Tiling a shower benefits you both aesthetically and practically. It customizes your shower. When you tile a bathroom in the exemplary aspects, It updates the overall look of your bathroom.
A while ago, people hesitated about tiling in the bathroom because it could lead to leakage. But nowadays, waterproofed materials have eliminated people’s fear of leaking.
Whether renovating your bathroom or just updating the shower, this guide will give you everything you need to know to complete the job.
Why to tile a shower?
Several reasons make tiling a shower a clever pick. It’s the best value for money that furnish durability and aesthetics. Smooth tiling makes it easy to clean the shower.
Before initiating tiling of your bathroom, it is recommended to acknowledge that the installation meets your specific requirements while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the overall bathroom
Here are some reasons why tiling your shower is a wise preference:
- Tiles are predominantly made from resilient materials, making them durable and prolonged lifespans. Tiling is a one-time expense. Installing tiles is a one-time cost, and their water resistance makes them a superior option for bathroom floor and wall coverings. A tiled shower can last many years with proper installation and maintenance.
- Tiling is available in numerous designs, colours, patterns, and finishes. This providing you the freedom to customize your shower according to your preference. With a good eye for choice, one can enhance the aesthetics of their bathroom by incorporating the perfect tiling design.
- Unlike the other floorings, tiling a shower requires less maintenance. Since they’re smooth so they’re easy to clean. Tiles do not absorb soap scum, mold, or any other residue, thus proving to be a hygienic solution.
When to Tile your shower?
Tile replacement or installation within a designated bathroom area only requires a few hours for completion. However, it is crucial to ensure the installation area is thoroughly dried, as dampness can hinder the proper adhesion of the tiles. And if one or two tiles are broken, the homeowners can easily replace them within a few minutes.
But if you plan for tiling a shower entirely, several crucial factors come into play. Firstly, your budget, and time required for completion. Another critical consideration is the selection of appropriate materials and the availability of contractors essential for effective execution.
It is advisable to check for any leaks or electrical or plumbing issues and repair them before tiling a shower. This ensures that tiling work can be executed smoothly and prevents potential damage to the finished project due to pre-existing problems.
Type of Tiles for bathroom
Tiles come in a wide variety. But all tiles are not suitable for damp places like a bathroom. It is crucial to consider the water-resistant properties of tiles when tiling a shower. Certain tiles like glass, ceramic, and natural stones are highly durable and resistant to water damage. Each tile type has its own set of benefits and drawbacks.
Here are some of the most common types for tiling a shower.
01. Ceramic tiles
Ceramic tiles are made using materials like clay, sand, and rocks. They resist water and stains, which makes them a favorite for tiling a shower. Additionally, ceramic tiles come in different colors and designs. This makes them adaptable to different bathroom styles. The prices are also affordable in comparison to other bathroom tiles.
02. Porcelain tiles
Porcelain tiles exhibit properties similar to ceramic tiles, while puffing enhanced durability due to their thinner body. Their low water absorption rate and resultant water resistance suit them for high-moisture places like bathrooms. Porcelain tiles can be used on both walls and floors.
03. Natural stone tiles
Natural stone tiles, such as marble, granite, and travertine, are considered luxurious for shower walls and floors. They show unique and natural beauty but are typically more expensive. And they require more maintenance as compared to ceramic or porcelain tiles. Natural stone tiles are also more absorbent, making them more susceptible to water damage and stains.
04. glass tiles
Compared to ceramic tiles, glass tiles are typically more expensive; however, they offer a wide range of colors and sizes, making them an attractive choice when tiling a shower. They are easy to install and clean but require more maintenance than other tile options. Glass tiles are prone to scratches if not handled carefully during the cleaning.
05. Mosaic tiles
Mosaic tiles are usually small in size(2×2 or smaller) and square-shaped tiles that can create complex and detailed patterns on shower walls and floors. Their size makes them specific else; they are available in different materials, including ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, and glass.
Tiling a shower
Tiling a shower requires professional expertise and a significant amount of time. To ensure optimal results, it is advisable to hire professional services rather than attempting it yourself. Before starting tiling work, switching off the bathroom’s electricity and removing all other accessories, such as the shower standing handle and faucet, is compulsory. Additionally, the bathroom floor must be arid and clean before beginning the tiling process.
01. Prepare Your Shower
To initiate tiling in a bathroom, it is crucial to thoroughly clean and remove all debris from the floor and walls. Eliminating the previously installed tiles using a scraper is recommended. After cleaning, make sure that the bathroom is adequately dried. Because excess dampness can negatively affect the tiling.
02. Measure the Shower
Use a measuring tape to accurately measure the walls and floors in your bathroom to estimate the required number of tiles. Purchase the tiles from a reputable supplier based on your calculations. It is advisable to purchase 10-15 more tiles than you need, as there is often breakage or other issues during the fitting process.
03. Choose Your Tile
Before purchasing tiles for a bathroom tiling project, it is crucial to determine the tiles’ layout, design, and size. Additionally, It. is important to designate which tiles will be placed on the walls and floor. As previously discussed, knowing and understanding the available types of tiles is beneficial in achieving wished outcomes. By adequately planning, the purchasing tiles becomes more streamlined, and the desired aesthetic goals can be achieved.
04. Install the Tile
To begin tiling a bathroom, apply a thin layer of mortar to the surface area. Next, apply adhesive to the back of the tiles and press them firmly onto the mortar layer. Use a spacer to ensure even placement and a tile cutter for corners and edges.
After tiling, prepare the grout mixture and fill in the gaps between the tiles. Remove excess grout using a sponge or clean cloth. Letting the tiles dry for at least 48 hours before using the bathroom is crucial to prevent any damage
Grout is a dense fluid that constructors use to fill gaps between existing structures, such as tiles.
05. Seal the Tile
To make the tiles resistant to water damage, seal them after fitting and grouting. Apply a tile sealant to the tiles, covering them entirely. Allow the sealant to dry completely before using the bathroom. It is recommended to purchase a suitable tile sealant from a reputable supplier to ensure its effectiveness.
cost of tiling a shower
The cost of tiling in the bathroom depends on various factors, such as the size of the bathroom, the quality, and type of tiles, labor charges, and other materials. Suitable quality tiles typically cost between $1 to $50 per square foot. This variance is because ceramic or porcelain tiles are less expensive, while natural stone or glass tiles are more expensive.
Moreover, the expense of labor is another significant factor. Experienced labor usually charges $5 to $10 per square foot for tiling services. Additional expenses, such as grout, mortar, or sealant, require separate costs.