How to Install a Ceramic Tile Bathroom

Installing ceramic tile in your bathroom can make a dramatic difference in its appearance. There is an unlimited combination of colors and patterns that fit any style. While some projects are difficult, tiling a bathroom shower can be done with minimal difficulty.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Chalk line
• Level
• Pencil
• Battens
• Screws
• Drill and bit
• Thinset adhesive
• Notched trowel
• Rubber grout float
• Spacers
• Masking tape
• Tile cutter

Instructions

1. Start with the back wall of the shower. It is the one most visible and needs the most attention. Use the tape measure to find the vertical and horizontal centers of the wall. Mark them with the chalk line and make sure they are level.

2. Measure up one tile and grout line from the bottom of the shower and make a level, horizontal mark. Use the drill and screw to install a batten strip under the line. This will provide temporary support for the tiles and prevent them from sagging.

3. Using the straight edge of the trowel, apply the thinset in a smooth, even layer. Use the notched side to comb out the adhesive in even ribs. The adhesive should have a recommended notch size. Check the label to verify the setting time. On large walls, you may need to do small sections at a time to make sure the adhesive does not set before the tile is applied.

4. Set the second row of tile first. Lay the tiles square to the vertical chalk line and batten. Put spacers in between each tile to ensure consistent grout lines and support. Set a full row of horizontal tiles to the corner.

5. At the end of the row, you may have to cut a tile to fit. Set a tile on the last tile of the row to mark the corner piece, allowing for a grout seam. Trim using a tile cutter. The design will look best if the tiles in the corners on opposite walls are the same size.

6. After the tiles are set, remove the batten strip and repeat the steps for installing the first row. You can use spacers or masking tape to make sure the tiles are centered and evenly spaced. After the first row is set, go back and put a row of caulk around the bottom of the tile.

7. After the adhesive sets, usually overnight, remove the spacers and use a rubber grout float to spread grout over and into the seams. Make sure the grout fills the spaces fully and there are no gaps.

   Tiling a shower can make a big difference in your bath. Ceramic tiles can be found in many colors and patterns and are easy to clean and very durable.

Tips & Warnings

• Work on one wall at a time. Where the wall extends past the shower, use a bullnose tile to stop the tile.

• Tiling a shower ceiling is different and should be left for professionals.

References

• Ultimate Guide to Ceramic Tile and Stone; Creative Homeowner; 2001