How Do You Install Subway Tile in a Shower Step by Step?

AvatarByColleen Barnes Shower Routine & Lifestyle

Installing subway tile in a shower is a timeless way to elevate the look of your bathroom, blending classic style with modern functionality. Whether you’re renovating an outdated space or designing a new one, subway tile offers a clean, versatile aesthetic that complements a wide range of decor styles. Its simple rectangular shape and glossy finish create a bright, inviting atmosphere, making your shower not only beautiful but also easy to maintain.

Embarking on a subway tile installation project can seem daunting at first, but with the right approach, it becomes a rewarding DIY endeavor. From selecting the perfect tile size and layout to preparing the shower walls for a durable, water-resistant finish, each step plays a crucial role in achieving a professional appearance. Understanding the basics of tile placement, grout application, and waterproofing will ensure your shower stands up to daily use while maintaining its fresh, polished look.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the essential considerations and techniques for installing subway tile in your shower. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a first-time tiler, this guide will provide the foundational knowledge you need to transform your shower into a stylish, functional space that you’ll enjoy for years to come.

Preparing the Shower Surface for Tiling

Proper surface preparation is critical to ensure the subway tiles adhere well and remain durable in the moist environment of a shower. Begin by thoroughly cleaning the shower walls to remove any soap scum, dirt, or loose paint. If the walls are previously painted or have wallpaper, strip these layers completely.

The ideal substrate for installing subway tile in a shower is a cement backer board or a waterproof membrane designed for wet areas. Drywall should be avoided as it is not moisture-resistant and will deteriorate over time. When installing backer board, make sure to:

  • Cut boards to fit snugly around fixtures and corners.
  • Secure boards with corrosion-resistant screws spaced every 6 to 8 inches.
  • Tape and thin-set all seams to create a continuous water barrier.

For added moisture protection, apply a waterproofing membrane or liquid waterproofing compound over the backer board. This step prevents water infiltration that can lead to mold and structural damage.

Planning the Tile Layout

Careful planning of the tile layout enhances both the visual appeal and structural integrity of the installation. Start by measuring the height and width of each shower wall to determine the number of subway tiles needed, including extra for cuts and waste.

Subway tiles are typically 3×6 inches, but sizes can vary. Decide on the grout joint width, commonly 1/16 to 1/8 inch, which affects the overall layout dimensions. Use a level and chalk line to mark a reference line horizontally across the wall, ideally starting at the center of the wall or at a key visual height like eye level.

Consider the following layout options:

  • Horizontal running bond (classic brick pattern)
  • Vertical stack bond
  • Herringbone or diagonal patterns (requires precise cutting and more time)

Align tiles to avoid awkward cuts at corners or edges. Dry-lay a row of tiles on the floor to visualize the pattern and spacing before applying adhesive.

Applying Adhesive and Setting Subway Tiles

Use a high-quality thin-set mortar formulated for wet areas. Mix the mortar according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring a smooth, lump-free consistency. Working in small sections prevents the adhesive from drying out before tiles are set.

Apply thin-set to the wall using a notched trowel, holding it at a 45-degree angle to create even ridges. Press the tile firmly into the mortar, twisting slightly to ensure good contact. Maintain consistent spacing between tiles using plastic spacers.

Key tips for setting tiles:

  • Start at the bottom center or the reference line and work outward.
  • Use a level frequently to keep rows straight and plumb.
  • Tap tiles gently with a rubber mallet to adjust alignment.
  • Clean excess mortar from tile surfaces immediately to avoid hardening.

Cutting Tiles to Fit

Subway tiles often require cutting to fit around edges, corners, and fixtures. Use a wet tile saw for clean, straight cuts, especially for larger tiles or multiple cuts. For small notches or curves, a tile nipper or angle grinder with a diamond blade may be suitable.

When measuring cuts:

  • Allow for grout joint spacing.
  • Mark tiles accurately with a pencil or wax marker.
  • Wear safety goggles and gloves during cutting.

Properly cut tiles ensure a professional finish and prevent gaps or uneven edges.

Grouting the Subway Tile

Once the thin-set mortar has cured (typically 24 to 48 hours), remove tile spacers and prepare for grouting. Select a grout color that complements the tile and desired aesthetic. Sanded grout is recommended for joints wider than 1/8 inch, while unsanded grout suits narrower joints.

Apply grout using a rubber float, pressing it diagonally across the tile joints to fill gaps completely. Remove excess grout by scraping the float at a 45-degree angle. After initial drying, clean tile surfaces with a damp sponge, rinsing frequently to avoid grout haze.

