Best Tiles for Shower Walls and Floors

Choosing the best tile for showers can enhance the look, functionality, and durability of your bathroom. In this guide, we cover the top tiles for shower floors and walls, tiles to avoid, and tips on tile placement to help you create the perfect shower.

Remember that tile isn’t just a design choice. It also serves the important purpose in keeping your bathroom free of moisture damage. In this guide to the best tiles for showers, we will discuss which types of tile to choose for your shower that will look good, fit your budget, withstand exposure to water, and keep you safe.

Best Tile for Shower Floors

When picking out the best shower tiles for a remodel, the top factors to consider are cost, safety, water-resistance, and of course, appearance. While some homeowners choose the same type of tile to cover their shower floors and walls, shower floors should get special attention for safety purposes.

When you and your family are showering, you want to make sure that the floor is not slippery. Choosing smaller, or mosaic-style, tiles will help give your feet more grip. Tiles that are textured and matte will help prevent slips and falls as well. As you choose your tile, you can look at its dynamic coefficient of friction, or DCOF rating. It’s recommended that tiles that are going to be used in wet areas, like the shower, have a DCOF rating of 0.42 or higher.

Mosaic shower tiles also come in a few different options for materials to fit most budgets. Below you will find the best choices for shower floor materials.

Porcelain and Ceramic Tile

Porcelain and ceramic tiles are popular choices for shower floors due to their durability and water resistance. These tiles are made from dense materials, making them highly resistant to water, stains, and scratches. They come in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and sizes, allowing for great design flexibility. Additionally, they can be found in textured finishes that reduce the risk of slipping, enhancing safety.

However, porcelain and ceramic tiles can be challenging to install, often requiring professional help to ensure proper waterproofing. They can also feel cold underfoot unless paired with radiant floor heating, which is an additional consideration for comfort.

the cost of porcelain and ceramic bathroom tile varies depending on the quality, design, and size of the tiles. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $3 to $10 per square foot for ceramic tiles. Porcelain tiles, known for their higher durability and water resistance, typically range from $5 to $15 per square foot.

Installation costs for both types of tile usually add an additional $5 to $10 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the job and local labor rates. High-end designer tiles or custom patterns may increase the overall cost, but there are numerous options available to fit different budgets and design preferences.

Find Local Bathroom Pros

Best Tiles for Shower Walls and Backsplashes

While ceramic and porcelain tiles work best for shower floors, they are also a good fit for shower walls thanks to their waterproof and non-slip qualities when glazed. In fact, ceramic and porcelain tiles are found on tons of shower walls in U.S. homes. However, because shower walls do not get as much direct contact as the floors, there are additional tile options that can be a good fit.

When choosing shower wall tiles, think about how easy it will be to clean, tile size and appearance, water resistance, and cost. Larger tiles, for example, can work well for shower walls because they do not need to be as non-slip as shower floors. Some homeowners will also want to vary their shower floor and shower wall tiles for a more modern look.

In addition to ceramic and porcelain, you might want to consider the following materials for shower walls and shower backsplash tiles.

Large Format Tiles

Large format tiles are ideal for creating a sleek, modern look in your shower. These tiles cover more area with fewer grout lines, which not only looks great but also makes cleaning easier. The minimal grout lines reduce the chances of mold and mildew growth, contributing to a cleaner shower environment.

However, large format tiles can be more challenging to install due to their size. Professional installation is often required to ensure a smooth and even application. Despite this, the end result is a visually appealing, low-maintenance shower wall.

Subway Tiles

Subway tiles have a timeless appeal and are a versatile option for shower walls and backsplashes. They fit well with various design styles, from traditional to modern, and their classic look never goes out of style. Subway tiles are relatively easy to install and are available in a variety of colors and finishes.

The main downside of subway tiles is the grout maintenance. The numerous grout lines can become a breeding ground for mold and mildew if not properly maintained. Regular cleaning and occasional re-grouting are necessary to keep them looking their best.

