Ethan Clarke
Tiling a plastic shower is a challenging DIY project that requires careful planning and execution to ensure a successful outcome. While it may be tempting to attempt this task as a cost-saving measure, it is important to recognize the potential difficulties and risks involved. One of the biggest challenges is creating a properly sloped and waterproof shower pan, which is essential to prevent water leakage and damage. In addition, it is crucial to install a waterproof membrane before tiling the walls, as tiles and grout alone are not sufficient barriers against water penetration. With proper research, preparation, and attention to detail, it is possible to achieve a well-tiled shower that enhances the functionality and aesthetics of your bathroom.
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What You'll Learn
Ensure the shower tray is level
Tiling a plastic shower is a straightforward process, but it's important to take your time and ensure that everything is level and aligned correctly to avoid leaks and damage. One of the most critical steps in this process is ensuring that the shower tray is level. Here is a detailed guide to help you ensure that your shower tray is level:
Firstly, you need to check if your shower tray is already level with the shower wall. Use a spirit level to do this. Place the spirit level on the shower tray and see if it is level to the wall. If it is not, you will need to adjust the shower tray until it is level. This is crucial because you need to make sure that the base of your shower is straight before you start tiling.
If your shower tray is not level, you may need to adjust the legs or feet of the tray. Most shower trays have adjustable legs or feet that can be screwed up or down to level the tray. Carefully adjust these until the shower tray is level. It is important to be precise at this step, so take your time and keep checking the level as you make adjustments.
Once the shower tray is level, you need to ensure it stays in place securely. You can do this by packing any gaps under the tray with suitable material, such as cement or tile adhesive. This will ensure the shower tray remains level and stable while you tile it and during future use.
Finally, before you start tiling, double-check that the shower tray is still level after making any adjustments and securing it in place. Place the spirit level on the tray again to confirm that it is straight and ready for tiling. Following these steps will help ensure that your shower tray is level, which is essential for a successful tiling project and the long-term functionality of your shower.
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Install a waterproof membrane
Waterproofing your shower with a membrane system is an important step to prevent damage to your bathroom. It creates a barrier between the shower's structure and the tile surface, protecting against moisture. Here is a detailed guide on how to install a waterproof membrane before tiling your plastic shower:
Prepare the Shower Area
Before installing the membrane, ensure the shower area is properly prepared. This step is crucial as it fortifies the system, making it completely waterproof.
Mix and Apply Mortar
Mix a batch of dry-set mortar to a loose consistency. Using a trowel, apply the mortar to the wall, and then use the notched side of the trowel to create grooves in the mortar.
Install the Membrane Sheets
Pre-cut membrane sheets to fit each wall. Mark the locations for shower fixtures on the membrane, and then press the membrane into the wet mortar, starting from the top. Smooth out the membrane with a flat trowel to remove any air bubbles, paying close attention to corners and seams to ensure a complete waterproof seal.
Cut Openings for Fixtures
Use a utility knife to cut openings in the membrane for shower fixtures. Smooth out the membrane again to ensure all air bubbles are removed.
Seal Corners and Seams
Apply adhesive to the corners where walls meet. Use pre-formed corner pieces, or cut your own membrane strips, and press them into the adhesive. Smooth out any wrinkles or air pockets to ensure a tight seal.
Overlap Membrane Sheets
Ensure your membrane sheets overlap by at least 2 inches to cover any gaps and prevent water infiltration.
Final Inspections
Before tiling, perform a final inspection. Allow the mortar and adhesive to cure completely, and then inspect the installation for any gaps or imperfections. Perform a water test to ensure there are no leaks.
While some sources suggest that a properly tiled shower with thinset and grout can be waterproof without a membrane, it is always better to go the extra mile with waterproofing to prevent costly damage down the road.
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Create a sloped shower pan
Creating a sloped shower pan is a crucial step in building a tile shower. It ensures proper drainage and prevents water stagnation, which can lead to mould and unpleasant odours. Here is a detailed guide on how to create a sloped shower pan:
Planning and Preparation:
Before beginning construction, it is essential to plan and gather the necessary materials. Consult local building codes and guidelines, such as the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) Handbook and ANSI108.1, to ensure your project complies with regulations. Estimate the amount of material required, considering a typical depth of 2 inches for the shower area.
Building the Curb and Subfloor Protection:
The first step is to build a curb for your shower pan. This can be done by stacking three 2x4s on top of each other, screwing each layer into the floor. Alternatively, if you have a concrete floor, you can lay bricks held together with thinset instead of wood.
Next, cover the subfloor with a protective layer to prevent moisture damage. This includes using felt paper or roofing felt as a cleavage membrane, followed by metal lath or reinforcement, which is secured with nails or staples.
Calculating and Creating the Slope:
The slope of your shower pan is critical to ensure proper drainage. Calculate the slope by measuring the distance from the drain to the farthest wall in feet, aiming for a target slope of 1/4" per foot. For example, if the distance is 3 feet, you need a 3/4" drop. Mark this point and extend it around the perimeter of the shower.
Use a bucket or two of deck mud (dry pack sand mix) to create the slope. Smooth it out with a 2x4 or trowel, ensuring the deck mud is flush or slightly higher than the top of the bottom flange of the drain. Use a level to check that you have a smooth slope in all directions, adding more material where necessary.
Installing the Waterproofing Membrane:
With the slope in place, it's time to install the waterproofing membrane. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for this phase. The membrane should be installed before tiling to establish a drainage path and prevent leaks. Tape off the drain opening to keep it clean, and place a layer of gravel or crushed tile around it to protect the weep holes.
