How to Tile Bathroom Walls

Ceramic tile can provide a very distinctive look in your bathroom. It is very durable and lasts over a period of time. However, if you have never done a project like this and are wondering how to tile bathroom walls, then theses tips hopefully will help you because it is very important that the tile is installed properly.

The first thing you need to do is to make sure the wall is going to be strong enough to hold the weight of the tile. Some homeowners install tile directly over wood, this is not a wise thing to do. A cement backing board will make the tile more permanent and durable, if it is properly installed.

Before starting this project, you should take out all the baseboards and electrical outlet covers. Then take off the headboards and the door jam, including the door itself. Next remove the commode and sink, and the shower spout as well as the trim and the tub.

Measure the length and width of the area and multiply them, always add a 10% margin so you will have extra tiles left over in case of breakage or you have to replace some damaged tile in the future. Using a chalk line, mark every other joint or tile edge. Measure the tile including the joints and mark the wall into squares so that 4 12x12” tiles fit into a square along with the joint next to them. After marking the area, you can start anywhere, as long as you stay within the square and you always do the same edge of the square.

It is a good idea to lay the new tile side by side on the floor to give you an idea of how the wall is to look. Keep in mind to allow room for the grout. This preparation before you actually start affixing the tiles is an important step in how to tile bathroom walls, so don't skip it.

Using a thin set mortar, rub a small section of tile adhesive on the wall spreading it  thickly, remembering to leave enough space for the grout groves, this can be done using plastic spacers, and plastic wedges in case you need to raise a tile on one or two sides. Always use at least a 6’ straight edge to check your work and to ensure that it is flat and even. When all the tiles are set, use a small brush to make sure there is no adhesive in the grooves; this will cause the grout to dry unevenly.

If you use soft ceramic tile on the walls you should use an unsanded grout or an epoxy type grout. If you are going to use porcelain or granite tile, you should use a sanded grout.

Once the grouting is finished and you have cleaned the grout as best as you could and there is still a film on the tiles, you can wet the grout to keep it moist and to keep it from discoloring, you can use real lemon juice straight from the lemon, wiping it on and letting it stand for a few minutes then scrub it with a scotch-brite pad. Rinse it off and repeat this procedure if you need to. Knowing how to tile bathroom walls should include knowing how to keep them looking good, too.