Glass Tiles

Glass tiles are a beautiful and reflective option for shower walls, adding depth and light to the space. They are available in many colors and finishes, allowing for unique and vibrant designs. Glass tiles are non-porous, making them resistant to stains and easy to clean.

Glass tiles can give your shower a bright, airy, and transparent appearance. For smaller bathrooms, this can help to lighten the space and make the room appear larger – especially when paired with sleek frameless glass shower doors.

The main drawback of glass tiles is their cost. They can be more expensive than ceramic or porcelain tiles, and their installation requires precision to avoid visible adhesive. Additionally, if they are not properly maintained, they can show water spots and soap scum more readily.

Find Local Bathroom Pros

Tiles to Avoid in Showers

Choosing the wrong type of tile can lead to issues with maintenance, safety, and longevity. Here are some tiles to avoid for showers:

Glossy Finish Tiles

Glossy finish tiles may look appealing, but they can be highly slippery when wet, posing a significant safety risk in a shower environment. The slick surface increases the likelihood of slips and falls, making them a poor choice for shower floors and walls.

Soft Stone Tiles (Marble, Limestone)

While marble and limestone can add a touch of elegance to any bathroom, they are highly porous and prone to staining and etching. These soft stone tiles require frequent sealing and maintenance to prevent damage from water and cleaning products. Their high maintenance needs and vulnerability to damage make them less suitable for showers.

Large Format Tiles on Floors

Large format tiles can be problematic on shower floors due to their size. They provide fewer grout lines, which means less grip and an increased risk of slipping. Additionally, their large size can make it difficult to properly slope the floor towards the drain, potentially leading to drainage issues.

The Versatility of Ceramic and Porcelain Tile

As we mentioned before, ceramic and porcelain tile can be made into practically any shape in a variety of sizes, colors and prints. This means you can also go for that natural stone look without having to worry about the cost or upkeep of the real thing.

If you love the look of marble, stone, wood or concrete, there are glazed porcelain and ceramic tiles out there that are painted to look just like it. Not only will your shower look great, you will also rest easy knowing that it will be easy to clean and ready to withstand its watery abode for decades to come.

Where to Stop Tile in a Shower: 8 Feet or Ceiling?

Deciding where to stop your tile can impact both the aesthetic and functionality of your shower.

Tile Up to 8 Feet

Tiling up to 8 feet is a common choice that offers several advantages. It is more cost-effective than tiling all the way to the ceiling because it uses less material and requires less labor. This height provides adequate protection from water in most shower areas and maintains a traditional look that is familiar in many homes.

However, stopping at 8 feet can leave the upper walls vulnerable to water damage, especially in steam showers. Additionally, painted walls above the tile can be harder to clean and maintain, potentially leading to mold and mildew issues over time.

Tile Up to the Ceiling

Tiling up to the ceiling offers complete protection against water damage, making it an excellent choice for wet environments. This option provides a seamless, modern appearance that can make the shower area feel larger and more open. Full-height tiling also eliminates the need for additional maintenance of painted surfaces.

The main disadvantage of tiling up to the ceiling is the higher cost, as it requires more materials and labor. The installation process is also more complex, often requiring professional help to ensure a flawless finish.

Finding a Professional Shower Tile Installer

Selecting the best tile for showers involves balancing aesthetics, functionality, and maintenance. Porcelain, ceramic, and mosaic tiles are excellent choices for floors, while large format, subway, and glass tiles are ideal for walls and backsplashes. Avoid glossy finishes and soft stone tiles to prevent safety hazards and excessive maintenance. Additionally, consider tiling up to the ceiling for complete protection and a modern look.

If you are in the process of planning a larger bathroom remodel, we recommend taking a look at our full bathroom remodel guide. We can answer any questions you might have about the remodeling process, and point you in the right direction for exploring types of showers, sinks, bathtubs, and more. If you are ready to speak with a contractor, take advantage of our growing network of trustworthy contractors in your area to compare the best prices.