Shower Tile Installation

At Mustache Approved Remodeling, we provide professional shower tile installation throughout the East Valley, serving homeowners in Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Tempe, Scottsdale, and Ahwatukee.

Beautiful tile work catches the eye, but what happens behind the tile determines whether your shower lasts 5 years or 25 years. Shower tile installation requires far more than laying tile in a pattern—it demands proper waterproofing, correct substrate preparation, appropriate slope for drainage, and professional-grade materials and techniques. See your finished space before we build with our Virtual Showroom 3D design consultation.

As a licensed general contractor (ROC #309760), we approach every shower tile project with the same attention to what you can’t see as what you can. Our S.W.A.N. Plan waterproofing system ensures your tile installation is built on a foundation designed to last decades, not just look good on day one.

For complete bathroom renovation information, visit our bathroom remodeling services page or browse our Bathroom FAQs. We offer master bathroom remodeling and small bathroom remodeling for guest baths, hall baths, and powder rooms. Many homeowners coordinate shower tile projects with tile flooring installation for cohesive design throughout bathrooms. Learn more about our complete bathroom remodeler services & tile contractor services throughout the East Valley.

For comprehensive information about all shower services, visit our complete shower installation guide covering walk-in showers, curbless showers, tub-to-shower conversions, and professional tile installation throughout the East Valley.

Watch: Professional Shower Tile Installation

See the level of detail and craftsmanship we bring to every shower tile project:

Watch: Our Tile Leveling System in Action

Why Professional Shower Tile Installation Matters

Showers endure more water exposure than any other surface in your home. Every day, gallons of water hit your shower walls and floor, creating constant moisture pressure against tile, grout, and the structure behind them.

When shower tile is installed incorrectly—or when corners are cut on waterproofing—the consequences are serious:

• Water penetrates through grout and behind tile
• Moisture reaches wall framing and subfloor
• Mold and mildew develop in hidden spaces
• Wood rot compromises structural integrity
• Tile loosens, cracks, or falls off walls
• Complete tear-out and rebuild becomes necessary

We’ve seen countless showers—some only 3-5 years old—that required complete demolition because the original installation skipped critical waterproofing steps. The tile looked fine on the surface while serious damage developed behind it.

Professional shower tile installation prevents these failures by addressing what matters most: the waterproofing system underneath.

The Foundation: Waterproofing Before Tile

Tile is not waterproof. Grout is not waterproof. The only thing protecting your walls and floor from water damage is the waterproofing membrane applied before tile installation.

This is why we developed our S.W.A.N. Plan (Sleep Well At Night) waterproofing system—because proper waterproofing is the difference between a shower that lasts and one that fails.

S.W.A.N. Plan Waterproofing Components

Laticrete Hydro Ban Membrane

We apply Laticrete Hydro Ban—a liquid-applied waterproofing membrane—to the shower pan. This isn’t a thin coat brushed on corners. It’s comprehensive coverage across: Professional tile installation requires proper shower waterproofing underneath—tile and grout are not waterproof on their own.

• All shower walls from floor to ceiling (or minimum 6 feet)
• Complete shower floor with proper slope to drain
• Shower curb (top, sides, and face)
• All corners, seams, and transitions
• Around every penetration (valve, shower head, drain)
• Inside shower niches and on benches

Hydro Ban Board or Cement Board Substrate

Before waterproofing, we install proper substrate material—either Hydro Ban Board or professional-grade cement board. This provides:

• Stable, flat surface for tile installation
• Moisture-resistant backing
• Structural support for tile weight
• Proper surface for membrane adhesion

Standard drywall or green board (moisture-resistant drywall) should never be used in showers. We see this shortcut frequently in failed shower installations.

Reinforced Corners and Seams

Every corner, seam, and transition receives additional treatment:

• Laticrete waterproofing fabric tape embedded in membrane
• Multiple membrane coats over high-stress areas
• Extra attention to floor-to-wall transitions
• Reinforcement around all penetrations

Proper Curing Time

Waterproofing must cure completely before tile installation begins. We allow 24-48 hours of curing time—never rushing this critical phase to meet arbitrary schedules.

