How to install subway tile in a bathroom step 1.
How to install subway tile on shower walls.
Shower wall to shower floor.
In this shower we used 4 x12 subway tiles but the basic principles are the same for smaller tiles.
If i were to tile the back wall of a shower or bathtub surround with subway tile i would generally start with a vertical centerline.
I purchased inexpensive wood at lowe s and brought the measurement of each wall in the room and had it cut down to size right there.
Starting at the back wall i fastened the stakes through the backer board and into the studs using 2 inch drywall screws.
If you have any holes patch them and smooth out with.
Apply mortar to the wall using the v notch trowel then stick the tile on the mortar bed by.
Then off of the centerline i would draw the offset line.
You ll have to drill starter holes through all of the pieces because the boards will back out if you didn t due to the density of the hardiboard.
So for a typical 3 6 subway tile these two lines will be 3 inches apart.
This ensures that all of the tile you install above that board will be straight.
In order to make sure all of your tile is level you need to install a level piece of wood at the first row of tile.
Make sure your walls are smooth and flat.
However for 3 6 subway tile i usually draw the lines either 9 or 15 inches apart.