Vintage Bathroom Tile - Ceramic bathroom tiles are a great and inexpensive way to add zip to you bath. And the project is well within the ability of the average handyman. Good surface prep is the key. Make sure the substrate is clean and free of high and low spots. Take your time on this part of the project and your results will have a professional look.


Begin by drawing horizontal layout lines first. Be sure they are accurate and easy to read. If too faint, you will have difficulty seeing them during tile installation. You need to determine if your shower pan or tub are level before proceeding.

Level Tub or Shower Pan - If the tub is level to within 1/8″, measure and mark your horizontal line from the high point of the tub. The 1/8″ difference (if there is a difference) can be hidden with grout. Measure up from the lip of the tub, the width of a tile plus 1/8″. Make a line using a level and a straight edge, along the back wall and the two end walls.

Out of Level Tub or Shower Pan - If the tub is not level to 1/8″, mark your horizontal line from the low point. Determine a level line just like for a level tub and run a batten along the bottom of the line. It is usually best to nail a straight wooden batten so that the top of the batten is set to the horizontal line. This provides a level surface for the tile. After all the tile is laid, remove the batten and install the bottom row. You will have to cut the bottom row of tiles to fit along the uneven top edge of the tub or pan.