Replacing old tile in the shower may add value to your home.
Tiling a shower can change the complete look of a bathroom. There are many different designs and styles of tiles on the market. Showers that are tiled set the mood for the rest of the bathroom. Tiling a shower may seem intimidating but it does not have to be. The key is making sure you have the area already prepared with a vapor barrier and cement backer board. This will help protect the tile and keep your work from falling apart later. The finished shower will be well worth the effort.
Instructions
1. Create a chalk line for the first row of tile by measuring 2 inches from the bottom of the backer board, and mark the location with a pencil. Repeat at several locations around the bottom of the shower. Stretch the chalk line between each of the marks and lightly snap the line against the backer board to form a chalk line.
2. Dampen the cement backer board with a sponge under the chalk line.
3. Apply tile mortar to the first row of the cement backer, under the chalk line. Use a trowel and spread the mortar on the surface as if you are buttering bread with the smooth edge. The trowel should be at a 30-degree angle to allow the grout to lie evenly. Use the ridged edge of the trowel to comb the mortar at a 45-degree angle; this will create ridges in the mortar and allow the tile to set up better.
4. Attach the first row of tiles by pressing them into place. Once in place slightly wiggle the tile to help set the mortar. Make sure the tile is straight and repeat for the next tile. Insert spacers between the tiles to guarantee even spacing throughout the shower.
5. Allow the tile to set for 20 minutes and remove the spacers. Ensure the tiles are straight and allow to dry overnight. The mortar will not be completely dry at this time; it will however create a firm base line of tiles. This will hold the next rows in place.
6. Add the remaining tiles one row at a time until the complete shower is tiled. Continue to use spacers between each of the tiles to ensure all the tiles are evenly spaced.
7. Remove the spacers after the tiles have been in place for approximately 20 minutes, just as the mortar is starting to set up. Allow the mortar to dry 2 full days to make certain the tile and mortar are firmly stuck together.
8. Mix the grout according to the package directions. Allow the grout to activate for 10 minutes to ensure the chemicals are ready to adhere properly.
9. Apply the grout to the cracks in the tile by floating or pressing the grout into the cracks with the float at a 30-degree angle. Work on one small section at a time.
10. Allow the grout to set according to the package directions, usually 30 minutes.
11. Wipe away the excess grout with a clean, damp sponge. Use circular motions and gently wipe the top surface of the tile. Make sure not to press into the gaps between the tiles or it will remove the grout.
12. Allow the grout to cure for 48 hours before using the shower.
Tags: chalk line, backer board, Allow grout, cement backer, 30-degree angle