Choosing Tiles for Your Shower
There are several points to consider when choosing tiles for your shower. When thinking about the best tile for your project, it helps to focus on three main factors: shower tile cost, style, and durability. First, think about style. You want your shower tile to match the look and feel of the rest of your bathroom, as well as your personal taste. The right tile can tie the whole room together and make the shower a standout feature.
Next, review your budget. Take a careful look at how much tile you need and how much you can comfortably spend. Decide whether you can invest in higher-end tile or if it makes more sense to choose a basic, budget-friendly option and save on materials. Durability is also important. Some tiles hold up better in wet, high-traffic areas than others. To get the best return on investment for your shower remodel, choose a tile that is water-resistant, easy to maintain, and made to last.
You will quickly find that the most common tiles are popular for a reason. They are widely available in many colors and styles, cover a range of price points from budget to luxury, and can make a strong style statement in the bathroom. The most popular choices for shower tile include ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, and mosaic tile.
How Much Does It Cost to Install Shower Tile?
The average cost to tile a shower completely, including walls and floors, is between $1,800 and $4,000, depending on the size of the shower and the tiles you choose. This price usually includes three walls and the shower floor. Expect your total cost to increase if you add upgrades such as mosaic accents, handmade tiles, or custom patterns.
Ceramic Tile
This popular tile is in demand for good reason. It works well as flooring in the bathroom and for shower walls and floors. While ceramic tiles can be slick when not glazed, shower tiles are typically glazed and textured to reduce slipping.
Ceramic tile costs about $2 to $5 per square foot, and there is an enormous range of possibilities to fit any budget. Whether you choose a more upscale look or a basic tile, ceramic performs well in showers.
Ceramic comes in many colors, sizes, and patterns, including mosaics. It works well for shower floors, especially with slip-resistant texture, and is a great option for shower walls too.
Porcelain Tile
Ceramic and porcelain may look similar, but there is an important difference. Porcelain tiles are fired at a higher temperature, which makes them denser, stronger, and often more durable than standard ceramic. That is why porcelain is often used in other highly used areas, such as bathroom floors and sinks.
At $3 to $10 per square foot on average, porcelain is still on the budget-friendly end compared to many premium materials. Porcelain’s “through-body” construction means that if a tile chips, the color underneath is similar to the color on top, making damage less noticeable.
Because porcelain is dense and harder to cut, it is usually best to have it installed by a professional tile contractor.
Natural Stone
If you want a more luxurious and natural look, natural stone is an excellent choice for shower walls and floors. Many stone tiles have a naturally textured surface that feels comfortable underfoot. Popular natural stone options include limestone, granite, travertine, marble, and slate.
Natural stone tile typically costs $4 to $16 per square foot. Stone must be sealed during installation and resealed over time to protect it from moisture and staining. While stone does not offer as many bright, uniform colors as ceramic or porcelain, it delivers a beautiful, organic look with unique textures, veins, and patterns that make each shower one-of-a-kind.
Mosaic Tile
Mosaic tiles are often used as borders or accent features because they add bold visual interest. They are usually made of ceramic or glass and measure about two inches or smaller on each side. Most mosaics are sold in sheets with mesh backing, making them easier to install while preserving the pattern.
Mosaic shower tiles generally cost $16 to $30 per square foot for machine-made designs and up to $50 per square foot for handmade mosaics. Because of their higher cost, many homeowners use mosaics in smaller areas, such as built-in niches, a decorative band, or a feature wall, rather than across the entire shower.
Mosaics can also be used for full shower walls or floors if you want a highly custom, designer look and are comfortable with the added cost.
Other Costs Involved During a Shower Tile Installation
The cost to tile a shower includes more than just the tile itself. To build an accurate budget, consider the additional costs below if they apply to your project.
Removal of the Existing Shower
If you are replacing a fiberglass shower or old tile, demolition will be part of the cost. Removing an existing shower can range from $50 to $200, and removing old tile typically costs $1 to $4 per square foot. Some contractors may also charge $30 to $120 for disposal of demolition debris.
Surprises Behind the Walls
When shower walls are opened, contractors may find hidden issues like leaks, water damage, or outdated electrical work. Depending on the problem, repairs can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. It is wise to set aside extra budget for unforeseen issues.
Testing for Mold
Water damage can lead to mold behind the walls. Some mold is harmless, but other types are hazardous and must be removed. Mold testing is relatively inexpensive, but remediation can cost $1,200 to $3,200 or more, depending on the extent of the problem. If no mold is found, it is still a good reminder to maintain your new shower regularly.
Material Costs
Beyond tile, you will need grout, thin-set, waterproofing materials, and other supplies. These often add $200 to $300 to your project. Your contractor’s quote will usually include these materials.
Hotel Room Costs
Your bathroom may be out of service for several days during demolition and installation. For households with one bathroom, or for anyone sensitive to dust and construction debris, staying in a hotel or with friends or family during the project may be worth considering.
Local Labor Costs
Labor is a major part of shower tile installation. Depending on your location, you can expect labor for tile installation to cost around $8 to $10 per square foot. Complex patterns, mosaics, or detailed layouts can increase labor time and cost.
Can Shower Tiles Be Repaired?
If you are not ready for a full remodel but have a few cracked or damaged tiles, repair is possible. A contractor can carefully remove the damaged tile, thin-set, and grout, then replace it with a new tile. However, there are a few considerations.
If your shower uses a uniform tile color or pattern, new tiles may not match perfectly, especially if the line has been discontinued or the existing tiles have aged. Even a small difference in color or finish can stand out.
Repairing one or two tiles is usually a small job and can often be completed in a day for around $300 to $400. After the repair, you will need to let the grout and sealant cure for a few days before using the shower.
In some cases, visible damage or underlying issues can signal a larger problem. Signs you may need a full shower replacement include:
- Tile grout that is swelling, cracking, or showing discoloration.
- Single tiles that are crooked, loose, or shifting.
- Musty odors that do not go away after cleaning.
- Tiles pulling away from the wall.
- Caulk peeling or separating around fixtures and along the base.
If you notice these issues, ignoring them can lead to more serious and expensive damage. A bathroom remodeling contractor can inspect your shower and advise whether repair or replacement is the better option.
Additional Shower Remodel Cost Considerations
When replacing shower tile, you may decide it is also a good time to upgrade other parts of your shower. Here are common add-ons and their typical costs:
- Glass Door: Framed doors usually cost $400 to $1,100 installed. Frameless doors are more expensive at $600 to $1,900.
- New Showerhead: Prices range from about $20 for basic models to over $200 for luxury or multi-function heads.
- Shower Fixtures: Full fixture sets can cost $50 to $500, depending on style and brand.
- Shower Frames And Seals: Replacing worn seals often costs $20 to $50, with frames costing more.
- New Shower Drain: Including installation, shower drains typically cost $300 to $400.
Finding a Shower Tile Installation Contractor
When you are ready to move forward with shower tile installation or any part of a shower remodel, Modernize can help you connect with trusted local contractors. Get multiple quotes so you can compare pricing, timelines, and materials, and use a contractor checklist to ask the right questions before you hire. A qualified pro will help you choose the best tile for your space, install it correctly, and create a shower you will enjoy for years to come.
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