can you use ceramic tile in a shower? bathroom wall solutions

can you use ceramic tile in a shower?

if you’ve ever admired a bathroom replete with glossy white tile, chances are you’ve seen ceramic tile at work. while of course you should always check the specifications and material guidelines of any particular tile you’re considering for the shower, it’s safe to say that most types of ceramic tile can be used in the shower.

water resistance

let’s talk about one area where ceramic tile shines: water resistance. the glazed surface of ceramic tile, whether glossy or matte, acts as a protective layer that prevents water from penetrating the tile. this makes it especially water (and stain) resistant.

keep in mind that every ceramic tile has a water absorption rating. our subway tile, for example, has an average water absorption rate of 10% to 15%, which makes it suitable for shower walls but not floors. our penny rounds, on the other hand, are considered impervious to water, so they’re suitable for shower walls and floors.

wide range of colors, styles, and designs

many ceramic tiles are glazed, which means they’re available in a vast array of color options. and if they aren’t glazed? they may be stained or washed to create a wide variety of looks. (see our watermark collection for proof.)

ceramic tile also comes in a medley of shapes, ranging from small penny rounds to larger squares and rectangles. this makes ceramic tile a versatile option that fits into many different bathroom designs.

durability and longevity

ceramic tile is crafted from clay and then kiln-fired, making it exceptionally durable. this is especially true of porcelain tile, which is made of more refined clay and fired for longer at higher temperatures.

with proper care and maintenance (which we’ll get to in a moment) you can expect the ceramic tile in your bathroom to last for many years.

ease of maintenance

glazed ceramic tile is remarkably easy to clean, thanks to its smooth surface. this is especially true of glossy glazed ceramic tile, which naturally repels stains. generally, a gentle and ph neutral cleaner, paired with a soft brush, is sufficient for treating stains, scum, and the like.

ceramic tile tends to require less in the way of sealing as well. a glazed subway tile, for example, may very well not require sealing, making grout sealing your only concern. ultimately, a tile’s material guidelines will specify exactly what’s needed.

cost effectiveness

as far as bathroom tiles go, ceramic tile tends to run on the more cost effective side of the spectrum. that said, a tile’s cost will always vary depending on a number of factors, including how it’s made and at what scale.

is ceramic tile good for shower walls?

yes, ceramic tile (in most cases) is an excellent choice for shower walls. many options are water resistant, durable, and easy to clean too. if you’re into easy everyday maintenance, glossy ceramic tile, in particular, could be the best tile option for your shower walls.

are ceramic tiles good for other bathroom applications?

it depends. a glazed tile may not suitable for floors if 1) it is non-vitreous, meaning it absorbs some level of water, or 2) it has a glossy surface that becomes slippery when wet.

porcelain penny rounds, on the other hand, are often suitable for shower floors and walls. even with a glossy glaze, their small size offers adequate slip resistance for shower and bathroom floor installations, thanks to the additional grouting needed.

if you’re considering tile options for, say, a vanity backsplash, water exposure is less of a concern (though it’s still something to consider). always check a tile’s specifications to confirm that the tile is suitable for the project you have in mind.

best practices for using ceramic tile in showers and bathrooms

while ceramic tile functions beautifully in the bathroom, there are some best practices to keep in mind.

professional installation

whether you’re adding tile to a small bathroom or transforming a master bathroom from top to bottom, the most important thing to remember is this: your tile installation is only as good as your installer. take the time necessary to find the right contractor for your project.

not sure where to start? we always recommend reviewing a contractor’s past projects, having them create realistic mock-up boards, and asking them which types of grout are best suited for your tile. (they should be able to offer thoughtful suggestions — or be willing to defer to their grout manufacturer.)

sealing and waterproofing

the same goes for sealing and waterproofing: the right contractor should have the expertise necessary to understand what is needed (and what isn’t). even if a glazed ceramic tile doesn’t have visible crazing, for example, it will likely need to be sealed before grouting to keep the tile from absorbing the dye in the grout.

ultimately, your contractor — and your tile’s material guidelines — will offer the best guidelines in terms of sealing and waterproofing the tile.

maintenance and cleaning tips

your tile’s material guidelines should also offer helpful guidance when it comes to everyday cleaning and long-term maintenance. when in doubt: a mild, ph neutral soap is ideal for most cleaning, and grout lines can be cleaned with warm water and a soft bristle brush. always test a new cleaner before using it on your tile.