An unsightly bathroom with cracked shower tiles is not something anyone looks forward to using, and it can affect your home’s resale value. A shower tile installation is a good project to tackle for your own enjoyment, both now and if you decide to sell your house. Even minor cosmetic changes in a bathroom can increase home value by $1.71 for every $1 spent, according to Zillow.
However, shower tile installation is challenging, with precise requirements and detailed tile application, leveling surfaces for a smooth application, and waterproofing. After all, you don’t want to invest in tiling your shower only to pay hundreds or thousands of dollars later in water damage repairs. We recommend investing in the right tools and high-quality materials for waterproofing if you tile your shower yourself, which comes with an estimated average cost of $3,504.
Keep reading to learn more about how to tile a shower, different tile materials, estimated costs, and when to call in a professional. We’ve included detailed pricing information for the most commonly used shower tiles, labor, and materials, so you can budget appropriately for your bathroom remodel.
Key Takeaways
- The average cost to retile a standard shower is $3,504 but prices can range between $1,335 and $5,005, depending on your material and design choices.
- Tiling your shower is a do-it-yourself (DIY)-friendly project for many homeowners, assuming you have the time, tools, physical ability, and patience to learn some new skills along the way.
- Retiling your shower yourself can save you several thousand dollars if you stick with a simple design. Using a professional contractor costs $692–$2,596, with an average price of $17.30 per square foot.
Understanding Shower Tile Installation
Tiling a shower involves more than applying tiles to the shower wall. The project requires removing the original tile, smoothing the surface underneath, using a backer board, smoothing the backer with mortar or caulk, applying a waterproof membrane, and laying the new tile. You’ll also need to cut the tiles to size so they fit around the corners of your shower.
You’ll also want to consider physical labor—tile setting is physical work that requires you to get on your knees and bend over for hours. If you DIY a shower tiling project, expect to spend up to a week or more on the work, as you may have to figure things out as you go or not have time to work continuously on the project. Tiling professionals, on the other hand, have the experience to more quickly complete your shower tile installation, with an average timeline of 2–4 days.
The table below shows the scope, complexity, and average timeline of several types of shower tile installation projects.
| Installation Type | Tiling Scope | Complexity | Average DIY Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Partial wall tiling | Single wall or accent area | Low-medium | 1–2 days |
| Full shower surround | Three walls surrounding the shower | Medium | 2–4 days |
| Full enclosure with floor | Complete shower including floor | High | 3–7 days |
| Custom shower with built-in features | Niches, benches, and custom pan | Very high | 5–10+ days |
What Factors Affect Shower Tile Installation Costs?
Several factors impact the cost of installing shower tiles, ranging from design complexity, doing the work yourself or using a professional, removing old tile, and potentially repairing the subfloor. Take a look at how each factor determines the final cost in the sections below.
Labor Costs
Labor costs make up a large portion of professional shower tile installations because of the specialized experience, certifications, and time requirements. Most professional tile installers charge by the hour, with hourly rates averaging around $63 per hour. However you may pay more or less depending on the project, contractor’s experience, and intricacy of the inlay. Some contractors may charge by your shower’s square footage, which typically falls between $10–$15 per square foot. Since labor rates can vary depending on where you live, we recommend getting quotes from local contractors for the most accurate estimate.
If you DIY the project, you can save on total project costs. However, this job is physically demanding and requires a specialized skill set alongside the right tools to correctly fit the tiles. Any mistakes you make can cost you in the long run since you run the risk of redoing the project. Carefully weigh how much you’ll save by skipping out on professional labor if you don’t already have the necessary tools, experience, and time for the project.
Another key factor to consider is whether the project requires working with a plumber. Often, a shower tile installation requires the services of both a plumber and a tile setter. But, if you’re not moving or replacing the fixtures in your shower, you might not need a plumber. The plumber makes sure pipes and fixtures work properly, don’t leak, and meet current building codes. Note that most reputable plumbers charge several hundred dollars for a typical job, so factor this into your budget if you need one.
