Yes, it is possible to install a shower niche after tile. The process of doing so depends on the materials you are working with and the type of tile you are using. Generally, it involves creating or modifying an opening in the tile wall, as well as creating a seal between the tile and the niche to ensure that the niche is fully waterproof.
If the niche has a different material than the tile, it may be necessary to make sure that mortar or thinset is used to create an even plane and a good bond between the two. It is important to note that the opening must be properly sized and the tile around the niche should be reinforced to ensure that the whole installation is stable and secure.
Finally, you should make sure that the niche is properly sealed and caulked to ensure that no water will penetrate the wall.
Can I install a niche in an existing shower?
Yes, you can install a niche in an existing shower. The installation process for this will largely depend on the type of wall material you have, such as if it is tile or drywall. For the most part, niche installation requires cutting out the wall material, installing the niche, and then waterproofing and patching the opening.
If the wall material is tile, you will likely have to lay out where your niche will go and then carefully take out each tile to create your opening. From there, you will secure your niche, waterproof the entire area, and then re-tile the wall.
On the other hand, if you have a drywall wall, you will have to frame out the wall to install your niche, as well as installing drywall mud and repairing the drywall. A niche is a great addition to a shower or bath and can be installed in an existing one with careful planning and installation techniques.
When should I install shower niche?
The best time to install a shower niche is during the initial installation of your shower or updating your existing shower. This makes it easier to find the correct spot to house the niche and ensure that it is level and properly installed.
If plumbing and framing already exist it can be more challenging to install a niche after the fact. Additionally, many building materials like tile and cement need to be installed before the niche can be added.
If you already have a shower built but would like to install a niche, you may need to consult with a professional to help determine the feasibility and best location for the niche.
What order do you tile a shower niche?
When tiling a shower niche, it is important to plan the order of application of the tiles for best aesthetic results. Generally, it is helpful to start with a tile plan, sketching the shower niche on paper or digitally.
First, you should begin by filling in the center of the niche with full tiles and then work outward. This ensures that any cuts will be on the edges and look more uniform than if the opposite technique is used.
You may want to dry fit all pieces before adhering them to the wall to hone in on the final design.
Next, begin adhering the tiles to the wall or substrate. When working with tile spacers, it is recommended to level the spacers before inserting the tile. This method helps to ensure that the tiles don’t dislodge during the setting process.
Begin with the largest tiles first and press each tile firmly onto the wall or substrate.
Finally, use grout to fill in the spaces between the tiles after the adhesive has set. After the grout has been smoothed across the niche, allow it to dry. Once it is dry, clean up any excess grout between the tiles and enjoy the finished product!.
What to do after tile is laid?
Once the tile is laid, you will need to grout the seams between the tiles. You should use sanded grout for tile installations that are wider than 1/8 inch, or non-sanded grout if the gaps are between 1/16-1/8 inches.
You can purchase ready-mixed grout or powder that must be mixed before use. When grouting, apply the grout to the entire surface with a grout float, making sure to press it into all the seams. After that, remove the excess grout and any haze with a damp sponge.
Be sure to change the water often to prevent it becoming too full of grout residue. Allow the grout to dry completely before you apply a sealer. Applying a sealer will help protect the grout from staining, mold, and mildew.
Allow the sealer to fully dry before you use the area.
How do you install shelves in a tiled shower?
Installing shelves in a tiled shower can be a challenging task, but it can be done with the right tools and materials. First, you will need to measure the area you want to install the shelves in. This will help you determine the materials you will need and the exact location of where you want the shelves to be.
When selecting the shelves, make sure they are the right width and depth to fit the space.
Once you have the right materials and dimensions, you will need to create holes in the tile in order to secure the shelf. This can be done with a masonry bit and drill. The best way to ensure accuracy is to use a template for the holes.
Mark the template centering the holes for the shelf onto the tiles and drill the holes into the tile.
Next, attach the shelf to the tile using wall anchors and screws. Make sure to use the appropriate screws for the material the shelf is made from. After the shelf has been installed, you can grout the tiles around the shelf.
This will help to make the shelf more secure and give it a finished look.
Once the grout has had time to dry, you can load the shelf up with whatever items you want to store. Installing shelves in a tiled shower may require some effort, but by following these steps you can create a functionally and aesthetically appealing addition to your bathroom.
Can you put shelves over tiles?
Yes, you can put shelves over tiles. Doing so is an excellent way to maximize available space and visually declutter a room. When installing shelves on tiles, it is important to use screws and wall anchors specifically designed for tile and to ensure that the screws are long enough to grip into the wall stud.
Additionally, it is important to ensure that the weight of the items being stored on the shelves is appropriate for the type of shelves and the number of screws and wall anchors used. Be sure to read and follow any instructions provided by the shelf manufacturer.
How do you attach a shelf to a ceramic shower?
Attaching a shelf to a ceramic shower can require a few different steps and materials, depending on the shelf and shower. The most important thing to understand before attempting to attach a shelf is the varying weight limits of different adhesives.
If the shelf is heavier than the adhesive can handle, it will have to be secured with a more secure option, such as anchors, which must be installed using a drill.
For lighter shelf options, the adhesive route may be the best option. For this, it is best to choose specialized tile adhesive, such as mastic. Depending on the weight of the shelf, the adhesive should be applied at least 1/4-1/2 inch thick, generally 1/4 inch per 4 pounds, and allowed to cure for the full recommended time on the product, 24-48 hours.
