Tile Shower Floor On Concrete

Installing a tile shower floor on concrete requires careful preparation and a few specialized tools. However, with a little planning and effort, you can create a beautiful and durable shower floor that will last for years to come.

Materials

Concrete backer board
Thinset mortar
Tile spacers
Grout
Tile saw
Notched trowel
Float
Sponge
Caulk

Instructions

1. Prepare the concrete floor by cleaning it thoroughly and removing any dirt or debris. The floor should be level and smooth, with no cracks or holes.

2. Install the concrete backer board over the concrete floor. The backer board should be cut to size and screwed into the concrete floor with backer board screws.

3. Apply a thin layer of thinset mortar to the backer board using a notched trowel. The mortar should be spread evenly and combed in one direction.

4. Set the tiles into the thinset mortar, pressing them down firmly and evenly spaced using tile spacers.

5. Allow the thinset mortar to dry completely, typically 24 hours.

6. Mix the grout according to the manufacturer's instructions. Apply the grout to the joints between the tiles using a float. Work the grout into the joints, being careful not to overfill them.

7. Allow the grout to dry completely, typically 24 hours.

8. Clean the tiles and grout with a sponge. Remove any excess grout or thinset mortar.

9. Apply a bead of caulk around the perimeter of the shower floor, where the tiles meet the walls or shower pan.

10. Allow the caulk to dry completely, typically 24 hours.

Tips

Use a tile saw to cut the tiles to size. A tile saw will give you clean, precise cuts.
Use a notched trowel to apply the thinset mortar. A notched trowel will help to evenly distribute the mortar and prevent it from building up under the tiles.
Press the tiles down firmly into the thinset mortar. This will help to ensure that the tiles are securely bonded to the backer board.
Allow the thinset mortar and grout to dry completely before using the shower. This will help to prevent the tiles from cracking or becoming loose.
Clean the tiles and grout regularly to keep them looking their best.