How to Tile a Shower
One of the things that add beauty and value to your house is a tiles shower. It is one of the first things prospective buyers look for. If your shower is properly tiled, the looks of the entire bathroom and thus the whole house improve. However, tiling a shower is not for everyone. It requires a lot of experience and a very sure hand to lay the tiles correctly. The following step-by-step directions will enable you to accomplish the job with beautiful result
Remove the Shower Stall
If the shower stall is already installed, remove all the hardware and ceiling and walls. Strip the stall to studs. You can skip this step if you have hired a contractor to strip the shower.
Install Cement Backer Board
This is the first step of tiling a shower. First tack a sheet of plastic over the studs to backing for the cement board. The cement backer board goes over this sheet. This will form the backing for the tiles.
Install the First Row
Mark the location of the first row of tiles. This should be done using a level so that this first row sits straight. This row should overlap the cement board instead of hitting the bottom. Let this row dry for about 24 hours.
Install the rest of the rows
Moving upward, continue setting the rows of tile. Use plastic spacers to maintain gaps between the rows. This is the most trying part of tilling a shower. Normally, the upper row will require cutting of tile to fix the topmost row. Let tile dry for 48 hours.
Grout the Tile
Mix a batch of grout and press it in open seams using a rubber or sponge float. This step is perhaps the most botched up part of tiling a shower. Wipe the excess grout after 30 minutes with a sponge. Use a circular motion so as not to disturb the grout between the seams.
Let the Grout Dry
 
While tiling a shower, failure to let the grout dry could mean that all of the labor so far has been in vain. Many DIY enthusiasts forget this small but essential detail in the hurry of finishing the job. The grout takes about 48 hours to dry completely. After this period, grout is dry enough to be sealed.
Seal the Grout
One of the overlooked steps is the sealing of grout. If you omit this detail, water will eventually work through the seams to the back of the tile. This will cause cracking and the tile will come loose. Use a good quality grout sealer to ensure a tight seal.
Tiling a shower is not an easy task. It required a lot of skill just to strip the shower and prepare the backing wall. If you get stuck anywhere, there is always a reliable contractor that will finish the job at reasonable rates.
 
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