What Happens Without Proper Waterproofing

Many contractors skip comprehensive waterproofing to save time and money. They might:

• Apply waterproofing only at seams and corners
• Use inferior products that break down over time
• Rush application without proper coverage
• Skip waterproofing entirely and rely on “water-resistant” materials

The result is predictable: within 3-7 years, water finds its way through, damage accumulates, and the entire shower requires demolition and replacement.

A proper waterproofing system costs a few hundred dollars in materials and adds a day to the project timeline. Skipping it can cost $15,000-$25,000+ in repairs down the road.

Shower Floor Tile Installation

Shower floors demand different considerations than walls. The floor must manage water flow, provide safe footing, and withstand constant moisture exposure.

Proper Slope for Drainage

Shower floors must slope toward the drain at a minimum of 1/4 inch per foot. This slope ensures water flows to the drain rather than pooling on the floor surface.

Achieving correct slope requires:

• Properly constructed shower pan or pre-sloped foam base
• Verification of slope at multiple points before tile installation
• Tile layout that maintains consistent slope across entire floor
• Careful attention around drain area for proper water entry

Incorrect slope causes water to pool in corners or against walls, creating standing moisture that promotes mold growth and accelerates grout deterioration.

Tile Selection for Shower Floors

Not every tile is appropriate for shower floors. We recommend:

Smaller Format Tiles (2×2 inch or mosaic)

Smaller tiles conform better to sloped surfaces and provide more grout lines for improved traction. Large format tiles on shower floors often result in lippage (uneven tile edges) that creates tripping hazards and water pooling.

Textured or Matte Finishes

Polished or glossy tiles become dangerously slippery when wet. We recommend textured, matte, or naturally slip-resistant tile surfaces for shower floors.

Porcelain Over Ceramic

Porcelain tiles have lower water absorption rates than ceramic, making them better suited for constant moisture exposure. We typically specify porcelain for all shower applications.

Appropriate Coefficient of Friction

Tile slip resistance is measured by Dynamic Coefficient of Friction (DCOF). For shower floors, we recommend tiles with DCOF ratings of 0.42 or higher for safe wet-surface performance.

Floor Tile Installation Process

Layout Planning

Before setting any tile, we plan the complete layout:

• Center the pattern for visual balance
• Minimize small cuts at edges
• Account for drain location and size
• Plan grout joint alignment with wall tile

Thinset Application

We use premium unmodified thinset over waterproofing membrane, applied with proper trowel size for full tile coverage. Each tile receives back-buttering (thinset applied to tile back) for complete adhesion.

Tile Setting

Tiles are set with consistent spacing using tile leveling systems that ensure:

• Even grout joints throughout
• No lippage between adjacent tiles
• Maintained slope toward drain
• Proper alignment with wall tile where they meet

Drain Integration

The drain area requires careful tile cuts and proper slope. Whether using a traditional center drain or linear drain, we ensure:

• Clean tile cuts around drain edges
• Proper slope from all directions toward drain
• Watertight connection between drain and waterproofing system
• Finished appearance that looks intentional, not improvised

Shower Wall Tile Installation

Wall tile installation presents different challenges than floors—working against gravity, maintaining level and plumb across large surfaces, and creating clean transitions at corners and edges.

Wall Tile Options and Considerations

Large Format Tiles

Large tiles (12×24 inch, 24×48 inch, or larger) create modern, clean aesthetics with minimal grout lines. They require:

• Extremely flat wall surfaces (any imperfection shows)
• Proper support during installation (tiles are heavy)
• Precise cuts at corners and edges
• Tile leveling systems for perfect alignment

Large format tiles are popular in walk-in shower installations and curbless shower designs throughout the East Valley.

Subway Tiles

Classic subway tiles (3×6 inch, 4×8 inch, or 4×12 inch) offer timeless appeal with versatile layout options:

• Traditional offset (brick) pattern
• Straight stack for modern look
• Herringbone for visual interest
• Vertical orientation for height emphasis

Natural Stone

Marble, travertine, and other natural stones create luxurious shower environments but require:

• Proper sealing before and after installation
• More frequent maintenance than porcelain
• Specific cleaning products (no acidic cleaners)
• Understanding that natural variation is part of the material

Accent Tiles and Features

Many homeowners incorporate accent elements:

• Decorative border strips
• Accent walls in contrasting tile
• Niche interiors in different material
• Mosaic feature areas

Wall Tile Installation Process

Surface Preparation

Walls must be flat, plumb, and properly prepared:

