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How to Subway Tile a Shower: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you’re ready to elevate your bathroom with the timeless elegance of subway tile in your shower? Excellent choice! Installing subway tile yourself can be a rewarding DIY project, adding value and style to your home. But it requires careful planning, precise execution, and a bit of elbow grease. Here’s the breakdown:

The core process of subway tiling a shower involves these steps:

Preparation is Paramount: Ensure your shower walls are structurally sound, plumb, and waterproof. This means installing a cement backer board like HardieBacker or Durock over the studs, taping and mudding the seams, and then applying a waterproof membrane, such as RedGard or Kerdi. Let it cure completely.
Planning Your Layout: Dry-fit your tiles to determine the best layout. Consider starting with a full tile at the most visible corner and working your way outwards. This minimizes awkward cuts in prominent areas. Mark your horizontal and vertical reference lines with a level and pencil.
Mixing Your Mortar: Use a modified thin-set mortar specifically designed for tile and wet environments. Mix it according to the manufacturer’s instructions, achieving a peanut butter-like consistency.
Applying the Mortar: Using a notched trowel (typically a 1/4″ x 1/4″ square notch is sufficient for subway tile), apply a thin, even layer of mortar to a small section of the wall (about 2-3 square feet). The notch size is crucial for achieving proper mortar coverage behind the tiles.
Setting the Tiles: Press each tile firmly into the mortar with a slight twisting motion to ensure good adhesion. Use tile spacers (typically 1/16″ or 1/8″) to maintain consistent grout lines.
Cutting Tiles: Use a wet saw for precise cuts around fixtures, corners, and the shower floor. Always wear safety glasses when operating a wet saw.
Letting the Mortar Cure: Allow the mortar to cure for the manufacturer’s recommended time, typically 24-48 hours.
Removing Spacers: Carefully remove the tile spacers.
Grouting: Mix your grout according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a grout float to apply the grout to the tile surface, forcing it into the grout lines.
Cleaning Excess Grout: After about 15-30 minutes, use a damp sponge to wipe away excess grout from the tile surface. Rinse the sponge frequently.
Polishing: Once the grout has partially dried (hazed), use a clean, dry cloth to polish the tiles and remove any remaining grout residue.
Sealing the Grout: After the grout has fully cured (typically 72 hours), apply a grout sealer to protect it from water damage and staining.

Preparing Your Shower for Subway Tile

Ensuring a Waterproof Base

The most crucial step is creating a waterproof barrier. This is not an area to skimp on. A leaking shower can cause significant structural damage to your home. This is why the cement backer board installation followed by a waterproof membrane is essential. RedGard, Kerdi, and similar products create a flexible, waterproof layer that prevents water from penetrating the walls. Pay close attention to corners and seams, using the manufacturer’s recommended methods for sealing these areas.

Choosing the Right Materials

Selecting the correct materials is key to a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing result. Opt for high-quality subway tiles that are specifically designed for shower use. Consider the type of mortar and grout; both should be mold and mildew resistant. Choose stainless steel or coated fasteners for attaching the backer board to avoid rust.

Laying Your Subway Tile

Mastering the Mortar Application

Applying the mortar correctly is an art form. Too much mortar, and your tiles will be uneven. Too little, and they won’t adhere properly. Hold the notched trowel at a 45-degree angle to the wall and apply even pressure to create consistent ridges in the mortar. Only apply mortar to an area you can tile within about 15-20 minutes, as the mortar will start to skin over.

Achieving Perfect Alignment

The beauty of subway tile lies in its uniform grid pattern. Use a laser level to ensure your horizontal and vertical lines are perfectly straight. Periodically check your work with a level to make sure the tiles remain aligned as you progress. Adjustments can be made while the mortar is still wet.

Cutting Tiles Like a Pro

A wet saw is your best friend when it comes to cutting tiles. Practice on scrap pieces first to get a feel for the saw. Always wear safety glasses and ear protection. For intricate cuts around pipes or fixtures, consider using a tile nipper to carefully chip away small pieces of tile.

Finishing Touches: Grouting and Sealing

Grouting Techniques for a Flawless Finish

Grouting can be messy, but it’s essential for creating a waterproof and visually appealing surface. Work in small sections, applying the grout liberally and forcing it into the grout lines. Remove excess grout with a damp sponge, rinsing frequently. Avoid using too much water, as this can weaken the grout.

Sealing for Longevity

Once the grout has cured, apply a high-quality grout sealer. This will protect the grout from staining, mold, and mildew, ensuring that your shower looks beautiful for years to come. Reapply the sealer every 6-12 months as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What type of backer board should I use for a shower?
Cement backer board, such as HardieBacker or Durock, is the preferred choice for shower walls. It is water-resistant and provides a solid substrate for tiling. Never use drywall in a shower, as it is not water-resistant and will quickly deteriorate.
Can I tile directly over existing tile in my shower?
While technically possible, it’s not recommended. Tiling over existing tile adds weight to the wall and can compromise the waterproof barrier. It’s best to remove the old tile and start with a clean, waterproof surface.
What size grout lines should I use for subway tile?
The most common grout line size for subway tile is 1/16″ or 1/8″. The size is a matter of personal preference, but smaller grout lines create a more modern look, while larger grout lines offer a more traditional aesthetic.
What type of grout should I use for a shower?
Use a sanded or unsanded grout mixed with a grout additive that contains mildewcide and mold inhibitors. The choice between sanded and unsanded grout depends on the grout line width. Unsanded grout is typically used for grout lines less than 1/8″ wide, while sanded grout is used for wider grout lines.
How do I prevent mold and mildew in my shower grout?
Use a mold-resistant grout, ensure proper ventilation in the shower, and regularly clean the grout with a mildew-killing cleaner. Sealing the grout also helps to prevent mold and mildew growth.
How long does it take to subway tile a shower?
The time required varies depending on the size of the shower and your experience level. A typical shower can take 2-4 days to complete, including preparation, tiling, grouting, and sealing.
What tools do I need to subway tile a shower?
You’ll need a wet saw, notched trowel, grout float, tile spacers, level, pencil, measuring tape, sponge, bucket, safety glasses, and gloves.
How much does it cost to subway tile a shower?
The cost depends on the price of the materials and whether you hire a professional. DIYing can save money, but it requires time and effort. Material costs can range from $5 to $15 per square foot, depending on the quality and type of tile. Professional installation can add an additional $5 to $15 per square foot.
What should I do if my tiles are uneven after installation?
If the mortar is still wet, you can gently tap the higher tiles down with a rubber mallet. If the mortar has already dried, you may need to remove the uneven tiles and re-install them.
How do I properly seal the corners of my shower walls?
Use a silicone caulk specifically designed for showers. Apply a bead of caulk to the corner and smooth it with your finger or a caulk smoothing tool. Ensure that the caulk is compatible with both the tile and the backer board.
What if my shower walls aren’t perfectly plumb?
Slight imperfections can be addressed by adjusting the thickness of your mortar bed as you install the tile. For more significant deviations, you might need to fur out the wall with shims before installing the backer board. Consult a professional if you’re unsure how to handle this.
What is the best way to clean subway tile in the shower?
Regularly clean your subway tile with a mild soap and water solution. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, as they can scratch the tile. For tougher stains, you can use a grout cleaner or a solution of baking soda and water. Dry the tiles after each shower to prevent water spots and mildew growth.

Subway tiling a shower is a project that demands meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to following the correct procedures. However, with careful planning and execution, you can create a beautiful and durable shower that you’ll enjoy for years to come. Remember to always prioritize waterproofing to protect your home from water damage. Good luck!