Materials and Fixtures
If you’re confident in tackling a shower tile installation yourself, the average cost of materials is between $643 and $2,410. You’ll also need several tools, including a high-quality tile cutter, tile spacers, a level, and mortar.
The tiles you choose can significantly impact project costs. Many homeowners choose ceramic tile because it’s water resistant, lasts up to 100 years, and is stain- and scratch-resistant. Ceramic is a budget-friendly option, averaging between $10 and $25 per square foot, as opposed to porcelain tile, which costs between $15 and $50 on average. However, porcelain tile is more durable, anti-slip, and less prone to water damage.
Natural stone is another high-quality option with a unique visual appeal, with costs between $25 and $60 per square foot for materials like limestone. Or, glass tiles, which cost between $35 and $60 per square foot, create dazzling shower flooring, wall accents, and backsplashes. Using higher-end materials can drastically increase the overall cost of your shower installation project.
Additional Cost Considerations
Home Depot estimates that shower tile setting materials, such as adhesives and grout, cost an average of $1.37 per square foot. If you’re purchasing new shower fixtures and hardware, plan to spend an additional $50–$500, depending on how luxurious your set is. A new shower tile drain installation usually costs several hundred dollars. You may also need to replace the shower door frame and seal, costing $30–$60 apiece.
Another easily overlooked cost for a shower tile installation project is removing old tile and repairing the subfloor. The removal and disposal of the new tile typically costs between $1 and $4 per square foot. Leveling the floor before installing the new tile is usually another $0.25–$1 per square foot. If you use a professional for installation, most reputable contractors factor this work into labor costs, but it’s best to verify rates with your quote.
Shower Tile Material Selection Guide
You can choose from many different types of bath tiles, all of which can transform your shower into a visually striking piece. Ceramic is by far the most affordable and universally available shower tile material, but learn about other available options below.
- Ceramic tiles: Popular for its minimal upkeep, you can quickly clean ceramic tiles with a damp mop or cloth. Ceramic is also resistant to dirt and stains, but can get slippery when wet, so we only recommend using these tiles for your shower’s backsplash or walls.
- Porcelain tiles: A popular choice due to its reasonable pricing, higher durability, and low maintenance, porcelain is easy to clean and stain-, scratch-, and moisture-resistant. However, these tiles cost more than other options and can easily become challenging to work with because porcelain is tough to cut through. We recommend working with a professional for installation unless you have tile-cutting experience.
- Natural stone tiles: A visually appealing choice for many homeowners due to its natural patterns and shades, stone is highly durable and can last decades when properly sealed. While natural stone generally requires minimal upkeep, some varieties, like limestone, need resealing every couple of years to maintain its appearance. Polished natural stone tiles can easily get slippery, so go with a textured finish or use a mat on your shower floor to reduce the risk of falling. We suggest working with an expert if you want natural stone tiles, as they’re heavy and challenging to install and seal properly.
- Glass tiles: If you’re interested in different tones, shapes, and stained looks for your shower, consider glass tiles. Glass can add a luminous and reflective quality to your bathroom. Glass is also durable because of its composition, easy to clean features, and mold and mildew-resitance. However, glass tiles make for a slippery shower floor, so consider a mat if you use this material. We also recommend leaving installation to the pros due to the risk of glass breaking.
Quick Tip
- Consider the slip resistance of each material when shopping for tiles. We recommend checking for tiles with a high coefficient of friction (COF) rating, which means it gets less slippery when wet.
For DIY shower tile installation, we recommend sticking with ceramic tiles, which home renovation professionals largely consider the easiest tile material to work with. Ceramic is more affordable, too, making these tiles a good choice for homeowners on a budget. Compare each tile type based on cost and other important features below.
| Material | Cost Range | Durability | Water Resistance | Maintenance | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ceramic | $10–$25 | Medium | Good | Easy | Budget-friendly projects |
| Porcelain | $15–$50 | High | Excellent | Easy | Most shower applications |
| Natural stone (limestone) | $25–$60 | Varies | Fair–Good (with proper sealing) | High | Luxury aesthetics |
| Glass | $35–$60 | Medium | Excellent | Medium | Accent walls, decorative features |
Recommended Tools and Materials Checklist
If you’re tackling a shower tile installation project yourself, we recommend collecting the following tools and materials before starting:
Essential Tools
- Tile cutter or wet saw
- Trowels (various sizes)
- Rubber mallet
- Level (2-foot and 4-foot)
- Spacers
- Grout float
- Sponges and buckets
- Measuring tape
- Safety equipment (goggles, gloves, knee pads, etc.)