• Cement board or Hydro Ban Board installed over framing
• All seams taped and waterproofed
• Surface checked for flatness (large format tiles require very flat surfaces)
• Any imperfections corrected before tile installation

Layout and Planning

Before installing tile, we plan the complete layout:

• Establish level reference lines
• Center tile pattern on focal wall
• Plan cuts to avoid small slivers at edges
• Coordinate pattern across all three walls
• Account for niches, benches, and fixtures

Setting Tile

We install wall tile using:

• Premium thinset appropriate for tile size and type
• Proper trowel size for full coverage
• Tile leveling systems for consistent joints
• Spacers for uniform grout lines
• Support for large tiles during initial set

Working Around Fixtures

Showers require precise cuts around:

• Shower valve and trim
• Shower head outlet
• Handheld shower bracket
• Any body spray outlets
• Grab bar blocking locations

Clean, tight cuts around fixtures indicate professional installation. Sloppy cuts with excessive caulk covering gaps indicate rushed or amateur work.

Shower Niche Tile Installation

Shower niches—recessed shelving built into shower walls—are popular features that require careful tile installation.

Niche Construction Requirements

Before tile installation, niches must be:

• Properly framed between studs
• Lined with waterproof substrate
• Completely waterproofed including all interior surfaces
• Sloped slightly toward shower (to drain any water)

Niche Tile Installation

We tile niches with attention to:

Interior Surfaces

• Back wall tiled first
• Side walls tiled to meet back tile
• Bottom (sill) tiled with slight outward slope
• Top (header) tiled last

Edge Finishing

Niche edges can be finished with:

• Metal edge trim (Schluter or similar)
• Mitered tile edges for seamless look
• Bullnose tile if available in your selection

Integration with Wall Tile

Quality niche installation shows:

• Grout lines that align with surrounding wall tile
• Consistent spacing throughout
• Clean transitions at all edges
• Matching grout color inside and out

Poorly planned niches result in awkward tile cuts, misaligned grout lines, and unprofessional appearance.

Shower Bench Tile Installation

Built-in shower benches provide comfort and functionality, particularly in walk-in showers and aging-in-place designs.

Bench Construction

Before tiling, benches must be:

• Structurally sound (typically concrete block or foam core)
• Properly sloped for drainage (water shouldn’t pool on seat)
• Completely waterproofed on all surfaces
• Positioned at appropriate height (17-19 inches typical)

Bench Tile Installation

Bench tiling includes:

• Top surface with slight slope toward shower
• Front face tiled to meet floor
• Side surfaces if exposed
• Clean edge transitions using trim or mitered cuts

Grout: The Final Critical Step

Grout fills the joints between tiles, but grout selection and application significantly impact both appearance and performance.

Grout Types for Showers

Epoxy Grout or FA Grout

The premium choice for showers:

• Completely waterproof (not just water-resistant)
• Stain resistant—won’t absorb soap, shampoo, or body oils
• Never requires sealing
• More difficult to work with (requires experience)
• Higher material cost but superior long-term performance

Cement-Based Grout (Sanded or Unsanded)

Traditional grout option:

• Easier to work with than epoxy
• Lower material cost
• Requires sealing after installation
• Requires periodic resealing (annually recommended in showers)
• Can stain over time if not properly maintained

Grout Application Process

Timing

Grout is applied after tile has set for 24-48 hours. Grouting too soon can shift tiles and compromise bond.

Application

We apply grout using:

• Grout float held at proper angle
• Complete joint filling with no voids
• Diagonal passes to pack grout into joints
• Careful cleaning to remove excess without pulling from joints

Cleanup and Finishing

After initial set:

• Damp sponge wipe to remove haze
• Final polish once grout firms
• Inspection for any missed spots or voids
• Sealer application (for cement-based grout)

Caulk vs. Grout

Certain areas require caulk instead of grout:

• Where tile meets different surfaces (tub, shower pan)
• Inside corners (wall-to-wall transitions)
• Where tile meets fixtures
• Expansion joints in large tile areas

Caulk allows for movement and prevents cracking that would occur with rigid grout in these locations. We use color-matched caulk for seamless appearance.

