optional tools:
- Grout float: For applying grout smoothly.
- Grout sponge: For cleaning excess grout.
- Bucket: For mixing mortar and grout.
- Water-resistant caulk: For sealing the gaps between tiles and the shower floor.
2. Prepare the shower walls:
Before tiling, ensure your shower walls are clean, smooth, and ready for installation:
- Remove existing tile: If you're replacing old tile, carefully remove it using a hammer and chisel.
- Clean the walls: Wash the walls with a detergent solution and rinse thoroughly. Allow them to dry completely.
- Apply waterproof membrane: Apply a waterproof membrane, such as a liquid membrane or a shower pan liner, to protect the wall from moisture damage. This step is crucial for preventing leaks.
- Install backer board: Attach backer board (cement board) to the shower walls using screws or construction adhesive. This will provide a solid, moisture-resistant surface for the tile.
3. Layout the subway tile:
Before applying thin-set mortar, it's important to plan the tile layout:
- Start at a center point: Determine the center point of your shower wall and mark it with a pencil. This will ensure the tile layout is symmetrical.
- Establish a baseline: Use a level to mark a horizontal line for the bottom row of tile. This line will serve as your guide for keeping the tile installation straight.
- Dry lay the tile: Place the tiles along the baseline without adhesive to visualize the pattern and determine if any cuts are necessary.
4. Apply the thin-set mortar:
- Prepare the mortar: Mix the thin-set mortar according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Apply mortar to the wall: Use the notched trowel to spread a thin layer of mortar evenly across the wall, covering an area slightly larger than the tile.
- Press the tile in place: Start at the center point and work your way outward, pressing each tile firmly into the mortar. Use tile spacers to maintain consistent grout lines.
- Level each tile: Use a level to ensure the tiles are installed straight and level.
5. Cut tiles for corners and edges:
- Measure and mark: Use a measuring tape and pencil to mark the cut lines on the tiles that will be used for corners and edges.
- Cut the tile: Use a tile cutter to make clean, precise cuts.
- Install the cut tiles: Apply thin-set mortar and install the cut tiles, ensuring a tight fit with the other tiles.
6. Allow the mortar to cure:
- Leave the tiles undisturbed: Allow the mortar to cure for the amount of time specified on the manufacturer's instructions.
- Apply grout after curing: Once the mortar has cured, apply grout to the spaces between the tiles.
7. Apply grout:
- Mix the grout: Mix the grout according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Apply grout with a grout float: Use a grout float to press the grout firmly into the spaces between the tiles.
- Clean excess grout: Wipe away excess grout with a damp sponge.
- Allow the grout to dry: Allow the grout to dry for the amount of time specified on the manufacturer's instructions.
- Seal the grout: Apply a grout sealant to protect the grout from water and stains.
8. Caulk the edges:
- Apply caulk: Use a water-resistant caulk to seal the gaps between the tile and the shower pan, shower floor, and any other fixtures.
- Smooth the caulk: Use a damp finger or a caulk tool to smooth the caulk, ensuring a clean and professional finish.
9. Enjoy your beautiful tiled shower:
Once the caulk has cured, your tiled shower is ready for use. Take a moment to admire your hard work and enjoy the timeless beauty of subway tile.
Tips for success:
- Plan ahead: Carefully measure and plan your tile layout before you start installing.
- Use high-quality materials: Invest in quality tile, thin-set mortar, and grout to ensure a durable and beautiful shower.
- Take your time: Don't rush the installation process. Patience and precision will result in a professional-looking finish.
- Don't be afraid to ask for help: If you're not confident in your tiling skills, consider hiring a professional to install the tile for you.
