Tile Over Cultured Marble Shower: My Personal Experience

As a homeowner, I always try to keep my house updated and fresh. Recently, I decided to renovate my bathroom and give it a modern look. One of the main things that I wanted to change was my shower area. It had a cultured marble shower base that was outdated and stained. After researching various options, I decided to tile over the cultured marble shower base. Here is my experience and everything you need to know about tiling over a cultured marble shower.

What is Cultured Marble Shower?

Cultured marble shower is a blend of marble dust, resin, and pigments that create a surface that is durable, water-resistant, and easy to clean. It is a popular choice for shower bases because it is affordable and comes in a variety of colors and patterns.

Why Tile Over Cultured Marble Shower?

There are several reasons why someone would want to tile over a cultured marble shower. The most common reason is to update the look of the bathroom. Tiling over the cultured marble can give the shower a modern and fresh appearance. Another reason is to cover up any stains or cracks on the surface. Lastly, tiling over the cultured marble can increase the durability and life of the shower.

Step-by-Step Guide for Tiling Over Cultured Marble Shower

Here are the steps that I followed to tile over my cultured marble shower:

Clean the surface of the cultured marble shower base with a degreaser and a scrub brush. Make sure it is free of any dirt, grime, or soap scum.
Measure the area of the shower base and purchase enough tiles to cover the surface. Make sure to choose tiles that are suitable for wet areas.
Prepare the thinset mortar according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Use a trowel to spread the thinset mortar over the surface of the cultured marble shower base.
Place the tiles on top of the thinset mortar, starting from the center of the shower base and working your way outwards.
Use spacers to ensure that the tiles are evenly spaced.
Allow the thinset mortar to dry completely before removing the spacers and grouting the tiles.
Apply the grout between the tiles using a grout float and wipe away any excess grout with a damp sponge.
Allow the grout to dry completely before using the shower.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Tiling Over Cultured Marble Shower

Here are some tips and ideas that you can use when tiling over a cultured marble shower:

Choose tiles that are suitable for wet areas and have a non-slip surface.
Use a waterproofing membrane to ensure that the tiles are protected from water damage.
Consider adding a decorative border or mosaic pattern to the shower walls.
Use contrasting grout colors to make the tiles stand out.
Install a shower niche to provide extra storage space for shampoo and soap.
Use accent tiles to create a focal point in the shower area.
Choose large format tiles to create a seamless and modern look.
Install a frameless glass shower door to showcase the new tiles.
Consider adding a bench or seating area in the shower.
Install LED lighting to create a spa-like atmosphere.

Pros and Cons of Tiling Over Cultured Marble Shower

Like any renovation project, tiling over a cultured marble shower has its pros and cons:

Pros:

Gives the shower a modern and fresh look
Covers up any stains or cracks on the surface
Increases the durability and life of the shower
Allows for customization with different tile options and designs

Cons:

Can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive project
May require the assistance of a professional if you are not experienced with tiling
Can be costly if you choose high-end tiles or hire a professional
May require additional waterproofing measures to prevent water damage

My Personal Review and Suggestion on Tiling Over Cultured Marble Shower

Overall, I am very happy with my decision to tile over my cultured marble shower. It gave my bathroom a much-needed update and made the shower area look modern and fresh. The process was a bit time-consuming, but it was worth it in the end. I would suggest that anyone who is considering tiling over their cultured marble shower should do their research, choose the right tiles, and follow the proper installation techniques. If you are not experienced with tiling, it may be best to hire a professional to ensure that the job is done correctly.

FAQs

Q: Can you tile over any type of cultured marble shower?

A: Yes, you can tile over any type of cultured marble shower as long as the surface is clean and free of any cracks or damage.

Q: Do I need to use a waterproofing membrane when tiling over a cultured marble shower?

A: Yes, it is recommended to use a waterproofing membrane to ensure that the tiles are protected from water damage.

Q: How long does it take to tile over a cultured marble shower?

A: The time it takes to tile over a cultured marble shower depends on the size of the shower and the complexity of the design. It can take anywhere from a few days to a week to complete the project.