This will ensure it holds the shelf to the shower wall.
When the adhesive has cured, the shelf can be securely mounted to the wall. If the shelf is large and has two or more mounting points, it’s best to measure and make sure the shelf is attached in a level position, as a crooked shelf can create a loose fit.
Once mounted and level, the shelf is secure on the wall and can be used to store items in the shower.
What to do if your shower has no shelves?
If your shower has no shelves, there are several ways to make up for the lack of storage in the bathroom. One option is to use adhesive hooks on the walls of the shower or tub to hang items such as razors, washcloths, and other items that don’t need to stay along the bottom of the shower.
Another option is to install tension rods inside the tub to hang shower caddies on. This can be especially useful if you have shampoo and body wash containers that need somewhere to live. A third option is to build shelves into the wall of the shower or attach slotted shelves with suction cups to the walls of the shower or tub to keep needed items within reach.
Additionally, there are shower racks specifically made to fit into the corner of the shower or tub that can hold items such as soaps, scrubs, and other small items. Whatever you choose, adding these different storage options to your shower can help to make up for the lack of shelves.
What can you not put on a tile shower?
Including metal, paint, and oil-based soaps. Metal objects can scratch the tile surface and cause damage over time. Paint can react with the grout and cause discoloration. Oil-based soaps can leave a greasy film that is difficult to remove and can damage the tile and shifting the grout over time.
It is also important to avoid abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, and solvents such as benzene, lacquer thinner, and acetone, as they can damage the tile and grout.
How can I get more storage in my shower?
One of the best ways to get more storage in your shower is to install a corner shelf unit. These types of shelves offer ample storage space and can fit into even the smallest of showers. They are also easy to install and come in a variety of materials, such as stainless steel, glass, and plastic.
If you don’t have room for a corner shelf, you can also look into utilizing the walls and ceiling of your shower. Wall-mounted storage racks and cabinets can provide extra space for soap, shampoo, and other toiletries.
Another option is to hang wire baskets from the ceiling or from a door. These baskets are perfect for storing smaller items, such as razors, shower scrubbers, and hairbrushes.
No matter what type of additional storage you are looking for, there are countless options for adding extra space to your shower. With the right fixtures and accessories, you can maximize the storage capabilities of any bathroom, large or small.
What is tiled shelf in shower called?
A tiled shelf in a shower is often referred to as a shower niche. Shower niches are small shelves built into the shower surround or shower wall. They provide convenient storage space for items like shampoo, soap, or other small items that you want in the shower.
These shelves can be either recessed into the tile or surface mounted. Some people opt to build the shower niche into the shower wall while it is being framed, while others prefer to build an attractive niche out of tile during the remodel process.
Either way, the shower niche provides an easy storage solution while adding the perfect accent to the bathroom décor.
What is the correct order to tile a shower?
The correct order to tile a shower is as follows:
1. Begin by preparing the surface. Make sure the shower walls are clean and free of any dirt, mildew, or other obstructions. Make sure to seal any holes with a waterproof sealant.
2. Apply a waterproof membrane to the shower walls. Tape the membrane to the walls so it is secure.
3. Begin laying the backerboard in sections. Make sure to place the screws an appropriate distance apart (usually 8-10 inches). This will give your surface a secure base for your tiles.
4. Before you begin tiling, make sure to spread a layer of thinset onto the backerboard. This will act as an adhesive for your tiles.
5. Now you can begin laying the tiles. Start from the middle and work your way to the edges. Place pressure onto each tile as you go to ensure a secure bond with the thinset. If needed, use a rubber mallet for difficult to fit tiles.
6.When all the tiles are in place, allow them to dry overnight.
7. Apply grout to fill in the gaps between the tiles. Make sure to spread it evenly and use a damp sponge to wipe away any excess.
8. Allow the grout to dry overnight before applying a sealant to your newly tiled shower walls.
How do you line up a niche with tile?
In order to line up a niche with tile, first use a level and a straight edge to draw a line along the top edge of the niche and mark it in centimeters or inches. Then, use a tile saw to cut the tiles based on the marked lines.
Once the tiles are cut, use a notched trowel to apply adhesive on the niche wall. Place the tiles along the marked line, and use a tile spacer to make sure the gaps between the tiles are equal. Once the tiles are in place, use a grout float to fill the joints with cement-based grout and then remove any excess grout with a damp sponge.
After the grout has cured, use a backer rod and a sealant to seal the tile joints. Finally, inspect to ensure that the tiles are level and correctly aligned.
Which shower wall gets tiled first?
When tiling a shower, it is important to start with the wall that forms the base of the shower. This will be the wall closest to the curb. The advantage to starting with this wall is that it sets the stage for the other walls, as it will dictate the angle of the tiles and how the tiles should line up along the walls.
Once the wall closest to the curb is complete, the rest of the walls can follow this pattern. It may be helpful to dry-fit the tiles on this wall before installing them as this will help you to visualize the exact angle of where the tiles should go.
Additionally, starting with the wall closest to the curb also makes sure that the shower will function properly, as it will ensure that the water drains out properly and that the walls are even and smooth, helping to make sure that moisture does not get trapped behind the tiles.