How to Tile a Shower

1. Introduction

Adam Esparza, a professional tiler in California, explains different methods of setting tile: using tile backer board, which is speedy and effective, and using the traditional mortar bed (also known as “mud”), which emphasizes craftsmanship and detail.

2. Using Backer Board: How To Use a Story Pole for Tile Layout

Adam lays the ceramic tiles on a story pole—a board that shares dimensions with the wall—so he can take measurements and envision the finished product.

3. Using Backer Board: Floor Tile Layout

Repeating the same story pole method he used for the floor tiles, Adam reviews the layout, then measures and marks the tiles before installation.

4. Using Backer Board: Waterproofing Shower Walls

Learn how to waterproof shower walls by installing foam backer board, cloth, and a crack prevention membrane.

5. Using Backer Board: Waterproofing Shower Floors

Learn how to waterproof shower floors with an uncoupling mat, V-notch trowel, and thinset. Plus: how to mix and apply thinset.

6. Using Backer Board: Final Layout

Before installation, Adam reviews the offset tile layout one last time, then safely cuts the tiles with a water saw.

7. Using Backer Board: How to Install Wall Tiles

Using a laser level, thinset, and notched trowel, Adam installs wall tiles and creates precise grout joints with tile spacers.

8. Using Backer Board: How to Tile Inside Corners

Learn to arrange, measure, and cut tiles for a clean, continuous pattern where two walls meet.

9. Using Backer Board: How to Install Floor Tile

Adam ensures each floor tile receives full and even thinset coverage.

10. Using Backer Board: How To Grout Tile

Adam notes the differences between various types of grout. He shows how to evenly grout tile and wash up for a professional finish.

11. Mortar Bed: Waterproofing Walls

Adam creates a mitered shower niche in the wall framing and installs waterproof paper and bituthene to protect the walls.

12. Mortar Bed: Wall Foundation

Learn how to apply metal lathe to the shower walls, which helps grip the mud and keep the tiles in place.

13. Mortar Bed Wall Scratch Coat

Using a notch trowel and cement mix, Adam mixes and applies the first coat of mud on the foundation, called the “scratch coat.”

14. Mortar Bed: Waterproofing Subfloor

Learn to waterproof a subfloor, which involves installing waterproof paper and metal lathe to create a sealed barrier.

15. Mortar Bed: Leveling with Dry Pack

Adam shows how to dry pack the floor: Apply a thick layer of cement and sand over the lathe to create a level bed for the tile.

16. Mortar Bed: Final Wall Coat

Adam mixes and applies the final mud coat to the shower walls. He explains which ratio of sand to lime to cement is best for a final-coat mixture.

17. Mortar Bed: Wall Installation

Learn to install wall tiles from top to bottom using a laser measure, thinset, and trowel.

18. Mortar Bed: Miter Niche Exterior Installation

Learn to install tiles around a mitered shower niche for a seamless pattern.

19. Mortar Bed: Shower Niche Interior Installation

Adam tiles the back interior of the mitered shower niche, measuring, cutting, and placing the tiles in a continuous pattern.

20. Mortar Bed: Shower Niche Side Installation

Learn to install tile inside the mitered niche by using thinset and mud for tightly sealed corners.

21. Mortar Bed: Floor Installation

Adam shows how to tile a mortar bed floor, which includes applying thinset, laying tiles, and cutting the pieces so the layout fits the space perfectly.

22. Conclusion

Patience is key to honing one’s craft. Adam shares advice for becoming a professional tiler, and how to follow your passion.