How High Should the Tile Be Around a Jacuzzi Tub?

Tile is the best material for around the tub.

Lay Tile 1 Foot High Around a Jacuzzi Tub

The tile around a jacuzzi tub should be at least 1 foot high, starting 1/8 inch above the edge of the tub. This 1/8-inch space is an expansion joint and will be filled with flexible caulk. Tile surrounds protect from moisture and splashes. Because jacuzzi tubs are larger than standard tubs, 1 foot of tile will keep in scale with the tub.

Any Tile is Unnecessary

Jacuzzi tub with decorative tile back splash.

A tile backsplash behind a jacuzzi tub is an unnecessary detail. Green backer board walls in areas with moisture, such as bathrooms, offer enough protection. However, if you do install tile, there is no minimum height requirement.

Bottom Line

A well-proportioned tile surround above the tub.

There is no building code requiring tile to be a certain height. If you are going to hang tile around a jacuzzi tub, use at least 12 inches of tile so it is in scale with the jacuzzi tub. Begin hanging it 1/8 inch above the tub, leaving room for an expansion joint. Tile offers timeless beauty and protects against moisture, above and beyond standard green backer board.

References

• The Tile Doctor: How To: Bath Tubs

Resources

• Decorate-Redecorate: Tile