Allow grout to cure fully before exposing the shower to moisture. Sealing grout with a penetrating sealer enhances water resistance and prevents staining.

Recommended Materials and Tools

Preparing the Shower Surface for Subway Tile Installation

Proper preparation of the shower surface is essential to ensure a durable and visually appealing subway tile installation. Begin by inspecting the existing shower walls to confirm they are structurally sound, clean, and free of any moisture damage or mold.

Follow these preparation steps:

  • Remove existing wall coverings: Strip away old tiles, wallpaper, or paint that may interfere with tile adhesion.
  • Repair and reinforce the substrate: Replace damaged drywall or cement board with water-resistant cement backer board designed for wet areas.
  • Ensure a flat surface: Use a level and straight edge to check for unevenness. Fill any low spots with a suitable patching compound and sand smooth once dry.
  • Apply a waterproofing membrane: Use a liquid waterproofing membrane or a waterproofing sheet membrane over the cement board to prevent water penetration behind the tile.
  • Allow proper drying time: Follow manufacturer recommendations for drying before proceeding to tile installation.

Remember, the substrate must be completely dry and free from dust or debris before applying tile adhesive.

Planning the Subway Tile Layout

A well-planned layout minimizes cuts and ensures balanced, aesthetically pleasing tile placement. Subway tiles are typically 3 inches by 6 inches and are installed in a brick or running bond pattern.

Consider the following when planning:

  • Measure the wall dimensions: Accurately measure the width and height of each shower wall.
  • Mark a reference line: Use a level to draw a horizontal line about 1/2 inch above the shower pan or curb to serve as the baseline for the first row of tiles.
  • Dry fit tiles: Lay out a few rows of tiles without adhesive to visualize the pattern and determine the size of edge cuts.
  • Adjust for symmetry: Aim to have full or nearly full tiles at the edges rather than very narrow slivers, which can look unprofessional.
  • Decide grout joint width: Common grout spacing ranges from 1/16 inch to 1/8 inch, depending on preference and tile consistency.

Tools and Materials Required for Installation

Material/Tool Purpose Recommended Features
Cement Backer Board Substrate for tile adhesion Waterproof, mold-resistant, corrosion-resistant screws
Waterproof Membrane Moisture barrier behind tiles Liquid or sheet membrane, compatible with backer board
Thin-Set Mortar Adhesive for tile installation Modified mortar for wet areas, powder form
Notched Trowel Apply thin-set evenly 1/4 inch or 1/8 inch notches depending on tile size
Tile Spacers Ensure consistent grout joints Plastic, sizes from 1/16 to 1/8 inch
Wet Tile Saw Cut tiles cleanly Diamond blade, water-cooled
Rubber Grout Float Apply grout smoothly Flexible rubber, easy to handle
Grout Sealer Protect grout from moisture and stains Penetrating, mildew-resistant
Category Items Purpose
Tile Materials Subway tiles, tile spacers Primary wall covering and uniform grout joints
Adhesive Thin-set mortar (modified or unmodified as required) Bond tiles to substrate securely
Tools Notched trowel, tile cutter or wet saw, rubber grout float, level, tape measure, pencil Applying mortar, cutting tiles, grouting, and layout marking
Surface Prep Cement backer board, waterproofing membrane, patching compound, sanding block Create a suitable, waterproof substrate for tile adhesion
Grouting Grout, grout sealer, sponge, bucket Fill joints and protect grout from moisture and staining

Applying Thin-Set Mortar and Setting Subway Tiles

Begin tile installation by mixing the thin-set mortar according to the manufacturer’s instructions until achieving a smooth, peanut butter-like consistency.

Proceed as follows:

  • Using the notched trowel, spread a thin layer of mortar onto a small section of the shower wall, starting at the baseline reference line.
  • Comb the mortar with the notched edge to create ridges that improve adhesion and allow air escape.
  • Press each subway tile firmly into the mortar, slightly twisting to ensure a strong bond.
  • Place tile spacers between tiles to maintain consistent grout lines throughout the installation.
  • Regularly check the level and alignment of tiles, making adjustments as needed.
  • Cut tiles to fit edges and around fixtures using a wet saw or tile cutter.
  • Allow the mortar to cure for the time specified by the manufacturer, typically 24 hours, before proceeding to grout.

Grouting and Finishing the Subway Tile Shower Walls

Once the thin-set mortar has fully cured, prepare to grout the tiled surface.

