Tiling a bathtub surround is a great way to enhance the look of your bathroom while also protecting the walls from water damage. Whether you’re renovating an old tub area or redoing the flooring, the process for tiling a bathtub surround and tile flooring installation involves several steps, including choosing the right tile, preparing the surface, and applying the tile properly.
1. Choose the Right Tile for Tub Surround
When selecting tile for your bathtub surround, it’s important to consider the aesthetic design you are looking to achieve while considering practical functionality.
Ceramic Tiles:
Ceramic tiles are one of the most popular choices for bathtub surrounds due to their water resistance, ease of installation, and affordability. Ceramic tile can also be used as wet area flooring. Although challenging, ceramic tile flooring and tub surround installation are doable for most homeowners and DIYers with the right materials, preparation, and patience.Porcelain Tiles:
Porcelain tiles are a type of ceramic tile made from denser clay and fired at higher temperatures, making them more durable and water-resistant. Porcelain tiles are typically slightly more expensive than ceramic tiles.Natural Stone Tiles:
Natural stone tiles, such as marble and granite, offer a luxurious and elegant look. While they bring unique textures to your bathroom, natural stone tiles require sealing to prevent moisture absorption and staining, making them higher maintenance and costlier.Glass Tiles:
Glass tiles offer a sleek, modern look with a reflective, shiny surface. Commonly used as accent tiles for bathtub surrounds, they add a vibrant, glossy finish to your bathroom. However, they can be more fragile than ceramic or porcelain tiles.
2. Plan Your Tile Layout
Before you start tiling your tub surround, plan your layout carefully. Measure the surface area of your bathtub surround to calculate how many tiles you will need, including extras for cuts and mistakes. Choose patterns like straight, herringbone, or diagonal to complement the overall design of your bathroom.
3. Gather Materials and Tools
You’ll need a variety of tools and materials, including:
- Ceramic or porcelain tiles
- Tile adhesive or mortar
- Tile spacers
- Grout
- Tile cutter or wet saw
- Notched trowel
- Level
- Rubber float
- Sponge and bucket
4. Prepare the Wall Surface
Ensure the wall is clean and dry. Remove any old tile or wallpaper completely. For added durability, install a cement board as a solid, moisture-resistant surface for tiling.
5. Apply the Tile Adhesive
Using a notched trowel, apply a thin, even layer of tile adhesive (or mortar) to the wall, working in small sections at a time. Press the tiles firmly into the adhesive, ensuring they are level and evenly spaced. Use tile spacers between each tile to maintain consistent gaps for grout.
6. Cut Tiles as Needed
As you approach the edges of the bathtub surround, you’ll likely need to cut some tiles to fit. Use a tile cutter or a wet saw to make precise cuts. Measure twice and cut once to avoid mistakes.
Check Our Recent Projects
7. Allow Adhesive to Set
Once all the tiles are in place, allow the adhesive to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically takes 24 hours.
8. Grout the Tiles
After the adhesive has set, remove the tile spacers and apply grout between the tiles. Use a rubber float to press the grout into the gaps, ensuring the grout lines are filled. Wipe off excess grout with a damp sponge, working in small sections to avoid it drying on the tile surface.
9. Seal the Grout
To protect the grout and prevent water damage, seal the grout once it has dried completely. This step helps maintain the look and longevity of your tile installation.
Tile Installation Cost Considerations
The cost of renovating a bathtub surround can vary based on the type of tile you choose, the size of the surround, and whether you do the work yourself or hire a professional installer. On average:
- DIY tile installation costs range from $500 to $1,500, depending on materials and design complexity.
- Professional installation includes labor fees, raising the cost but ensuring a high-quality result.
Conclusion
Remodeling a bathtub surround is a rewarding project that will improve both the aesthetic appeal and durability of your bathroom. By choosing the right tile, preparing the surface properly, and following the correct installation steps, you can achieve a beautiful and functional tub surround. Whether you opt for a DIY approach or hire a professional team, the results will elevate your bathroom’s style and functionality for years to come.