Materials
- Tiles (wall and floor)
- Cement board or other backer board
- Waterproofing membrane
- Thinset mortar
- Grout
- Caulk
- Sealer (if required)
- Screws and fasteners
- Drop cloth
Step-by-Step Shower Tile Installation Process
If you’re ready to take the next step and tile your shower walls, follow these installation steps. Remember, dedicating plenty of time and being patient with yourself during the process can give you better results when tiling your shower.
Determine Your Budget
Before installing new tiles in your shower, sit down and consider your project budget. What can you realistically afford while still achieving your desired aesthetic? After determining your budget, visit a local home improvement store to look at tiles and any necessary tools you need for the job.
We also recommend consulting with a professional about any permits or inspection requirements in your state, especially if you’re changing the plumbing. Tiling is considered an aesthetic change rather than a structural one, so you shouldn’t need permits for those updates alone. In most cases, you only need a permit or inspection if you’re changing the plumbing, moving walls, or working on any electrical components in the bathroom. Doing this type of work without the proper permits can cause issues with selling your home if you want to move down the road.
Preparation and Planning
After selecting your tile material and style, measure the length and width of the area you plan on tiling in your shower. Calculate the number of tiles you’ll need by the intended area’s square footage and purchase that amount from your local home improvement store or order online. We recommend ordering some extras in case any tiles break during installation.
Create a tile layout plan based on the style you prefer. The industry’s 1/3 tile offset layout is one of the simplest and visually appealing options for DIYers. You can create a 1/3 tile layout by offsetting the edge of every third tile by about 50%, which can help hide imperfections. Try this with square, rectangular, or subway tiles for best results.
Before tiling day, purchase or rent the tools and safety equipment you need so you’re not rushing to the store to pick up anything you’ve forgotten after starting the project. Some companies sell tiling kits for DIYers that come with most of the necessary materials.
Surface Preparation
Plan on spending 1–2 days carefully removing your shower’s old tiles. Take a hammer and chisel and work across the shower tile, removing them as you go. A reciprocating saw is a good tool for cutting screws, if needed. You may damage your shower’s backer board, which sits behind the tiles, during this process, which you would then need to replace.
During the tile removal process, wear a respirator with a high dust rating and cover the floor with a drop cloth. If your bathroom has a window, crack it open to improve ventilation. Place moving blankets down to protect your floors and tub from damage from the weight of the old tiles.
After you’ve removed the old shower tile completely, inspect the surface. If you find drywall, remove and replace it with a cement backer board, which protects your shower walls from mold and moisture. Drywall above the showerhead is fine, but we don’t recommend using it in place of a cement backer board, as it doesn’t offer the same protection against moisture.
Double-check that your current shower studs are in good condition and there isn’t mold anywhere. If you come across mold, stop what you’re doing and call a professional to remove it. Mold is a serious health risk that can cause upper respiratory symptoms like coughing and wheezing.
Once you’ve checked the surface you wish to tile and cleared any dust or debris, run a damp sponge over it so it’s not completely dry. Then, apply your waterproof barrier according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Remember, this waterproof membrane only needs to go in wet shower areas. Next, apply a thin-set mortar over the entire shower wall surface to eliminate air pockets and smooth the surface. Your mortar should have a creamy, peanut-butter-like consistency as you apply it in small sections.
Tile Installation
After applying the thin-set mortar and allowing it to dry, measure your shower again and start to place and push your new shower tiles firmly into place. Use tile nippers or a hole saw to cut any curves you come across. If you have exposed edges, a bullnose tile piece can solve this, or you can cover the edges with trimmed tile. Place spaces between the shower tiles to create consistent gaps, which you’ll fill with grout later.
