How to Install a Thick-Set Ceramic Tile Shower Floor
- 1). Divide the shower floor into four square sections, using your level and pencil to make two intersecting lines. The drain will usually be right at the center. In any case, draw the lines right over the drain, as if it isn't there.
- 2). Lay tile in two intersecting rows along the lines, without using adhesive. Insert spacers between them. Cover the drain completely with tiles.
- 3). Trace the shape of the drain onto the faces of the tiles, assessing the drain position through the spaces between them. Redraw the curved lines so they are back from the actual drain edge by ¼ inch.
- 4). Cut the marked tiles on your tile saw.
- 5). Spread a layer of adhesive around the drain, using an adhesive trowel. Press the tiles into place with the cuts forming a perimeter ¼ inch back from the drain edge.
- 6). Tile the rest of the floor, spreading more adhesive and setting the tiles along the lines you drew. Build out in a grid pattern to cover the whole surface, putting spacers between the tiles as you lay them. Cut the tiles at the ends on your saw. Let the tiles set for eight hours and remove the spacers.
- 7). Spread grout over the whole floor with your grout float, forcing it into the spaces and wiping up the excess grout with a dampened sponge. Let the grout set for two to three days.
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