How to Install a Ceramic Corner Piece in a Tile Shower

Accessories for a bathtub or shower, like corner shelves, soap dishes and small washcloth bars are available in attractive ceramic styles. Ceramic corner shelves are designed to either be set between tiles during installation of the wall tile work, or on top of tiles. Installing the type of ceramic corner piece that is intended to sit on top of existing tile is easier than installing corner pieces while tiling, as tiles will need to be cut with a special tile saw and affixed following procedures for ceramic tiling.

Things You'll Need

• Ceramic corner piece
• Pencil
• Mineral spirits
• Tile adhesive or 100 percent silicone
• Duct tape
• Straight edge blade

Instructions

1. Make sure the corner shelf fits snugly into the corner. It should touch on both sides at the desired height. Mark the height with a pencil.

2. Clean the existing tile with mineral spirits. Do the same to the back of the new corner accessory shelf.

3. Place a small amount of silicone or adhesive on the back of the shelf where it will touch the existing tile wall. Referencing the pencil mark for height, push the tile shelf tightly against the corner. Some excess silicone or tile adhesive may squeeze out, which is not a problem.

4. Put several pieces of duct tape on the shelf, long enough to adhere to the tile wall above for support. Do this at several locations. This will keep the shelf from falling while the adhesive is drying. Allow 24 hours for the adhesive to dry. Remove the tape. Trim the excess dried adhesive with a straight edge razor blade.

5. Apply colored caulk around the edge of the ceramic corner accessory for a finished look. This also will prevent water from getting behind the ceramic corner piece.

References

• Hometime.com Ceramic Tile
• Ask the Builder
• Building Solutions