Timeline for Shower Tile Installation (Large Walk-in)

Complete shower tile installation within a bathroom remodel typically follows this timeline:

Week 1: Demolition and Preparation

• Remove existing shower materials
• Inspect and repair any structural issues
• Install or modify plumbing as needed
• Frame niches, benches, or other features
• Install cement board or Hydro Ban Board substrate

Week 2: Waterproofing and Start Tile

• Apply complete S.W.A.N. Plan waterproofing system
• Allow proper curing time (24-48 hours)
• Begin shower floor tile installation
• Start wall tile installation

Week 3: Complete Tile Installation

• Finish wall tile on all surfaces
• Tile niches and benches
• Make all fixture cuts and detail work
• Apply grout and allow to cure

Week 4: Measure for glass and Install Plumbing Trim

• Measure for glass enclosure (after tile complete)
• Install shower fixtures and trim
• Apply caulk at all transitions
• Final detail work and inspection

Week 5: Glass Fabrication

• Custom glass panels fabricated (10-14 business days)
• No on-site work during this period

Week 6: Glass Installation and Completion

• Glass enclosure installation
• Final caulking and adjustments
• Project walkthrough and completion

For more details on bathroom project timelines, visit our Bathroom FAQs page.

Cost Factors for Shower Tile Installation

Shower tile installation costs vary based on several factors:

Tile Selection

• Basic porcelain: $5-10 per square foot
• Mid-range porcelain/ceramic: $10-20 per square foot
• Premium porcelain/large format: $20-35 per square foot
• Natural stone: $20-50+ per square foot
• Designer/specialty tile: $25-75+ per square foot

Shower Size and Complexity

• Standard alcove shower: Less tile, simpler installation
• Large walk-in shower: More tile, more labor
• Curbless shower: Additional waterproofing complexity
• Multiple niches or benches: Additional labor and materials
• Intricate patterns: More cuts, more time

Complete Shower Tile Project Pricing

Most East Valley shower tile installations (as part of complete bathroom remodels) range from $8,000-$18,000 for tile and installation, including:

• Substrate installation (cement board/Hydro Ban Board)
• Complete S.W.A.N. Plan waterproofing
• All tile materials (walls and floor)
• Professional installation with leveling systems
• Grout and sealing
• Caulking at transitions

This does not include:

• Demolition of existing shower
• Plumbing modifications
• Glass enclosure
• Fixtures and trim

For comprehensive bathroom remodeling pricing, see our bathroom remodeling cost guide.

Common Shower Tile Installation Mistakes We Fix

We frequently repair or replace showers that failed due to installation shortcuts:

Inadequate Waterproofing

The Problem: Waterproofing applied only at seams, or thin single-coat application that doesn’t provide complete coverage.

The Result: Water penetrates behind tile, causing mold, rot, and eventual failure.

Our Approach: Complete surface waterproofing with multiple coats, reinforced seams, and proper curing time.

Incorrect Shower Floor Slope

The Problem: Floor doesn’t slope properly toward drain, or slopes in wrong direction.

The Result: Water pools in corners, stands against walls, or drains slowly.

Our Approach: Verify slope at multiple points before and during tile installation, using level and straightedge to confirm proper drainage.

Large Tiles on Shower Floors

The Problem: Using large format tiles on sloped shower floors, which causes lippage and prevents proper slope.

The Result: Tripping hazards, water pooling, unprofessional appearance.

Our Approach: Appropriately sized tiles (2×2 or mosaic) on shower floors for proper slope conformity.

Grout Instead of Caulk at Transitions

The Problem: Using grout in corners and where tile meets different surfaces.

The Result: Cracked grout as materials expand and contract differently.

Our Approach: Caulk at all transitions, inside corners, and where different materials meet.

Rushing the Timeline

The Problem: Not allowing proper cure time for waterproofing, thinset, or grout.

The Result: Compromised adhesion, waterproofing failure, grout problems.

Our Approach: Building proper cure time into every project timeline—never rushing critical phases.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shower Tile Installation

How long does shower tile installation take?

Tile installation within a complete shower remodel typically takes 2-3 weeks for the tile portion specifically. This includes substrate installation, waterproofing (with cure time), floor tile, wall tile, niches/benches, and grouting. Complete shower remodels take 4-6 weeks total including glass fabrication.

Can you tile over existing shower tile?

