Yes, it is possible to tile around a shower base. Depending on the type of shower base, you will need to prepare and install your tile accordingly. For example, if you are working with a pre-formed shower base, you will need to use a specially formulated waterproof mortar or thinset that has been designed for wall and floor tiles.
This is to ensure the best adhesion and watertight seal for the tiles. Additionally, you may need to add a waterproof membrane or similar material to the walls, to protect from mould and water damage.
You should also consider purchasing an adhesive with wet-bond technology, which will allow the tiles to adhere even when they get wet. Once you have applied your mortar or thinset and set the tiles, it is important to grout and seal the edges to ensure a watertight seal and reduce the risk of water seeping beneath the tiles.
When applying grout, use a specially formulated waterproof grout to add an extra layer of protection.
Do you leave a gap between tile and shower pan?
Yes, it is important to leave a gap between the tile and the shower pan. This gap serves two primary functions. First, it prevents water from seeping behind the wall and causing damage to the water-resistant shower pan lining.
Secondly, it allows for any expansion of the tile as temperatures fluctuate, thereby preventing cracks in the tile or surrounding walls. The size of the gap depends on both the size of the tile and the type of shower pan that is being used.
Generally, a 1/4-inch gap is sufficient for most installations. Properly sealing the gap with a waterproof caulk is essential in ensuring that no water is able to pass through the gap and into the areas behind the shower pan.
How far should tile extend past shower pan?
When tiling around a shower pan, the general rule-of-thumb is to extend the tile at least 1/2 inch past the pan on each side. For example, if your shower pan is 36” wide, you should lay six tiles of 6” each or two tiles of 12” each plus one tile of 6”.
Each row should overhang the pan by at least 1/2” on either side. This ensures that all of the tile edges will be properly lined up, and the space between the tiles and the pan is filled correctly. However, if you are installing tile with a pattern, then you may need to extend the tiles further to facilitate the pattern.
For example, if you plan to install a four-tile diamond pattern, then you may need to extend each tile by 3/4” or more. Finally, when tiling an irregular Y- or L-shaped shower pan, you may need to extend the tiles by an additional 1/4” beyond 1/2” to ensure that the tile trim and joints meet at a 90-degree angle.
How much space do you need between shower base and tile?
In general, it is suggested to leave a minimum of 1/8th of an inch between the shower base and tile when installing. This will help create the right spacing to prevent cracking and keep the tile in place to make for a durable installation.
Try to use a straightedge along the surface of the shower base and the top of the tile to ensure that everything is even before moving forward. If possible, attempt to leave more space around the tile so that the grout has somewhere to go.
This will ensure a smoother installation and reduce any issues with weight when the shower base is finally in place. Overall, 1/8th of an inch is a good starting point, but depending on the type of tile you are using, you may need to utilize a bit more space.
Does tile need an expansion gap?
Yes, most types of tile need an expansion gap between the tile and the walls of the space you are tiling. Expansion gaps are necessary because of the natural expansion and contraction of all building materials due to changes in temperature and moisture levels.
An expansion gap allows the tiles to properly expand and contract without cracking or buckling. Aside from being a requirement to prevent damage, expansion gaps are also important to provide a finished, professional-looking tile installation.
The size of the expansion gap between the tiles and the walls or other permanent fixtures should be stated in the manufacturer’s instructions and will vary depending on the type of tile being used. In general, the gap should be 1/8″ – 1/4″ wide.
Should there be a gap between floor tile and wall?
Yes, there should always be a gap between floor tile and wall. This gap, also known as a “control joint,” should be filled with caulk and left open at the wall/tile boundary to help prevent water and other debris from seeping in and damaging the walls, floors, or any other structural components in the area.
A control joint also prevents tiles from cracking due to expansion and contraction caused by temperature changes or moisture in the air. The gap should be at least 1/8th of an inch and up to 1/4 of an inch depending on the width of the tile and the flexibility of the grout used.
Before caulk is applied, the area should be cleaned of any dirt or debris to ensure a proper seal.
How big should grout lines be in a shower?
Generally, the grout lines in a shower should be between one-eighth and one-quarter of an inch wide. Choosing this size grout line allows for a neat, attractive finish and also prevents water penetration.
If grout lines are too small, water may penetrate and cause water damage or mold growth. On the other hand, if the grout lines are too wide, the finish may look unappealing, dirt and debris may accumulate, and the tile may be unstable.
When choosing the grout size, the type and size of the tiles used should be taken into consideration. Generally, smaller tiles require smaller grout lines while larger tiles may look better with Medium-width grout lines.
In addition, if a patterned tile is used, the grout lines should be small enough that they do not distract from the pattern or detract from the overall look of the shower.
Finally, it is essential to use high-quality grout that is capable of resisting water, mold, and mildew. Even with the perfect grout size, inferior grout can still lead to water damage, mold, and damage to the tile.
Does Thinset stick to shower pan liner?
Yes, thinset does stick to a shower pan liner. Thinset is a portland-cement based mortar used to bond tile to walls or other surfaces. It is designed to create an even and firm bond between two surfaces, and the shower pan liner is no exception.
When attaching a tile to a shower pan liner, it is important to make sure it is dry, clean, and free of any soap residue. Additionally, it is important to use a thinset mortar that is compatible with both the tile and a shower liner.
For example, a polymer-modified thinset mortar is recommended when using a shower pan liner, as it is more resistant to water vapor and water absorption. Once the thinset is applied, you must be sure to press the tile firmly into the thinset and shower pan liner, to ensure a good bond and to avoid any future cracking or dislodging of the tile from the surface.
Once the surface has dried, you may then seal the grout and tiles with a silicone sealant or grout sealer, to further ensure that the bonded surface is waterproof and long-lasting.
What kind of mortar do you use under a shower pan?
When installing a shower pan, you should use a mortar that has been approved for use in shower pans. This type of mortar is made from sand, Portland cement, and hydrated lime and is designed to be waterproof.
It is important to make sure that the mortar is troweled on flat and is of at least a one inch thick layer in order to provide the best seal between the pan and the shower floor. It is also important to make sure that the pan is installed properly and that any seams are sealed to prevent moisture intrusion.
Once the mortar dries, it is important to grout the seams with a waterproof grout in order to achieve a watertight seal. Finally, make sure to check with your local building code as some areas may require that you use a different type of mortar in a shower pan installation.
How do you prepare a shower floor for tile?
Preparing a shower floor for tile requires some attention to detail, as it’s necessary to create a solid, waterproof surface before tile installation. First, inspect the existing shower floor, and seal any cracks or deficiencies in the surface.
If the surface is not level, use a self-leveling compound to even it out. Once the floor is properly sealed and leveled, a waterproof membrane should be installed. This can be a cement-based or a rubberized membrane.
If a cement-based membrane is used, apply a latex-modified thinset mortar to the membrane before laying down tile. This will ensure a strong bond between the membrane and the tile. Finally, apply a grout sealer to the grout lines to protect them from moisture damage and mold growth.
