Best Tile For Shower Walls
Choosing the right tile for your shower walls can be tricky. One fact to consider is that certain materials work better in wet environments. This article will guide you through selecting the best tile for both beauty and durability.
Keep reading to transform your bathroom.
Best Types of Tile for Shower Walls and Floors
Porcelain
Porcelain tiles stand out as the best tile for shower walls and floors. They are known for their durability and moisture resistance, making them perfect for the wet environment of a bathroom.
These tiles can handle heavy foot traffic without showing signs of wear. Porcelain is also very easy to clean, requiring just simple maintenance to keep it looking new.
Many homeowners prefer porcelain because it comes in a variety of colors and designs. You can find porcelain tiles that mimic natural stone, wood, or even fabric textures, giving your bathroom a unique look.
This versatility allows you to match your shower area with the rest of your bathroom design seamlessly. Plus, porcelain’s dense structure makes it less likely to absorb water, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth in your shower space.
Ceramic
Ceramic tiles are a popular choice for shower walls due to their durability and moisture resistance. They come in various colors, shapes, and sizes, making it easy to find a style that fits your bathroom.
These tiles are also easier to clean compared to other materials, which means less work maintaining your shower’s beauty over time. You can choose glazed ceramic tiles for extra protection against water damage.
This makes ceramic an excellent option for both the aesthetic and practical needs of your bathroom.
Moving on from ceramic, let’s explore the elegance natural stone brings to shower walls and floors.
Natural Stone (Travertine, Granite, Slate, Marble)
Moving from the smooth and uniform appearance of ceramic, natural stone tiles bring a piece of the earth’s raw beauty into your shower. These tiles include travertine, granite, slate, and marble.
Each type offers unique colors and patterns. This means no two tiles are exactly alike. Natural stone adds luxury and texture to your bathroom walls.
Natural stone tiles, like marble shower tiles or granite wall tile, require some care to keep them looking great. They need sealing to protect against moisture and stains. Yet, their durability makes them a long-lasting option for both shower floors and walls.
Their rich look can turn any small bathroom into a modern bathroom oasis.
Glass
Glass tiles for shower walls and floors are an excellent choice, especially for homeowners seeking a modern and sleek aesthetic. Glass tiles come in a variety of colors, finishes, and sizes offering versatility to match any design preference.
Their non-porous nature makes them resistant to mold and mildew, making maintenance hassle-free. They also reflect light, adding brightness to the bathroom space, creating a clean and fresh ambiance.
Moreover, glass tiles are durable and easy to clean due to their smooth surface. With their ability to create visual interest through iridescence or transparency, they can truly elevate the overall look of your shower area.
Quartz
Quartz, a popular choice for shower walls and floors, is low-maintenance and highly durable. The non-porous surface makes it resistant to mold and mildew, making it ideal for busy family bathrooms.
With its stylish appearance, quartz comes in various colors and can mimic the look of natural stone without the need for sealing or special maintenance. Its moisture-resistant properties make it an excellent option for long-term use in your bathroom.
When choosing quartz tiles for your shower walls and floors, consider the installation process as they can be heavy. Also, due to their weight, professional installation is often necessary.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Tile for Shower Walls and Floors
- Budget
When choosing shower wall and floor tiles, your budget plays a crucial role in determining the type of tile you can consider. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are affordable options that offer durability and versatility, while natural stone tiles like travertine or slate provide a luxurious yet more expensive choice.
Glass and quartz tiles also add sophistication but come with a higher price tag. Consider your budget carefully to find the best tile that balances cost-effectiveness with the desired aesthetic for your bathroom.
Ensure to explore various options such as porcelain, ceramic, natural stone, glass, and quartz within your budget range; remember that each offers unique benefits based on different costs.
- Tile Size, Shape, and Texture
Consider the size and shape of tiles for your shower. Large tiles make a small bathroom appear larger, while smaller mosaic tiles add texture and can be less slippery. Choose hexagonal or herringbone patterns to add visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Opt for smooth, non-porous tile to prevent water absorption and mold growth. Textured tiles are great for adding grip on shower floors but may require more maintenance.
Select a color that complements your bathroom’s palette and consider using contrasting grout to emphasize the tile design.
- Layout Pattern
Choose a layout pattern that complements the size and shape of your bathroom tiles. Opt for classic grid patterns for a timeless look, or go for herringbone or basket weave layouts to add an elegant touch.
Consider using larger tiles to create an illusion of spaciousness, while smaller tiles can bring intricate details to your shower walls and floors. Experiment with different patterns like diamond or brick bond for a unique and personalized design.
Keep in mind that the layout pattern you choose can significantly impact the overall aesthetic of your shower space.
- Spacers
Spacers are small plastic crosses that help maintain consistent and even grout lines between tiles. They are important for ensuring a professional finish in your shower wall and floor tiling.
By using spacers, you can achieve a precise and uniform look with minimal effort. Additionally, when installing larger format tiles, spacers play a crucial role in preventing the tiles from slipping out of place before the mortar sets.
When selecting tile for your shower walls and floors, ensure to consider the size of spacers needed as they will impact the final aesthetic.
Moreover, keyword “fewer grout lines”, achieving this clean look is possible by using smaller or no spacers at all, especially with rectified edge tiles which allow for tighter spacing without showing imperfections in tile alignment.
- Shower Usage and Maintenance
Maintain your shower tiles by regularly wiping them down to prevent mold and mildew buildup. Use a gentle cleaner to avoid damaging the tile’s surface, especially for natural stones like marble or granite.
Keep an eye on grout lines and promptly repair any cracks to prevent water seepage. Be mindful of using acidic cleaners as they can deteriorate certain tile types. Additionally, ensure proper ventilation in the bathroom to reduce moisture levels that could harm your tiles over time.
