How to Properly Install Shower Tiles

When debating how to tile a shower, first you must make sure that the underlying sheetrock is satisfactory. If you are tiling over new construction, this will not be a concern. If you are remodeling or tiling in lieu of making patch repairs, ensure that the sheetrock is not damaged. The next step is to gather all of your materials and tools. Do not forget to use a level to help maintain straight lines. You will also need your tiles, waterproof mastic, a trowel, tile cutter, and caulk. Silicone caulking is best for around the tub-line or at the drain pan seam.

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Now is not the time to determine how to change a shower faucet. The shower hardware & plumbing should be installed prior to the tiling process. Remove only the faucet handles and showerhead to make tiling easier. Placement of your first row of shower tiles will determine the entire job's success. From the highest part of the tub, measure up 1/8 inch. With your level, mark a straight line around the circumference of the surface to be tiled. This is your start line. Spread your mastic on the wall section and use the grooved tip of the trowel to make diagonal lines. Do not cover the entire wall at once or the mastic will dry prior to you placing the tiles.

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Firmly place your tiles on the mastic using your guide line. Leave a 1/8 space between tiles for grout. Use the rounded edge tiles for the final row at the top. Remember that you will need to use the tile cutter to fit around shower hardware and where a full tile is too large. Once all of the tiles are in place, you must let the mastic cure for at least twenty-four hours. After curing, grout in between each of the shower tiles. Apply a silicone bead between the bottom row and the tub. Once the grout has cured, use a silicone based glaze to protect the grout from moisture and mildew. Now that you have learned how to tile a shower, you can move on to your next project.

How to Properly Install Shower Tiles

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