Shower Tile

Fully vitrified porcelain tile with a water absorption rate of 0.5% or less is the gold standard for shower tile. It is completely impervious to moisture, resistant to mold and mildew, and available in every size, finish, and style. For shower floors, choose a smaller format tile (mosaic or 4×4 and below) with a slip resistance rating of R10 or higher - more grout joints provide better grip on a wet surface. For shower walls, larger format porcelain (12×24 and up) creates a seamless, low-maintenance look.

Yes - waterproofing is the most critical step in any shower tile installation. Never tile directly onto standard drywall in a shower. Use a cement board substrate, a foam shower board, or a liquid-applied waterproofing membrane on the walls and floor before any tile goes in. Waterproofing must extend at least 6 inches beyond the shower perimeter. All corners and seams must be reinforced with waterproofing tape. Skipping or cutting corners on waterproofing is the most common cause of shower leaks and tile failures

For shower tile joints, epoxy grout is the most durable and mold-resistant option - it is non-porous, stain-resistant, and does not require sealing. Standard cement-based grout is also commonly used and works well when properly sealed. Use unsanded grout for joints 1/8" or smaller and sanded grout for wider joints. All internal corners in the shower (where walls meet each other and where walls meet the floor) should be filled with color-matched silicone caulk rather than grout, as grout will crack with the slight movement that naturally occurs in these areas.

Smaller tiles are better for shower floors for two reasons: they provide more grout joints which improve slip resistance, and they can conform more easily to the slight slope required for water drainage. The most popular shower floor tile sizes are 1×1 mosaic, 2×2 mosaic, and 4×4 square. Penny round and hexagon mosaics are also popular choices. Avoid large format tiles on shower floors - they are difficult to slope correctly and offer little grip when wet.

You can use the same tile style across walls and floor for a cohesive look, but the floor tile must be specifically rated for floor use with adequate slip resistance. Many designers use a coordinating but different tile on the shower floor - for example, a 12×24 porcelain on the walls with a matching 2×2 mosaic on the floor. This approach is both practical (better grip on the floor) and visually intentional. Check each product's specifications to confirm whether it is rated for floor, wall, or both.