How to Install Accent Tile Around a Tub

Ceramic tile is generally used in moist spaces like bathrooms. Accent tile is tile designed to stand out from the main field of tile used to protect an area, like a bathtub surround, from moisture. Decorative accent tile may be a different color, texture, pattern or material than the main tile, but is generally installed at the same time as the main surround. The application of accent tile surrounding a tub is a straightforward task that can usually be completed by just about anyone with basic skills and tile-setting tools.

Things You'll Need

• Graph paper
• Pencil
• Pre-mixed thinset mortar
• Mastic trowel
• Accent tile
• Main tile
• Tile spacers (size may vary)
• 2-Foot level
• Tile saw
• Safety glasses
• Pre-mixed tile grout
• Rubber float trowel
• Large sponge

Instructions

1. Sketch out a design for your accent tile on a piece of graph paper. Accent tile, depending on its shape and size, may be used as a border around the edge of the main tile, sprinkled at regular or random intervals within the main tile, or, in the case of patterned tile, set in a block that creates a mini mural.

2. Install the main tiles along the top edge of the tub applying the pre-mixed thinset mortar (in 1/4-inch layers) to the backs of the tiles with the mastic trowel. Use the level to make sure your tile line is level. Space the tiles about 1/8-inch from each other and the top edge of the tub to allow for a grout joint, using tile spacers if necessary. Pre-mixed thinset is packaged for use and will not (in most cases) require any preparation. Cut the final tile of the row to fit if necessary, using the tile saw; wear the safety glasses whenever operating the tile saw, and refer to the tile saw owner's manual for operation and safety specifications.

3. Continue to tile, setting in accent tiles as they occur in your design scheme, until all tiling around the tub is complete.

4. Refer to the pre-mixed thinset mortar packaging for curing times, and allow the thinset to fully cure.

5. Apply the pre-mixed tile grout to the joints between all tiles and the tub, using the rubber float trowel.

6. Wipe the excess grout from the tiles, using the large sponge, and rinsing (the sponge) as necessary.

References

• "Tile Your World: John Bridge's New Tile Setting Book;" John P. Bridge; 2003