The Fundamentals of Shower Tile Flooring

When it comes to creating a stylish and functional bathroom, the shower floor tiles you choose set the tone for the design and provide a safe, durable, and water-resistant floor. Keep reading to explore the fundamentals of tile flooring, from material options to installation and maintenance tips.

Fashionable Tile Materials

Selecting the right shower floor tile material is the first step in creating a stylish and functional shower space. With a range of available options, you can easily find a tile material that complements the look of your bathroom and meets your day-to-day needs. Dive in below for an overview of top-rated materials for shower tiles, and read our ultimate flooring guide for additional recommendations.

Ceramic

• Affordable and durable
• Wide range of design options
• Easy to clean and maintain
• Ideal for high-moisture environments
• Available in various colors, patterns, and finishes
• Allows for a personalized look that complements your bathroom’s style

Porcelain

• Porcelain tiles are dense and non-porous material
• Highly resistant to water, stains, and scratches
• Has long-lasting beauty and functionality
• Available in an array of colors, patterns, and textures
• Porcelain flooring can mimic the look of natural stone, wood, and concrete
• Matte porcelain floor tiles offer a modern, sophisticated porcelain floor option

Glass

• Modern and luxurious look
• A sleek and reflective surface
• Makes your shower appear brighter and more spacious
• Easy to clean and maintain
• Non-porous and resistant to mold and mildew growth
• Available in a variety of colors, sizes, and finishes

Marble

• Adds elegance and sophistication to any shower
• Known for its unique veining and color variations
• Creates a one-of-a-kind look
• Porous material that requires regular sealing
• Needs protection against water damage and staining
• Can use a featured tile to provide a stunning focal point
• Honed marble mosaic offers a matte finish and intricate patterns, perfect for a luxurious and slip-resistant shower floor

Terracotta, Pebble, and Mosaic

• A good option for a natural or organic style
• Terracotta tiles provide a warm, earthy feel
• Pebble tiles create a spa-like atmosphere with their smooth, rounded surfaces
• Mosaic tiles are small tiles arranged in intricate patterns
• Add visual interest and texture to your floor tiles
• Can be used alone or in combination with a larger tile design

Choosing the Right Pattern

Once you know the material for your shower floor tiles, the fun begins by selecting the arrangement of your shower tiles. From trendy hexagon polished marble mosaics to classic subway tiles or designs constructed around a featured tile, the right pattern will elevate your shower’s style. Let’s explore some popular decorative tile patterns.

Subway Tile Flooring

Subway tiles are rectangular tiles arranged in a brick-like pattern and have been a classic choice for shower floor tiles for decades. The clean, streamlined look of this timeless design works well with various bathroom styles, from traditional to contemporary. Subway tiles can be arranged using glossy or matte porcelain flooring, as well as ceramic and glass shower tiles, so you can choose the option best suited to your preferences.

For more information, explore some of our high quality porcelain tile recommendations.

Hexagon Patterns

Hexagon mosaic tiles are popular due to their unique geometric shapes and versatile design options. These six-sided mosaic tiles can be arranged in various ways, in organic styles like honeycomb or more intricate mosaics. Though hexagon matte porcelain mosaics and hexagon polished marble mosaics are top-rated material choices, hexagon mosaics can be arranged in a range of materials, sizes, and colors, making them a great custom choice.

Other Trending Patterns: Grid, Herringbone, Chevron, and Diamond

In addition to subway and hexagon mosaic shower tiles, there are several other trending patterns to consider for your floor tiles. Grid patterns arrange square or rectangular tiles in a simple, repeating pattern and offer a modern minimalist look. Herringbone and chevron patterns, which feature tiles arranged in a zigzag design, add visual interest and movement to your floor tiles. Diamond patterns, arranged square decorative tiles at a 45-degree angle, offer a classic look. Featured tiles, such as accent tiles with unique designs or textures, can be incorporated into these patterns to create a focal point and add personality to your shower tiles. Contrast small decorative tiles with larger tiles to create visual interest.

Installation and Maintenance Guide

Installation How-To

• Check that your shower floor is properly sloped towards the drain to prevent water from pooling.
• Apply a waterproof membrane to protect your subfloor from moisture damage.
• Use water-resistant grout when laying your tiles.
• Seal the grout lines thoroughly to prevent water penetration.
• Work with a professional tile installer to ensure your floor tiles are installed correctly and safely.

Maintaining Your New Floors

Regularly clean your flooring to keep your floor tiles and grout lines looking their best. Use a mild, pH-neutral cleaner and a soft-bristled brush or sponge to remove dirt, soap scum, and hard water deposits in grout lines. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers, which can damage floor tiles and grout lines. Periodically reseal your grout lines to maintain their water resistance and prevent staining. By following these maintenance tips, your floor tiles will remain beautiful and functional for years.

The Passion Behind High Performance Home’s Flooring Recommendations

At High Performance Home, we are passionate about improving housing and construction standards for everyone. We strive to provide valuable information and recommendations to help homeowners make informed decisions when remodeling or building their homes.

Whether you’re a homeowner planning a renovation, a contractor looking for the best products, or a manufacturer striving to improve your offerings, High Performance Home is here to help.

Ready to transform your shower? Visit our page to get started building your bathroom oasis.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the right shower floor tile size?

When selecting the tile size for your shower floor, consider the size of your shower and how you want the design to look. Smaller tiles, such as mosaic tiles or penny rounds, can provide better slip resistance and are ideal for creating intricate patterns. Larger tiles can make your shower appear more spacious and are easier to clean. Aim to balance functionality and style when choosing the right size for your floor tiles.

Can I install shower tile flooring myself?

While it is possible to install shower floor tiles yourself, it is recommended to work with a professional tile installer. Installing shower floor tiles requires careful planning, preparation, and execution to achieve proper water drainage and prevent leaks. A professional installer has the knowledge and tools necessary to complete the job correctly and safely.