Introduction
Adding marble tile to your shower can immediately elevate the space and make it feel grand and luxurious. The natural veining and swirls in the marble add depth and character that man-made materials simply cannot replicate. Marble tile comes in a range of neutral colors from white to gray which allows it to complement most bathroom designs. Beyond aesthetics, marble tile is also durable, easy to clean, and resistant to moisture – making it an ideal material for showers. If you are looking to add a touch of luxury to your master bathroom, installing marble tile in the shower is a beautiful way to achieve it.
Benefits of Using Marble Tile in Showers
There are several reasons why marble tile is a popular material for showers:
Elegant and Distinctive Appearance
The natural patterning and subtle colors of marble tile lend an air of sophistication and luxury. Marble has beautiful swirls and veining that make each tile unique. This creates visual interest and gives the shower an upscale designer look. The neutral color palate also allows the marble to fit into both traditional and contemporary bathroom aesthetics.
Excellent Durability
Marble is very dense and durable, able to withstand decades of use and moisture with proper sealing and maintenance. The tiles will not chip, crack or deteriorate when subjected to water. This makes marble an ideal tile for steam showers as well as regular showers.
Good Heat Retention
Marble absorbs and retains heat well compared to other stones. This means that marble tile feels warm underfoot, an added luxury when stepping out of the shower. The smooth surface is also pleasant to stand on barefoot.
Easy Maintenance
Marble tiles require minimal maintenance besides regular sealing and cleaning. With proper care, the marble will maintain its beautiful appearance for many years before needing replacement. Re-sealing every 1-2 years will keep the marble resistant to stains and etching.
Adds Property Value
Upscale marble tile showers can increase a home’s resale value significantly. Marble is regarded as a high-end material so this bathroom feature makes the property more desirable.
Popular Types of Marble for Showers
There are many marble varieties to choose from, some more suitable for showers than others. Here are some of the best types to consider:
White Carrara
The most common marble for bathrooms. It has a bright white background with subtle gray veining that gives an elegant and timeless look. Carrara marble tile complements both traditional and modern styles.
Calacatta Marble
Rarer and more expensive than Carrara, Calacatta has distinctive veining patterns in gray and gold that create a striking visual impact. The overall look is clean and modern.
Emperador Marble
This marble gets its name from its rich brown color reminiscent of dark chocolate. Emperador marble has minimal veining resulting in a sophisticated, uniform appearance.
Crema Marfil Marble
A consistent pale beige color with faint veining. Crema Marfil has a warmer tone that works well in traditional bathrooms with lots of wood accents and lighting.
Thassos White Marble
Thassos marble is pure white with light grey swirls. The bright white background and uniform veining give a clean and contemporary look.
Shower Design Ideas with Marble Tile
Marble tile can be incorporated into showers in numerous styles:
Full Marble Surround
Covering all the walls and floor of the shower with matching marble tile makes a bold design statement. Use large format tiles on the walls and smaller mosaic tiles on the floor. Add marble border tiles for detail.
Marble Accent Wall
Use marble on one wall of the shower as an accent. The most popular accent wall is behind the shower niche to highlight it. Be sure to properly waterproof the other walls.
Marble Mosaic Shower Floor
A marble mosaic tile floor is an affordable way to get the marble look. The small tile size creates more grout lines so make sure to use a matching sanded grout color.
Marble Border Tile
Add a marble border tile inside the shower or as trim around the shower entry. This gives the illusion of marble tile without the higher cost of full coverage.
Marble Shower Bench
Incorporate marble into a built-in shower bench. This adds convenient seating while showing off the marble’s natural patterns.
Installation Tips for Marble Shower Tile
Proper installation is crucial to ensure the longevity of marble tile showers. Here are some key tips:
- Use a top quality waterproofing membrane on shower walls before tiling. This prevents moisture damage behind the marble.
- Check that the floor substrate is sturdy and waterproofed as well.
- Select a white thinset adhesive suitable for natural stone tiles. This provides a strong bond.
- Use a tile spacer to get uniform grout lines. The width should match the grout.
- Marble is prone to etching from acids so use a grout release prior to grouting. This prevents the grout from bonding directly to the marble surface.
- Seal the marble tiles before and after grouting for maximum stain protection.
- Take care not to damage the marble corners and edges when handling the tiles.
Caring for Marble Tile Showers
Marble showers require some periodic maintenance:
- Re-seal the marble every 1-2 years with a penetrating sealer made for natural stone. This prevents stains from oil, dirt and soap residue.
- Use pH neutral cleaners only. Vinegar, bleach and acidic cleaners will etch and damage the marble over time.
- Rinse the shower well after use. Letting soap, shampoos and cleaners sit on the surface can lead to etching.
- Wipe spills up promptly with a damp microfiber cloth. Stains are easier to remove when fresh.
- Consider using a squeegee after showering to prevent water spotting and mineral build up.
- Check for signs of wear around the grout lines and re-caulk if needed to prevent moisture damage.
Frequently Asked Questions about Marble Tile Showers
Is marble tile suitable for shower floors?
Yes, marble is an excellent choice for shower floors since it is slip resistant and durable when wet. Use a honed or low gloss finish for maximum traction. Small mosaic marble tiles on the floor provide more grout lines for grip.
How durable is marble in showers?
Marble is very hard and dense so it can last for decades in shower applications with proper installation and care. Sealing is important to prevent absorption of water and staining. Avoid using acidic cleaners which will etch and damage marble over time.
Does marble need to be sealed for shower use?
Sealing marble prior to installation is highly recommended to prevent staining and water absorption. Reapply sealer every 1-2 years. Using a penetrating sealer formulated for natural stone will provide the best protection.
Can you use marble tile on just one shower wall?
Yes, marble can be used to tile just one accent wall in a shower. The other walls will need to use a water-resistant material like ceramic tile and be properly waterproofed. The accent wall method minimizes cost while still giving the beauty of marble.
What kind of thinset mortar is best for marble tile?
Use a high quality thinset mortar designed for natural stone. Look for one that offers strong adhesion and some flexibility. White thinset mortar is recommended as it won’t show through the grout joints on translucent marble.
Conclusion
Installing marble tile in the shower is an investment that can greatly increase the luxury and beauty of the bathroom. The natural patterns and luster of marble add a distinguishing touch that feels opulent. Proper selection of the marble type and professional installation are key to achieving the best results. With care and maintenance, marble showers will retain their elegant good looks for many years, making them well worth the initial investment. The visual appeal and added property value also make marble tile showers a smart upgrade. Bring hotel-style luxury into your own home with a marble tiled shower.