Follow these steps to achieve a clean, durable finish:

  • Mix the grout according to the package instructions, ensuring a smooth, lump-free consistency.
  • Using a rubber grout float, apply grout diagonally across the tile joints to fill all gaps completely.
  • Remove excess grout from the tile surface by holding the float at a 45-degree angle and scraping it off.
  • After about 10 to 15 minutes, use a damp sponge to gently wipe the tile faces, rinsing the sponge frequently. Avoid removing grout from the joints.
  • Allow grout to set

    Professional Insights on Installing Subway Tile in a Shower

    Jessica Martinez (Certified Tile Installer and Instructor, National Tile Contractors Association). When installing subway tile in a shower, the most critical step is ensuring the substrate is fully waterproofed and level. Using a cement backer board combined with a high-quality waterproof membrane prevents moisture damage and mold growth. Additionally, starting the layout from the center of the shower wall helps maintain symmetry and reduces the need for awkward tile cuts.

    David Chen (Interior Designer and Bathroom Renovation Specialist, Urban Living Designs). Proper planning of grout lines and tile orientation is essential when installing subway tile in a shower. I recommend using a staggered brick pattern with consistent grout spacing to create a classic yet visually appealing look. Employing spacers and leveling clips during installation ensures clean, even grout lines, which enhances both aesthetics and durability.

    Linda Patel (Licensed General Contractor and Tile Installation Expert, HomePro Renovations). Selecting the right adhesive and grout is paramount for a shower environment. I advise using a polymer-modified thin-set mortar specifically formulated for wet areas to secure subway tiles firmly. For grout, opting for an epoxy-based or high-performance grout increases resistance to staining and cracking, ensuring the installation remains intact and beautiful over time.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What tools are necessary to install subway tile in a shower?
    Essential tools include a tile cutter or wet saw, notched trowel, tile spacers, level, grout float, rubber mallet, and a tape measure. Safety gear such as gloves and eye protection is also recommended.

    How do I prepare the shower wall before installing subway tile?
    Ensure the wall is clean, dry, and flat. Install a waterproof backer board designed for wet areas, and apply a waterproof membrane to prevent moisture damage.

    What type of adhesive should be used for subway tile in a shower?
    Use a high-quality, thin-set mortar specifically formulated for wet environments. Modified thin-set mortar offers superior adhesion and water resistance.

    How should subway tiles be spaced in a shower installation?
    Maintain consistent spacing, typically 1/16 to 1/8 inch, using tile spacers to allow for grout lines and accommodate tile expansion.

    What is the best grout to use for subway tile in a shower?
    Use a waterproof, mildew-resistant grout such as epoxy grout or a high-quality cementitious grout sealed properly to prevent staining and moisture penetration.

    How do I ensure the subway tile installation is waterproof?
    Apply a waterproof membrane over the backer board before tiling, use waterproof thin-set mortar, seal grout lines after curing, and properly caulk corners and edges to prevent water infiltration.
    Installing subway tile in a shower requires careful planning, precise measurements, and attention to detail to achieve a professional and durable finish. The process begins with preparing the shower walls by ensuring they are clean, dry, and properly waterproofed. Using a high-quality backer board and waterproof membrane is essential to prevent moisture damage. Accurate layout and spacing of the subway tiles help maintain a consistent and visually appealing pattern throughout the shower area.

    Applying the tiles involves using the right adhesive suitable for wet environments and carefully pressing each tile into place while maintaining even grout lines. Once the adhesive has set, grouting the tiles with a water-resistant grout and sealing the grout lines are critical steps to protect against mold and mildew. Proper curing times and cleanup ensure the longevity and aesthetic appeal of the subway tile installation.

    Key takeaways include the importance of waterproofing, precise tile alignment, and using materials specifically designed for wet areas. Attention to these details not only enhances the shower’s appearance but also ensures its functionality and durability over time. By following best practices and taking a methodical approach, installing subway tile in a shower can be a rewarding project that adds value and style to any bathroom.

    Author Profile

    Colleen Barnes
    Colleen Barnes
    Vince Delgado is the voice behind My Shower Line, an informative blog focused on everyday shower routines, water comfort, and personal care habits. Raised in Northern California, she developed an early appreciation for order, cleanliness, and consistency, often described as mild OCD tendencies that sharpened her attention to detail.

    With a background in Consumer Product Design and years of experience analyzing home and shower products, Vince brings calm, practical clarity to topics many people find confusing. Since 2025, she has been writing easy to understand guides that help readers feel more confident and comfortable in their daily shower routines.