At some point, every home is going to need a little maintenance – and that includes the bathroom. One of the most common issues in older bathrooms is the tile. Shower tiles can become loose, grout can start to crack and chip, and eventually, you’ll be faced with the task of retiling. While this may seem like a daunting task, with a little planning and elbow grease, anyone can retile their own shower. In this blog post, we’re going to show you how to retile a walk in shower step by step. With just a few tools and supplies, you’ll have your bathroom looking brand new in no time!
Remove the Old Tiles
Assuming you want to retile your walk in shower, the first thing you need to do is remove the old tiles. This can be a daunting task, but with a few tips and the right tools, it can be relatively easy.
First, start by removing any loose tiles. If any of the tiles are broken or damaged, they will need to be replaced as well. Use a chisel and hammer to carefully remove these tiles. Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection when working with these tools.
Next, use a tile saw or grinder to remove any remaining mortar or adhesive from the surface of the shower. Once this is done, you will need to clean the area thoroughly before beginning to install the new tiles.
Now you are ready to begin installing your new tiles! Follow the instructions included with your chosen tile adhesive and grout mix. Be sure to take your time and work carefully to avoid any mistakes.
Once the new tiles are in place, allow them to cure for 24 hours before using the shower. After this time has passed, enjoy your newly tiled walk in shower!
Prepare the Shower for the New Tiles
Assuming you have already removed the old tile, you will need to take some time to prepare the shower for the new tiles. This includes making sure the surface is level and smooth. If there are any cracks or holes in the surface, they should be repaired before proceeding.
Once the surface is prepared, it’s time to lay down a layer of mortar. This will help ensure that the new tiles adhere properly and remain in place. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
After the mortar has been applied, it’s time to start laying down the new tiles. Begin at one end of the shower and work your way across. It’s important to make sure that each tile is level and flush with the others. If not, you may end up with an uneven surface.
Once all of the new tiles are in place, allow them to dry for 24 hours before using the shower again. This will give them plenty of time to set and bond properly.
Choose Your New Tiles
When you are ready to retile your walk in shower, there are many tile options available on the market. Here are a few things to consider when choosing your new tiles:
-The style of your shower. Are you going for a more traditional look, or something more modern?
-The size of your tiles. Smaller tiles can give your shower a more intimate feel, while larger tiles can make it feel more spacious.
-The colour of your tiles. Do you want to keep it light and airy, or go for a bolder look?
-The texture of your tiles. Smooth tiles can be easier to clean, but textured tiles can add more interest to the space.
-The material of your tiles. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are classic choices, but there are also natural stone options available.
Once you have decided on the style, size, colour, texture and material of your new tiles, it’s time to start installation!
Install the New Tiles
Assuming you have already prepped the shower by removing the old tile, mortar and any other debris, you are ready to start installing the new tile.
1. Begin at the bottom of the shower and work your way up. This will help prevent any tiles from falling off as you work.
2. If you are using a self-leveling compound, apply it to the surface before beginning to lay your tile. This will help ensure an even surface for your new tile.
3. Start laying the tile from the center of the shower and work your way outwards in a spiral pattern. Once you get to the edges, you can use a wet saw to cut tiles to fit as needed. Be sure to apply mortar evenly as you go to avoid any weak spots in your new tile installation.
4. After all the tile is installed, allow it to dry for 24 hours before grouting or caulking around the edges of the shower pan.
Conclusion
With these tips in mind, you should be well on your way to retiling your walk-in shower like a pro. Just remember to take your time, measure everything twice (or even three times), and use the appropriate tools and materials for the job. And if you run into any problems along the way, don’t hesitate to ask for help from a friend or professional.
