When I decided to remodel my bathroom, I knew I wanted to upgrade the shower. I had always wanted a tiled shower floor, but I was nervous about how to tile around the drain. After doing some research and getting advice from professionals, I successfully tiled my shower floor around the drain. In this article, I will share my experience and provide a step by step guide on how to tile a shower floor around the drain.
Step by Step Guide
Materials Needed:
- Tiles
- Tile cutter
- Tile adhesive
- Grout
- Trowel
- Level
- Spacers
- Sponge
- Grout float
1. Start by cleaning the shower floor and removing any old tiles or debris.
2. Measure the area around the drain and cut tiles to fit using a tile cutter.
3. Apply tile adhesive to the shower floor using a trowel. Make sure to only apply enough adhesive for a few tiles at a time, as it will dry quickly.
4. Place the tiles around the drain, using spacers to ensure even spacing between tiles.
5. Use a level to make sure the tiles are even and adjust as needed.
6. Continue tiling the rest of the shower floor, working in small sections.
7. Once all the tiles are in place, allow the adhesive to dry for at least 24 hours.
8. Remove the spacers and fill in the gaps between the tiles with grout using a grout float.
9. Use a sponge to clean off any excess grout.
10. Allow the grout to dry for at least 24 hours before using the shower.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas
- Choose tiles that are slip-resistant to prevent accidents in the shower.
- Consider using mosaic tiles around the drain for a unique and eye-catching look.
- Use a waterproof membrane under the tiles to prevent water damage.
- Make sure to measure the area carefully to ensure you have enough tiles for the job.
- Use a tile cutter to cut tiles to fit around the drain.
- Apply adhesive to a small area at a time to prevent it from drying out too quickly.
- Use a level to ensure the tiles are even and adjust as needed.
- Remove spacers before the grout dries to prevent them from getting stuck.
- Seal the grout to prevent moisture from seeping in and causing damage.
- Consider hiring a professional if you are unsure about how to tile a shower floor around the drain.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- A tiled shower floor looks beautiful and adds value to your home.
- Tiling around the drain can be done relatively easily with the right tools and materials.
- There are many different tile options available, allowing you to create a custom look.
Cons:
- Tiling a shower floor around the drain can be time-consuming and labor-intensive.
- If not done correctly, water damage can occur, leading to costly repairs.
- Professional installation can be expensive.
Personal Review
I am extremely happy with the way my tiled shower floor turned out. The process was a bit time-consuming, but it was well worth it in the end. I love the way the mosaic tile looks around the drain, and the slip-resistant surface gives me peace of mind when using the shower. Overall, I highly recommend tiling a shower floor around the drain for anyone looking to upgrade their bathroom.
Question & Answer
Q: Can I tile over an existing shower floor?
A: It is possible to tile over an existing shower floor, but it is important to make sure the surface is clean and level before starting. It may also be necessary to use a waterproof membrane to prevent moisture damage.
FAQs
Q: Do I need to seal the grout?
A: Yes, sealing the grout is important to prevent moisture from seeping in and causing damage. It is recommended to seal the grout once a year to maintain its effectiveness.
Q: How long does it take for the adhesive and grout to dry?
A: The adhesive and grout typically take 24 to 48 hours to dry completely. It is important to wait until they are fully dry before using the shower.