Final Layers and Tiling:
After installing the waterproofing membrane, add a final layer of sand mix, ensuring it is at least 1/2" deep. Calculate the slope of the final mortar bed and set the adjustable drain accordingly. Finally, you can begin tiling, ensuring you follow proper tiling techniques for a waterproof and durable finish.
Creating a sloped shower pan requires careful planning, precise measurements, and attention to detail. It is a challenging task, but with dedication and patience, you can achieve a functional and long-lasting tile shower.
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Sealant application
Sealing your bathroom tiles with a waterproof sealant is crucial to protect your tiles from water damage and prevent problems like mildew and grime. Not all tile types need sealing; it depends on the material they are made from. For instance, natural stone is porous and needs sealing, whereas ceramic and porcelain tiles don't usually require sealing unless they are unglazed.
Waterproof sealants are not expensive and can be a cost-effective way to preserve your tiles. The sealant application process is not complicated and can be done by anyone with a basic understanding of home improvement. Ensure you have a sealant explicitly designed for tiles.
Before applying the sealant, clean the tiles with an appropriate product. One recommendation is to clean first with Barkeepers Friend, followed by Gel-Gloss. Another product recommended by a tile installer is Blue Bottle, which can be purchased at any home improvement store.
When applying the sealant, wear rubber gloves and, if necessary, use a VOC-rated mask as sealants can be harmful. Open a window for ventilation and close the door to prevent fumes from spreading to other areas.
The sealant will need time to cure, so it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions on curing time and any other specific application guidelines.
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Fit the shower enclosure
Fitting a shower enclosure is a complex task that requires careful planning and execution. While it is possible to do it yourself, it is recommended to hire a qualified professional plumber to ensure a high-standard installation. If you choose to take on the task yourself, here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Planning and Preparation:
Before starting the installation, it is crucial to select an appropriate shower enclosure that suits your bathroom's size, features, and desired look. Consider the available space, and ensure that there are no obstructions, such as radiators or vanities, that might hinder the shower door's opening. Common types of enclosures include sliding enclosures, walk-in enclosures, quadrant enclosures, pivot door enclosures, and bi-fold door enclosures. Choose the one that best fits your needs and space.
Dry Fitting the Enclosure:
Start by dry-fitting your shower enclosure to ensure it is the proper size for your space. Place the shower base into the alcove, using a level to ensure it is even on all sides. Add shims if necessary to level it out, and protect the finish with a piece of cardboard. Mark the top edge of the base on all three sides along the studs. Dry fit the back shower wall, locking the bottom tabs into the base and using tape to hold it in place until you insert the side wall. Ensure it locks firmly.
Plumbing Considerations:
Before dry-fitting the remaining wall, you must cut holes for the plumbing. Measure the distance from the edge of the back panel to the centre of the valve and then to the top of the base. Transfer these marks to the plumbing wall and drill a pilot hole as a guide. Use a flat surface to stabilize the wall while cutting, and use a hole saw to drill through the fiberglass or acrylic surface. Drill from the inside out, ensuring the cover plate is large enough to cover the hole. Dry fit the plumbing wall to confirm proper alignment.
Installing the Enclosure:
Now, it's time to install the side panel. Ensure it is seated correctly on the shower base and attach it to the stud on the vertical side flange, 8 inches on centre. Go across the top at each of the studs. Fasten the enclosure at each stud with 1 1/2-inch self-tapping washer head screws or galvanised roofing nails. Insert the side panel by placing it against the back panel and sliding it down, ensuring the locking tabs fit into the slots in the base and back panel. Screw it into the studs as indicated. With the walls in position, set the plumbing wall in place, checking that the locking tabs fit into their slots and that the drilled holes align for the plumbing fixtures. Pre-drill the flange along the top and down the side at the specified measurements.
Final Checks and Adjustments:
Once the enclosure is installed, confirm that it is level and make any necessary adjustments. Check the shower walls with a level, and mark the studs at the top of the flange all the way around. Remove the panels and set them aside. Mark the locations for any shims, and then remove the base of the shower. To enhance levelling and provide additional reinforcement, place mounds of gypsum plaster or bricklayer's mortar on any low spots in the subfloor.
Remember to always refer to the manufacturer's instructions that come with your shower enclosure kit, as there may be specific guidelines or variations in the installation process.
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Frequently asked questions
No, experts do not recommend tiling over plastic or fiberglass showers. Tiles need a smooth and even surface, and fiberglass is not the right material for proper tile adhesion. There is a risk of tiles loosening over time and breaking off the shower, leading to water damage and mould issues.
Instead of tiling directly onto a plastic shower, you can install wall panels or opt for a fitted shower surround. Wall panels can be installed over existing tiles, but ensure you do not fit panels behind the enclosure to avoid wall issues.
It is essential to ensure that your shower tray is levelled and the base is straight. Creating a properly sloped and waterproof shower pan can be challenging but is crucial to prevent water damage. Always install a waterproof membrane before tiling the walls, as tile and grout alone are not waterproof.
Start tiling from the trim and cut into the corner space, using tile spacers to maintain equal spacing for grout. Apply sanitary sealant around tile joints and the shower wall area to prevent water escape and potential water damage.
Tiling a shower can be a complex process, and it is recommended to seek professional help if you are unsure about the installation process. Waterproofing and ensuring proper tile adhesion are critical to avoid future issues. If you feel confident and choose to DIY, educate yourself thoroughly beforehand.
