Dampen the cement board with a sponge then use a trowel to spread some of the mortar to the back of the tile.
How to start tile on a shower wall.
For our shower we chose a running bond pattern.
You ll need a design plan before you start attaching the tile.
As most surfaces are rarely entirely level you may have to cut some of your tiles to make sure your first course of tiles is level.
Backbuttering tiles ensures a good bond with the wall thin set.
The back of the tile should be 90 100 covered in thin set.
Clean the thin set off the tile.
Today we share 9 quick tips that ll make your project easier and get you great results.
Use a level to measure where you will lay your first course of tiles.
For exposed edges set edge trim or bullnose tile pieces in place.
Scoop out a golf ball sized amount of adhesive onto a notched trowel and spread enough adhesive in a thin layer over the wall to hang 2 3 tiles at a time.
Measure each wall area calculating the width times height.
Before you start setting tile take some measurements and see how the tiles will all lay out image 1.
Start a new row above the first row and continue setting tile as instructed.
Embed tile into the thin set on wall.
Lastly remove the 1 2 ledgers and add the bottom row of tiles.
How to tile a shower wall 1.
This is perhaps the most important step that some folks forget.
Save time by setting several tiles at once.
In our project we set the tile for the wall opposite the shower door first.
You should start from the bottom and move upward.
Have the necessary tools for this how to tile a shower diy project lined up before you start you ll save time and frustration.
Back butter each tile and run the thin set grooves the same directions as the wall.
In the end i promise you ll feel more confident tiling a shower and guess what if you have any questions we ll answer them.
Required tools for this shower tile project.
Determine how much tile you ll need.
Start applying the adhesive in a bottom corner about 1 tile length away from the bottom and side of the wall leaving space for the edge tiles.
Periodically check the tile line with a level to be sure they are straight.
Also keep that shower tile looking fresh in the future by regrouting wall tile.
Cut as needed with tile snips or a wet saw to allow tile pieces a better fit around shower faucets and shower heads.
Mark your tile layout.
Add up the wall areas and add 10 so you have extra tile for mistakes or future repairs.