Renovated Shower in Naples

Demoing an old shower and replacing it with textured tile is a great way to upgrade the look of any bathroom, however it requires technical know-how and finesse to ensure a professional job.

As a tile expert, I always emphasize the importance of doing the ground work before attempting any tile installation project. With a few helpful tips and a dose of patience, bathroom tile renovation can be easily completed even by DIY home-owners.

The first step when demoing an existing shower is to make sure all plumbing fixtures are covered with proper protection. You'll then need to remove all the existing fixtures, mortar, and any existing tile. Once all the debris and materials have been disposed of, it is then time to begin the installation of the new tile.

In many of cases, the demo phase is important to do BEFORE material purchases, as you'll need to assess the structural integrity, and any previous damage (like we encountered here).

It is important to make sure that all the surfaces are level (within plus or minus three millimeters). This can be verified with a four-foot level. Once the walls are level, a liquid membrane should be selected, such as a liquid waterproofing membrane, and painted onto the walls to ensure a waterproof job.

The next step is to lay out the tiles. It is important to make sure that the spacing between the tiles meets the guidelines of your tile manufacturer. Not only will the gaps between the tiles and grout joints better the finished look, but also prevent any future water infiltration into the walls. When properly installing tile, it is important to carefully line up the tiles at the points in the shower where water and moisture are present. This includes the shower floor, any shower pan liner seams, and the curb where the shower door is located. For these areas, it is important to ensure that the grout between the tiles runs in the same direction as the water. This will prevent water infiltration into crevices and around the tile edges.

As a general guideline, when tile installation is complete, all seams should be sealed with caulk. Also, waterproof protection should be installed behind the tile and in all corners and crevices of the shower. Lastly, use a sealer product on the grout to extend its life and make it easier to clean.

Installing shower tile is an investment that will last a lifetime with proper attention to important details. Taking shortcuts can have long-lasting consequences and potentially void tile manufacturer warranties. For best results, always consult a reputable tile installer and be sure to follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Better yet, book Goliath for your bathroom reno!