To keep your shower in good shape, consider resealing the tiles annually for added protection against water damage. Regularly inspect for loose or damaged tiles, addressing issues promptly to avoid further damage down the line.
- Installation
Installing shower wall and floor tiles is an essential step to achieve a dream bathroom. Start by ensuring the walls are clean, dry, and free of any debris. Apply a waterproof membrane to protect the structure from moisture.
Use thin-set mortar to adhere the tiles securely. Ensure proper spacing between each tile using spacers for a professional finish. Once installed, apply grout in small sections, pressing it into the joints with a rubber float at a 45-degree angle.
Wipe off excess grout with a damp sponge before it sets, leaving behind clean and beautiful shower walls and floors.
Top 22 Shower Tile Ideas to Inspire a Dream Bathroom
- Bold Blue Subway Tiles - Add a pop of color to your shower walls with bold blue subway tiles, creating a vibrant and refreshing atmosphere.
- Classic White Penny Tile - Achieve timeless elegance with classic white penny tiles that bring a subtle yet sophisticated touch to your shower space.
- Contemporary Geometric Patterns - Incorporate contemporary flair by opting for geometric patterned tiles, adding visual interest and modern appeal to your shower walls.
- Luxurious Marble Mosaic Tiles - Elevate the ambiance of your bathroom with luxurious marble mosaic tiles, showcasing intricate designs and a touch of opulence.
- Chic Herringbone Design - Opt for a chic herringbone pattern using square tiles for a stylish and dynamic look that adds character to your shower walls.
- Sleek Black Subway Tiles - Create a sleek and modern ambiance by using black subway tiles, offering a striking contrast and an edgy aesthetic to your shower area.
- Calming Neutral Stone Tiles - Embrace the tranquility of nature with neutral stone tiles such as travertine or slate, bringing earthy tones and texture into your shower space.
- Eye-catching Glass Tile Accents - Inject personality into your shower walls by incorporating eye-catching glass tile accents, adding a touch of sparkle and dimension.
- Rustic Wood-Look Porcelain Tiles - Infuse warmth and rustic charm into your bathroom with wood-look porcelain tiles, creating an inviting and cozy atmosphere in your shower.
- Modern Large Format Tiles - Embrace minimalism with modern large-format tiles, offering a seamless appearance and minimizing grout lines for a clean aesthetic.
- Artistic Patterned Cement Tiles - Make a statement with artistic patterned cement tiles, infusing creativity and personality into your shower design for an eclectic vibe.
- Elegant Arabesque Shapes - Opt for elegant arabesque-shaped tiles to introduce graceful curves and timeless beauty into your shower walls, evoking sophistication.
- Vibrant Moroccan-Inspired Patterns - Enliven your shower space with vibrant Moroccan-inspired patterns on ceramic or porcelain tiles, adding exotic flair and energy.
- Geometric Hexagonal Tiles – Incorporate geometric hexagonal tiles to bring a trendy and visually appealing look to your shower walls.
- Vintage-Style Checkerboard Pattern – Add retro charm with vintage-style checkerboard patterned tiles that exude nostalgia while creating an eye-catching feature in the bathroom.
- Striking Metallic Finish Tiles – Create a luxurious ambiance by using metallic finish tiles that reflect light beautifully, adding glamour and depth to the shower area.
- Breathtaking Illusion Wall Panels – Install breathtaking illusion wall panels that mimic natural elements like stone or wood, providing durability while elevating the visual aesthetics.
- Contemporary Linear Strip Mosaic – Opt for contemporary linear strip mosaic arrangements on the walls for an understated yet chic design that offers subtle visual interest.
- Luminous Mother-of-Pearl Accent – Incorporate luminous mother-of-pearl accent tiles to add iridescent elegance and delicate shimmering effects to the shower environment
- Artsy Hand-Painted Ceramic Designs – Showcase artsy hand-painted ceramic designs on the walls for unique personalized touches that enhance the overall visual appeal
- Soothing Coastal Glass Mosaics – Bring tranquil coastal vibes with soothing glass mosaic designs featuring ocean-inspired hues or marine motifs
- Sophisticated Monochromatic Schemes – Create sophisticated monochromatic schemes using different shades of one color
Top Tile Manufacturers for Your Bathroom Renovation
When selecting tiles for your shower, choosing the right manufacturer is crucial for quality and design.
- Dal-Tile Corporation - Leading the industry with a broad range of high-quality ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone tiles.
- Marazzi USA - Offers innovative, Italian-designed tiles that blend tradition with cutting-edge technology for stunning results.
- American Olean - Renowned for their durable tiles that cater to both residential and commercial spaces with elegant designs.
- Crossville Inc. - Focuses on sustainability without compromising on style, offering beautiful, eco-friendly tile solutions.
- Florida Tile - Delivers a diverse collection of ceramic and porcelain tiles, perfect for creating personalized bathroom aesthetics.
- Porcelanosa - Spanish manufacturer known for luxurious tiles that offer contemporary designs and unparalleled durability.
- Ann Sacks - Specializes in high-end, artisan tiles that transform spaces into unique, artistic environments.
- Walker Zanger - Combines traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation to produce tiles that are both beautiful and timeless.
- TileBar - Offers trendy and affordable tiles, ideal for homeowners looking for cost-effective yet stylish options.
best tile for shower walls - FAQs
Why Choose Our Expert Team
Our seasoned team of professionals has years of experience in tile installation, ensuring top-notch results. Opting for our expertise not only guarantees a flawless finish but also long-term savings. Ready for exceptional service? Contact us at (816) 200-7741 to begin.