As you go, regularly check that the tile surface is level. If applying tile to the shower floor, leave a one-fourth of an inch expansion gap at the bottom.
Once your mortar has dried for 24 hours, remove the tile spaces so you can prep the shower wall for grout. Follow the tile’s manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended type of grout. Mix small batches to ensure the grout doesn’t dry out while you work. Apply the grout with a rubber grout float and work it across the tiles using a diagonal motion.
If you used glass or marble tile, we suggest applying unsanded grout to prevent scratching the tile surfaces.
Finishing Touches
Give the grout at least 10 minutes to dry or as long as the manufacturer instructs. Then, use a wet sponge to wipe away excess grout while avoiding removing grout from the joints. Once the grout is completely dry, use a grout haze remover to clean the shower tile faces.
Apply a grout sealant once the grout has had a few days to dry. Then, we recommend applying a silicone sealant to all the shower edges, corners, and joints.
Lastly, replace any fixtures, such as faucets or bathroom lighting.
Using Professional vs. DIY Installation
Shower tile installation is a manageable project for some homeowners, but it requires many tools, work like cutting tile, long hours, and physical labor. If you’re up for the challenge, you can save money by DIYing your shower tile project. Keep in mind that skipping key shower tile installation steps, such as preparing the shower surface and waterproofing, can lead to expensive water damage issues later, such as mold and mildew. If you’re choosing a complex tile layout or have concerns about waterproofing, we recommend hiring a professional. A contractor also saves you from doing detailed tile cutting work, which isn’t for everyone and can pose safety risks if you’re not experienced.
Another consideration is the tools needed. Doing a shower tile installation yourself requires many tools, including a tile cutter, waterproofing membrane, mortar, grout, and a backing board. If you don’t already have the necessary tools, the out-of-pocket costs can set you back hundreds of dollars.
The time commitment is another challenge for DIYers when tiling a shower. Professionals can usually finish a tiling project in 2–4 days, depending on the project’s complexity and the size of your shower. However, DIYing this project—especially if you’re tackling it solo—can easily take up to a week or longer.
Compare the factors involved with tiling a shower yourself versus hiring a professional using the table below.
| Factor | Professional Installation | DIY Installation |
|---|---|---|
| Average labor cost | $692–$2,596 | $0 |
| Timeline | 2–4 days | 3–7+ days |
| Quality assurance | Guaranteed workmanship | Varies based on skill level |
| Warranty | Labor and materials (typically) | Materials only |
| Complexity handling | Experienced with potential challenges | May struggle with complex layouts |
| Tool requirements | Professional-grade equipment | Requires buying or renting tools |
| Best for | Waterproofing critical areas and navigating complex designs | Simple layouts and experienced DIYers |
Quick Tip
- While an ambitious homeowner with DIY experience can tackle a straightforward shower tiling project, prepare to buy tools and invest upwards of a week into this project. This typically isn’t a weekend project, especially if you’re tackling the whole shower. Take extra care with waterproofing measures so you’re not left with water damage that needs fixing later.
Cost-Saving Strategies When Installing Shower Tiles
Home renovation projects can quickly add up, whether you go the DIY route or hire professional contractors. Still, you can save money and achieve your dream shower with several cost-saving strategies.
- Carefully choose your tile material: One of the biggest money savers is the tile material you choose, with budget-friendly tiles helping you save. Ceramic is among the cheapest options and is a versatile and durable material.
- Mix-and-match materials: You can mix and match high-end and low-end tiles in a striking design pattern as a way to save money on materials.
- Look for discounts: We always advise shopping around for discounts when buying project materials. Look for home improvement retailers or warehouses offering discounts, clearance items, or special offers.
- Use a partial DIY approach: Perhaps you’re uncomfortable with tiling or waterproofing your shower yourself, but you still want to save on the overall project. In this case, consider doing your own tile removal. While this is a physical job, it’s much simpler than the tile installation and can save you on some labor costs.
- Rent tools: Consider renting tools for any steps you’re doing yourself. It may only cost a couple hundred dollars to rent a couple of tools for a day or two compared to buying new ones outright.
