How to Retile a Shower Surround

Remove old tiles and adhesive, prepare the wall surface, install new tiles with proper adhesive and spacers, then apply grout and sealant for a watertight finish.

1. Strip and Secure the Base. Start by removing all old tiles using a hammer and chisel or oscillating multi-tool. Scrape off remaining adhesive with a putty knife until you reach bare drywall or cement board. Clean the surface thoroughly with a damp cloth and check for any soft spots or damage that need repair. If the wall behind is just drywall, consider installing cement backer board for better moisture protection.
2. Map Before You Stick. Measure the shower walls and mark the center point of each wall. Use a level to draw horizontal and vertical reference lines. Do a dry layout by placing tiles along these lines to see how they'll fit. Adjust your starting point so you don't end up with tiny slivers of tile in corners. Mark where you'll need to cut tiles around fixtures like shower valves or soap dishes.
3. Lock In the First Row. Mix your tile adhesive according to package directions. Using a notched trowel, spread adhesive on a small section of wall, starting from your reference line. Hold the trowel at a 45-degree angle to create even ridges. Press the first tile firmly into place with a slight twisting motion. Use tile spacers to maintain consistent gaps between tiles.
4. Build Upward, Stay Straight. Work in small sections, applying adhesive for only 3-4 tiles at a time to prevent it from drying out. Install tiles from bottom to top, checking frequently with a level to ensure rows stay straight. Remove excess adhesive from joints as you go using a damp sponge. For tiles that need cutting, measure carefully and use a wet tile saw for clean cuts.
5. Finish Edges, Clear Gaps. Measure and cut tiles for edges, corners, and around plumbing fixtures. Test-fit each cut tile before applying adhesive. Install these pieces, ensuring they align properly with full tiles. Once all tiles are set and the adhesive has cured for 24 hours, carefully remove all tile spacers using needle-nose pliers or a spacer removal tool.
6. Seal and Protect Forever. Mix grout according to package directions until it reaches a peanut butter consistency. Using a rubber float held at a 45-degree angle, spread grout diagonally across tiles, pressing firmly to fill all joints completely. Clean excess grout from tile surfaces with a damp sponge, rinsing frequently. Allow grout to cure for 24 hours, then apply grout sealer to protect against moisture and staining.