If your shower is still in good shape but the area around is in need of a refresh, one of the things you can do is tile or re-tile it. Ceramic tiles are commonly used for shower walls and floors because they’re durable and help prevent water damage. With just a few supplies and some handiwork, you can tile your shower transform your bathroom into one that looks beautiful.

Removing the old tiles

If you’re re-tiling your shower, you’ll have to remove the existing tile first.

1. While wearing your safety goggles, use a utility knife to score the grout in between each tile and help loosen it.
2. Place the chisel underneath the edge of the tile and gently tap it with a hammer. Repeat this process around all four edges.
3. Once the tile edges are loosened, slide your putty knife behind the tile and use it to pry the tile off the wall.
4. Continue to remove your shower tiles and once you’re finished, use the chisel to remove any extra grout or adhesive from the walls.
5. Sand down the wall with medium-grit sandpaper to prepare it for new tiles.

Installing the new tiles

1. Mix up your tile adhesive according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Using your trowel, spread the adhesive over your wall and make sure it’s notched for better grip. (Be sure not to spread too much adhesive at once, otherwise it will dry before you get a chance to install your tiles.)
3. Measure where you want your first tile and press the tile into place, giving it a small wiggle to make sure it’s stuck thoroughly.
4. Continue to spread the adhesive and press the tiles into it, leaving the same amount of room in between each tile.
5. When you get to the edges of your shower, use a wet saw to cleanly cut your tiles so that they fit into the space.
6. Allow the adhesive to cure. Once it’s dry, mix up your grout and apply it to the entire tiled area.
7. Once the grout is cured, apply a grout sealer to finish off the job.