In most cases, we don’t recommend tiling over existing tile. The existing tile may have waterproofing failures, the added thickness creates transition problems, and adhesion to existing tile is less reliable than adhesion to proper substrate. Removing existing tile allows us to inspect and repair any underlying issues and install proper waterproofing.

What’s the best tile for shower walls?

Porcelain tile is our top recommendation for shower walls—it’s durable, low-maintenance, and available in countless styles. Large format porcelain (12×24 or larger) creates modern, clean aesthetics. Ceramic tile works well for walls (less moisture exposure than floors). Natural stone is beautiful but requires more maintenance.

What’s the best tile for shower floors?

Small format porcelain tiles (2×2 inch or mosaic) with textured or matte finishes. Smaller tiles conform better to sloped surfaces and provide more grout lines for traction. Always verify adequate slip resistance (DCOF 0.42+) for wet conditions.

Do I need to seal shower tile?

Porcelain and ceramic tiles don’t require sealing. Natural stone tiles (marble, travertine) should be sealed before grouting and periodically thereafter. Cement-based grout should be sealed after installation and resealed annually in showers. Epoxy grout never requires sealing.

How do I maintain shower tile?

Daily: Squeegee walls after use. Weekly: Clean with pH-neutral tile cleaner. Monthly: Deep clean grout lines. Annually: Reseal grout (cement-based only), inspect caulk joints. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive scrubbers, and acidic cleaners (especially on natural stone).

Can any contractor install shower tile?

Many contractors can set tile, but shower tile installation requires specific expertise in waterproofing, slope work, and moisture management that general tile installers may lack. Always verify your contractor understands and implements proper shower waterproofing—not just tile setting.

What causes shower tile to fall off?

Tile failure typically results from: inadequate waterproofing (moisture behind tile), improper thinset application (insufficient coverage), wrong thinset type (using mastic instead of thinset), substrate failure (wrong backer material or water damage), or lack of proper surface preparation.

Why Choose Mustache Approved for Shower Tile Installation

Licensed General Contractor (ROC #309760)

As a licensed, bonded, and insured general contractor, we manage all aspects of your shower tile project—not just the tile setting, but the complete system including waterproofing, substrate, and coordination with plumbing and glass.

S.W.A.N. Plan Waterproofing Standard

Every shower receives our comprehensive S.W.A.N. Plan waterproofing system. We don’t cut corners on the invisible work that determines whether your shower lasts.

Tile Installation Expertise

Beyond waterproofing, we bring professional tile installation techniques:

• Tile leveling systems for perfect alignment
• Proper thinset selection and application
• Clean cuts around fixtures and edges
• Quality grout application and finishing

Complete Project Management

We handle your entire shower project from demolition through glass installation. One contractor, one point of contact, one source of accountability.

Proven Process

Our 6-step remodeling process ensures clear communication, quality results, and no surprises from consultation through completion.

Transparent Pricing

We provide detailed written estimates covering all work, materials, and timeline. No hidden costs, no surprise charges.

Serving the East Valley

We proudly provide professional shower tile installation and complete bathroom remodeling services throughout the East Valley:

• Gilbert
• Chandler
• Mesa
• Tempe
• Scottsdale
• Ahwatukee

Ready to Discuss Your Shower Tile Project?

Whether you’re planning a complete tub-to-shower conversion, building a new walk-in shower, or creating an accessible curbless shower design, contact Mustache Approved Remodeling to discuss your project.

We’ll evaluate your space, discuss tile options and design ideas, review your goals and budget, and provide a clear plan for your shower transformation.

Additional Resources:

• Bathroom Remodeling FAQs – Common questions answered
• View Our Bathroom Project Gallery – See completed shower projects
• S.W.A.N. Plan Waterproofing Guide – Learn about our waterproofing system
• Shower Waterproofing – Complete shower and tub surround waterproofing with our S.W.A.N. Plan system
• Bathtub Installation – Freestanding tubs, slipper tubs, jetted tubs, Roman tub decks & complete tub filler installation
• Tile Backsplash Installation – Professional kitchen backsplash tile
• Tile Flooring Installation – Premium porcelain floors for every room
• Flooring Installation – Complete flooring options including LVP, tile, and hardwood
• Schedule a Consultation Today

Mustache Approved Remodeling
ROC #309760 | Licensed, Bonded, Insured
Serving Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Tempe, Scottsdale & Ahwatukee