Planning a Bathroom Tile Project: A Step-by-Step Guide
From choosing tile to waterproofing and grout, here is what happens during a bathroom tile project — and the decisions you’ll want to make early.
A good tile job looks simple when it is finished, but most of the work happens before the first tile goes down. Here is how we plan a typical bathroom tile project.
1. Choose tile with the room in mind
Porcelain is dense and very water-resistant, which makes it ideal for floors and showers. Ceramic is lighter and easier to cut, and works well on walls. For shower floors, smaller tiles or textured finishes give better grip.
2. Decide on the layout
Large-format tiles mean fewer grout lines but need a very flat surface. We plan the layout so cuts land in less visible areas and patterns stay centred on the room or the vanity.
3. Prepare and waterproof
In wet areas, tile is not the waterproofing — the membrane behind it is. Shower walls get cement board and a waterproofing membrane; floors are checked for flatness and stiffness.
4. Set, grout and seal
Tile is set with the right thin-set for its size and type, then grouted. Cementitious grout may need sealing; many modern grouts do not. Movement joints at corners and changes of plane are finished with flexible sealant.
5. Allow curing time
Most showers can be used after the grout and sealant have cured — usually a few days. We will give you the exact timing for the products used.
Decisions to make early
- Tile size and finish for floors and walls
- Niche location and size
- Grout colour
- Trim or edge profiles
Questions & answers
Do I supply the tile?
Either works. We can source tile or install tile you have chosen — we will confirm quantities, including extra for cuts and future repairs.
How long does a bathroom tile project take?
A typical main bathroom takes one to two weeks depending on demolition, waterproofing and curing times.
