How to Replace Old Shower Tile

To restore just a single old shower tile is not a difficult repair. Some tiles just keep falling from their location, allowing mold to develop. Apart from the falling tiles, the substructure of the tiled areas should be carefully inspected because water would have dominated the area; however, there are home improvements that can help a homeowner address this problem. Below are the materials that you need along with the step by step procedure on how to replace your old shower tile to rejuvenate your bathroom area.

Step 1 - Inspect the Area

Old tiles should be removed from the area. Inspect under the tiles that were removed for signs of moisture that may have reached the backerboard. If this is seen, the backerboard needs to be replaced. Inspection of leaks should also be done at this stage so that proper plumbing may be done before the actual tile work.

Step 2 - Replace Old Boards

When the area where the tiles fall off has a green board underneath, the board needs to be replaced with board that is made for wet areas. A home improvement store could best suggest what type of board to be used as there are various types available in the market.

Step 3 - Lay Out the Tiles

The tiles to be used for the replacement should be laid out on a template. It would be necessary to draw a pattern of how the tiles will be laid.

Step 4 - Cutting the Tiles

Cutting the tiles would be dependent on the kind of tiles. A tile cutter may be used to cut tiles. If the tiles are ceramic, use nippers to cut them. A saw is used to cut stone tiles.

Step 5 - Marking a Reference Point

Make a reference point by drawing a vertical line to mark it.

Step 6 - Install the Tiles

Apply thinset to the lower area. Begin at the top middle portion of the line. When each tile is placed, make it pass through the thinset so as to give it a coat. Hold it for a few minutes then go on applying to the next row. Usually the bottom row is the hardest to do, so it is best that this area be completed first. Check the grout lines to ensure that they make a straight line.

Step 7 - Sealing and Cleaning the Tiles

When the tile replacement is done, allow the area to dry overnight. Clean the faces of the tiles once they are completely dry. After cleaning, apply a sealer into the tiles. On the grout, apply a trowel by covering the whole surface of the grout line. Before cleaning the tiles, allow the area to dry fully, which could take a week.