Can You Tile Over A Fiberglass Shower?
When I was renovating my bathroom, I was faced with the question of whether I could tile over my fiberglass shower. I had read conflicting information online and wasn’t sure what to believe. After some research and personal experience, I can confidently say that it is possible to tile over a fiberglass shower.
Step by Step Guide
Before starting the tiling process, it’s important to properly prepare the surface of the fiberglass shower. This includes cleaning the surface thoroughly, sanding it to create a rough surface for the tile adhesive to stick to, and applying a coat of primer to ensure the adhesive bonds properly.
Once the surface is prepped, you can start laying the tiles. It’s important to use a high-quality tile adhesive that is suitable for use on fiberglass. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and use the proper tools, such as a notched trowel, to apply the adhesive evenly.
After the tiles are laid, you can grout the joints. It’s best to use a mildew-resistant grout to prevent mold and mildew from forming in the shower. Once the grout is dry, you can seal it to prevent water from seeping in.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas
1. Choose the Right Tiles
When selecting tiles for a fiberglass shower, it’s important to choose ones that are suitable for wet environments and won’t absorb moisture. Porcelain or ceramic tiles are good options.
2. Prepare the Surface Properly
Properly preparing the surface of the fiberglass shower is key to ensuring the tiles adhere properly. Make sure to clean, sand, and prime the surface before starting the tiling process.
3. Use a High-Quality Tile Adhesive
Using a high-quality tile adhesive that is suitable for use on fiberglass will ensure the tiles stay in place and don’t lift or crack over time.
4. Apply Adhesive Evenly
Using a notched trowel to apply the adhesive evenly will prevent lumps and ensure the tiles are level.
5. Cut Tiles Carefully
When cutting tiles to fit around edges and corners, take your time and use a tile cutter or wet saw to ensure clean cuts.
6. Use Mildew-Resistant Grout
Preventing mold and mildew from forming in the shower is important for both aesthetic and health reasons. Using a mildew-resistant grout will help prevent this from happening.
7. Seal Grout
Sealing the grout will help prevent water from seeping in and causing damage over time.
8. Consider a Professional Installer
If you’re not comfortable with tiling or have a particularly complex shower design, it may be worth hiring a professional installer to ensure the job is done properly.
9. Be Patient
Tiling a fiberglass shower can be a time-consuming process, so be patient and take your time to ensure a quality result.
10. Enjoy Your New Shower!
Once the tiling process is complete, enjoy your new and improved fiberglass shower.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Can update the look of an old or outdated fiberglass shower
- Can be less expensive than replacing the entire shower
- Can be a DIY project for those with some tiling experience
Cons
- May not be suitable for all types of fiberglass showers
- Can be time-consuming and require careful preparation
- May require the help of a professional installer for more complex designs
My Personal Review and Suggestion
Overall, I am happy with my decision to tile over my fiberglass shower. It was a cost-effective way to update the look of my bathroom without having to replace the entire shower. The process was time-consuming and required careful preparation, but the end result was well worth it. I would suggest this option to those who are comfortable with tiling and have a fiberglass shower that is suitable for this method.
FAQs
Q: Can you tile over any type of fiberglass shower?
A: No, it’s important to make sure the fiberglass shower is suitable for tiling over. Consult a professional if you’re unsure.
Q: Do I need special tools to tile over a fiberglass shower?
A: You may need a notched trowel, tile cutter or wet saw, and a grout float, among other tools. Consult a tiling expert or refer to manufacturer instructions for more information.
Q: How long does it take to tile over a fiberglass shower?
A: The time it takes will vary depending on the size and complexity of the shower, as well as your level of experience. Plan for several days to a week to complete the job.