- Don’t move your plumbing: Another way to save money is by leaving your shower’s plumbing where it is, which keeps you from having to hire a plumber.
- Compare contractor quotes: Gather at least three quotes if you’re working with a professional contractor at any stage of your project. This can give you an idea of market rates in your area, and help you compare options.
Shower Tile Installation Examples with Real Costs
To help you estimate costs, we came up with a few examples of how different levels of shower tile installation projects can cost you more or less based on your budget.
Basic Shower Tile Installation ($10–$25 per Square Foot)
A basic shower tile installation, such as a straight lay pattern, is easier to install and much less time-consuming than a complex pattern. For example, labor for a subway tile design typically costs $7–$15 per square foot, compared to $14.50–$16.50 for a herringbone or diagonal design. Basic shower wall tile installations also use more budget-friendly materials, like ceramic, which typically costs between $10 and $25 per square foot. If you hire a professional tiler, expect to pay around $17.30 per square foot in addition to material costs, depending on where you live and the contractor’s experience level.
Mid-Range Shower Tile Installation ($15–$60 per Square Foot)
A mid-range shower tile installation often uses higher-quality designs or materials, like porcelain or a lower-end natural stone. Porcelain costs $15–$50 per square foot, and natural stones like limestone can run $25–$60. We recommend sticking with a professional for installation for these projects, unless you have experience tiling at this level. Doing a mid-range shower renovation can lead to issues with waterproofing if done incorrectly, since certain materials require proper sealing to prevent leaks.
Premium or Custom Shower Tile Installation ($35–60+ per square foot)
A premium shower tile installation involves working with pricier materials, such as high-end natural stone or glass. A premium project often includes more expensive materials or complex designs, such as herringbone patterns, which also increases labor costs. Mosaics are a popular choice for custom shower installations as they create a striking visual in any bathroom. However, mosaics require many days of labor since they’re made of small pieces, increasing the time needed to tile your shower.
If you plan to use a custom design or premium materials, such as mosaics or glass, expect to pay at least $35 per square foot for materials alone. Labor costs will vary depending on your region, but you’ll likely pay a premium rate closer to $33 per square foot based on the project’s complexity.
FAQs About Shower Tile Installation Costs
What do you put down before tiling a shower?
Before tiling a shower, install a cement backer board around the entire surround and double-check that the pieces are flush against the whole wall. Add mortar over the board, taking care to make it as smooth as possible while filling in gaps. Lastly, use a waterproofing product, such as Redgard. These materials usually apply like paint and need to sit before you can start tiling. After drying, take a few minutes to fill in small gaps with another application of mortar or silicone caulk, per the manufacturer’s instructions.
What is the average cost to install a tile shower?
The average cost to install a tile shower is typically between $1,335–$5,005. If you DIY the project, you can save around $692–$2,596 on labor, depending on how long the job takes.
What is the 1/3 rule for tile?
The 1/3 rule for tile is a DIY-friendly design pattern that creates appealing texture and dimension in a room. The edge of every third tile is offset by about 50%, hiding any installation imperfections. Square, subway, or rectangular tiles work best for this design.
Can you tile directly on shower walls?
You shouldn’t apply tile directly to the shower walls. Moisture management is essential when renovating a bathroom because water can easily seep through the tiling. Water leaks can cause mold, air quality issues, mildew, and structural damage. Instead, take the time to install a cement backer board, apply mortar or silicone caulk, and use a waterproofing membrane product.
How long does a shower tile installation take?
Depending on the size of your shower, tile installation can take anywhere from 1–7 days. While a professional can tile a shower in 2–4 days, DIYers should add on several days in case they can’t work continuously.
How We Determined Shower Tile Installation Pricing
To provide the most accurate and current pricing for shower tile installations, we collected costs based on contractor estimates and market prices from Homewyse, Angi, and The Home Depot. Our research included analyzing material and labor costs to ensure a comprehensive view of project pricing locally and nationally.
Prices shared in this guide represent shower tilling estimates based on our research at the time of publication. Actual costs may vary depending on factors such as your location, shower specifics, material quality, and project scope.
