How to Tile a Bathroom Wall

Figure A

Steps:

1. First, measure the width and height of all areas to be covered and take those measurements to your local home center. They can help you determine how many tiles and how much backerboard you will need. Use a level to draw the height line around the perimeter of the bathtub.

2. Inspect the wall area to ensure the condition and patch any holes before installing the backerboard. Determine where the studs are in the wall with a studfinder and mark the locations.

3. Use a utility knife to score the backerboard to the correct dimensions. Use a drill to create pilot holes in the backerboard where the studs will be located.

Figure B

4. Next, apply adhesive to the wall with a trowel and attach the backerboards to the walls with galvanized screws. Cover all seams with fiberglass joint tape and apply a coat of joint compound with a joint knife. After allowing the compound to dry, the backerboard is now firmly in place.

Figure C

5. You are ready to apply the ceramic tiles. Keep in mind that you want to use full tiles where they are most visible and cut tiles where they are least visible. Use a tile stick to lay out a row of tiles on the floor, using plastic spacers. Be sure to include any pattern or accent tiles you'll be using. With a pencil, mark the tile and grout spacing.

Figure D

6. Next, measure for the center point on the wall. This will be the starting point. Using a level, draw a vertical line though the center point. Use the tile stick to transfer the horizontal and vertical tile placements around the tub, working from the vertical line. When done, this will reveal a checkerboard pattern that shows the tile placements and what tile cuts you will need.

Figure E

7. With a trowel, scoop adhesive and spread out a small section on the wall (in an upwards combing motion). Set the first tile to the wall with a twisting motion. Use spacers inserted in the joints to maintain even grout lines. Measure your cuts and cut tiles with a wet saw when necessary. Use bullnose tiles with rounded edges for the trim.

8. When all tiles are placed, ensure that the tile is nicely seated by tapping the tiles with a 2x4 wood block wrapped in towel.

Figure F

9. Once the tiles have set, it's time to add grout. Scoop out grout with a rubber grout float and spread across the surface, working diagonally across the tiles. Do not grout the joints along the bathtub--those are for caulk. It will take about five minutes for the grout to set up.

10. After five to seven minutes, wipe the tiles down with a damp cloth. You do not want the grout to harden on the tiles, but don't wipe so hard that you pull grout from the grout lines.

Figure G

11. Finally, run a bead of silicone caulk along the gap between tub and tiles. When using silicone caulk, keep a steady bead and stay as smooth as you can. You may also need to caulk around any fixtures and plumbing.

12. You may need to seal the grout and/or tile after 48 hours. This is an easy application; simply apply the sealant directly to the grout lines with the tip of a square sponge. This project will take about three days to complete (with drying time) but only costs around $100.