What this covers
A tile shower is a waterproof box with tile on its face. The tile and grout are not the barrier; the membrane behind them is. The installer builds or sets a base sloped to the drain, applies a sheet or liquid waterproofing membrane over the walls, curb, niches and bench, and flood-tests the pan before any tile goes on. Tile is laid out so cuts land evenly at corners and fixtures, set in thinset with full coverage, and grouted. Careful work shows in a flat, consistent slope, clean niche edges and movement joints at the corners.
When to call
- Grout that stays dark, tile that sounds hollow, or a stain on the ceiling below the shower.
- A shower torn out after a leak that needs to be rebuilt.
- A tub you want to replace with a walk-in tiled shower.
- A bath remodel that calls for a custom size, a bench or a curbless entry.
What to expect
- DesignSize, tile, drain type, niches, bench and valve location are settled.
- Base and boardThe base is sloped to the drain and the walls are covered with backer board.
- WaterproofA membrane is applied to walls, base and curb, then the pan is flood-tested.
- Tile and groutTile is laid out, set, grouted and sealed where the material calls for it.
Get a certified company
Look up a certified company by ZIP code. Every company's license, insurance and trades are verified before it is listed, and placement is never paid.
Questions people ask
Is grout waterproof?
No. Grout and tile shed most water, but some passes through. The waterproofing membrane behind the tile is what keeps the wall and floor dry.
What is a flood test?
The drain is plugged and the finished pan is filled with water for a day or so to confirm the membrane holds before tile goes on.
Can a shower be curbless?
Often, yes. The floor is recessed or built up so the shower floor slopes to the drain without a step. It takes more planning in the framing and is easier in new construction or a full remodel.
Related: Glass shower doors · Walk-in shower installation · Porcelain tile flooring · All specialty interiors
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