If you’re in the process of renovating your apartment and the only thing left to do is tile the showers, you may be wondering how long this task will take. Some tile installers may promise to finish the job within hours, while others may claim it will take days. In reality, tiling a shower requires a significant amount of time and effort to ensure it is done properly and will last for years to come.
In this article, we will explore how long it takes to tile a shower and why it is important to invest adequate time in this process. Additionally, we will answer some common questions about tiling showers, including how to keep your shower tile clean.
How Long Does It Take To Tile A Shower? Step-By-Step Timeframe:
To tile a shower, the time required will depend on the size of the shower and the tools used. Here is an estimated timeframe for a standard shower area:
| Procedure | Time Needed | |
|---|---|---|
| Step 1 | Install the backer board | 1-2 hours |
| Step 2 | Install the tiles and wait | 1 day |
| Step 3 | Grout the tiles and wait | 2 days |
| Step 4 | Seal the grouts | 1 hour |
It is important to note that these timeframes are approximate and may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the installation. Additionally, it is recommended to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific products being used. By following this step-by-step process, you can successfully install tile in your shower and create a beautiful and functional shower enclosure or shower stall.
7 Factors To Determine The Time Needed To Tile A Shower:
1. Tile Sizes
The size of the tiles you are installing in the shower plays a significant role in determining the time required for installation. Larger tiles cover more area, and therefore, require less time to install. Conversely, smaller tiles take longer to install since they cover less area, and more tiles are needed to fill the shower space.
2. The Shape And Size Of The Shower Area
The shape and size of the shower area also affect the time required for tile installation. A basic shower area with no unique curves or architectural twists takes less time to install tiles. However, if the shower area has unique curves or architectural twists, it takes more time to install tiles since the tiles need to be cut to fit the unusual shower area.
3. The Direction Of Installation Of The Tiles
The direction of tile installation also affects the time required for installation. Installing tiles vertically or horizontally is comparatively easy and takes less time. However, installing tiles diagonally is a new trend that takes more time. To install tiles diagonally, extra calculations are needed, and more tiles need to be cut, increasing the overall time required for tile installation.
4. Professional Or DIY Installation
The choice between professional or DIY installation affects the time required for tile installation. DIY installations take longer than professional installations since the person doing the installation is not as experienced as a professional. If you choose to do the installation yourself, make sure to allocate extra time for the job.
5. Preparing The Wall
Preparing the wall before tile installation is crucial and affects the time required for installation. If the wall is not even or clean enough, it takes more time to prepare it. It is essential to instruct the workers to make the walls even while the plaster of the shower area is being done. Ensure that the wall is clean enough to start tiling immediately; otherwise, the total time required for tile installation will increase.
6. Type Of The Grout
The type of grout used in tile installation also affects the time required for installation. Sanded grouts are more durable than unsanded grouts, but they take longer to dry. If you are using sanded grout, you will need to wait for two days for the grout to dry before applying the grout sealer. Unsanded grouts, on the other hand, dry faster but require an extra day for drying before applying the grout sealer.
7. Type Of The Grout Sealer
The type of grout sealer used also affects the time required for tile installation. Before buying the sealing agent, carefully read the manual to know the exact time it needs to dry. Some grout sealers take around two days to dry, while others take only two to three hours. Using the wrong grout sealer can significantly increase the time required for tile installation.
3 Tips On Installing Tiles In A Shower:
1. Check The Width Of Tile Joints
Before installing tiles in a shower, you should check the width of the joints of the tiles. The type of grout you need to use depends on the width of the joints. If the width is less than ⅛ inches, you should use unsanded grout. If the joint width of the tiles is more than ⅛ inches, you should use sanded grouts. Using the wrong type of grout can lead to installation failure.
2. Check The Compatibility Of The Tiles
Not all tiles are suitable for use in a shower. To ensure that the tiles are usable in showers, you must check if they are rated for wet application. Using tiles that are not rated for wet application can lead to damage and costly repairs.
3. Do Not Make The Grout Watery
When mixing grout, avoid adding too much water. Too watery grouts will take much longer to dry up, and your estimation of installation time will fail. If there is excess moisture in the grout, it will eventually come out in the process of evaporation, leaving little holes in the grout. This will make the grout useless and require costly repairs.
To ensure a successful tile installation, you should also consider installing shelves, shower accessories, and benches to make your shower more functional. Additionally, proper cleaning and maintenance of the tiles will keep them looking new for years to come.
Commonly Asked Questions About Tiling A Shower:
Sanded Or Unsanded, Which Grout Takes Longer To Dry?
When it comes to drying time, sanded and unsanded grouts have different chemical compositions that affect their drying time. Sanded grouts typically need 2 days to dry enough before sealing can be applied, while unsanded grouts need around 3 days to dry up. For a vertical tile installation, it is recommended to use unsanded grouts.
How Long Should You Wait After Grouting A Shower?
After grouting a shower, it is essential to wait at least 48 to 72 hours before using it. Then, you need to apply the grout sealer and wait another 2 hours before taking a shower. This timeframe is crucial for ensuring the durability of the tiles.
Can You Tile And Grout On The Same Day?
Generally speaking, it is not possible to tile and grout the shower area on the same day. After grouting the shower tiles properly, you have to wait from 48 to 72 hours. However, there is a new technology available in the market that allows some new types of shower tiles to get set within hours. If you are using this newly introduced technology, you can tile and grout the shower on the same day.
What Happens If You Grout The Tiles Too Soon?
Grouting the shower tiles before they are supposed to be grouted can cause the sealing of the grout to shrink soon after installation, leading to hairline cracks in the grout. Therefore, you should wait at least a day before grouting the shower tiles after installing them.
Can You Wait A Week To Grout The Shower Tiles?
It is recommended to grout the shower tiles after 24 hours of installation on the backer board. Waiting for a week may cause problems as grouts work as a support for the tiles to stay in their positions. Tiles fitted vertically on the walls need more support than the floor tiles. So, if you wait for a week to grout the tiles, they may get displaced, and the whole installation of shower tiles may get hampered.
Conclusion:
Proper installation of your shower is crucial to ensure its longevity and functionality. As James Martin, a professional plumber with over 16 years of experience, advises, taking the time to properly tile your shower will pay off in the long run.
Neglecting this step can lead to costly repairs and damage to your reputation. By investing in quality installation, you can enjoy a beautiful and functional shower for years to come.
Remember to prioritize the pros and budget when making decisions about your bathroom plumbing and installation.
