Choosing the right shower floor tiles can make all the difference in creating a bathroom that is both stylish and functional. The flooring you select needs to be attractive, durable, slip-resistant, and waterproof. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to narrow down your choices. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to pick the perfect shower floor tiles for your space. We’ll cover the pros and cons of different materials, popular trends, slip resistance, installation tips, and plenty of design inspiration to help you create your dream shower oasis!
What to Consider When Choosing Shower Floor Tiles
There are several factors to take into account when selecting shower floor tiles to ensure you choose an option that fits your needs:
Durability
You want shower floor tiles that can stand up to daily wear and tear and resist staining, scratches, and cracks. Look for tiles rated for high durability and hardness on the Mohs scale. Some good options include porcelain, ceramic, and natural stone.
Slip Resistance
Safety should be a top consideration for any shower flooring. Be sure to choose tiles with ratings of 0.42 or above on the coefficient of friction (COF) scale to prevent slips. Mosaics, smaller tiles, and tiles with more texture tend to offer better traction.
Water Resistance
It’s crucial shower floor tiles can withstand exposure to water without damage or mold growth. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are very water-resistant. Natural stone may need to be sealed periodically.
Style
You’ll want shower floor tiles that match your overall bathroom design aesthetic. Consider color, pattern, size, shape, and texture that complements your decor.
Ease of Cleaning
Shower floors need regular cleaning, so opt for smooth, non-porous tiles that are easy to wipe down and keep clean. Stay away from grout lines that can trap dirt and debris.
Budget
Tile pricing can range dramatically based on material, size, and quality. Set a firm budget before you start shopping around.
By keeping all these factors in mind, you can zero in on the ideal shower floor tiles for your bathroom remodel!
Popular Shower Floor Tile Materials
When it comes to choosing a material for your shower floor tiles, you have lots of great options. Here are some of the most popular:
Ceramic Tile
A classic choice, ceramic tile is affordable, durable, and water-resistant. It comes in a huge range of colors, shapes, textures, and patterns. The downside is it can crack or chip.
Porcelain Tile
Porcelain tile is fired at a higher temperature than ceramic, making it denser and even more durable. It’s stain, scratch, and water-resistant. Porcelain is easy to clean and maintain.
Mosaic Tile
Mosaic shower floor tiles use small, intricate pieces to form dazzling patterns. The mosaic surface creates better traction. Just be aware grout lines need diligent cleaning.
Stone Tile
Slate, granite, marble, and travertine can make for luxurious shower floors that feel spa-like. However, stone can be quite slippery when wet. Make sure to seal it routinely.
Glass Tile
Glass mosaic tiles lend eye-catching sparkle and reflect light beautifully. The smooth surface can be slippery though, so use anti-slip treatments. Glass may chip over time.
Metal Tile
Metal tiles like copper, bronze, and stainless steel make bold, contemporary statements. Keep in mind they can get quite cold underfoot. Durability varies by metal.
There are pros and cons to each material, so think about your own priorities and needs for your shower flooring. Combining materials can give you the best of both worlds aesthetically and functionally.
Shower Floor Tile Design Ideas
When designing your shower floor, don’t limit yourself to basic white square tiles. There are infinite possibilities for creating a UNIQUE, stylish look. Here are some top trends to consider:
Bold Patterns
Go graphic with bold stripes, geometrics, or crisscross patterns in contrasting colors. Pair with glass walls for modern style.
Moroccan Style
Vintage encaustic patterned cement tiles in vibrant hues evoke exotic Moroccan bathhouses. Use blue, green or terra cotta colors.
Mosaics
Tiny glass, ceramic or porcelain mosaics in swirling or linear designs pack visual punch. Good for small spaces.
Marble & Stone
Carrara, travertine or slate marble tiles lend organic texture. Mix sizes for interest. Honed finishes minimize slippery feel.
Metallic Accents
Add glam with metallic silver, gold or copper mosaic tiles as accents. Works with glass, porcelain or ceramic.
Wood Look
Wood-look porcelain planks offer warmth. Stick to large format tiles and neutral tones. Check slip rating.
River Rock
Smooth rounded pebble tiles in earth tones emulate walking through a gently flowing stream. Use larger grout lines.
Black & White
Classic subway tiles, harlequin or checkerboard patterns in black and white create timeless contrast.
Don’t be afraid to combine materials, shapes, layouts and colors to design a custom shower floor that showcases your unique personal style.
How to Choose Slip-Resistant Shower Floor Tiles
Slip and fall accidents are unfortunately common in showers, especially for children and elderly people. That’s why it’s crucial to choose shower floor tiles with adequate slip resistance. Here are some tips:
- Check the COF rating – Choose tiles rated 0.42 or above on the COF scale. Higher numbers mean better traction.
- Mosaic tiles – Smaller tiles provide more grout lines for grip. Good for kids’ baths.
- Textured tiles – Tiles with more texture, such as wood-look planks, offer better slip resistance when wet.
- Avoid polished stone – Honed or flamed stone finishes are less slippery than highly polished.
- Add grip strips – Adhesive grip strips can be applied to existing floors for better traction.
- Use a slip-resistant treatment – Sealers with grit or epoxy coatings will improve traction.
- Contrasting tiles – Alternating tile colors helps visually define the shower floor area.
- Proper drainage – Ensuring water flows towards the drain keeps floors from getting overly slick.
With the right tile choice and safety measures, you can enjoy your shower confidently knowing the flooring is designed for traction. Don’t cut corners when it comes to slip resistance.
Tips for Installing Shower Floor Tile
Installing shower floor tile takes time and careful attention to detail. Follow these tips to help the job go smoothly:
Use a Waterproof Membrane
Waterproof shower floor underlayments like Schluter Systems Kerdi protect floors and walls from moisture damage.
Slope the Floor
Ensure at least 1/4″ per foot slope so water drains properly without pooling.
Choose Appropriate Tile Backer Board
Cement, fiber-cement or coated foam backer boards stand up to wet conditions.
Use Specialized Thin-Set Mortar
Look for thin-set mortar designed specifically for shower floor tile installation.
Follow Layout Lines
Use level lines and spacers to lay out tiles neatly and evenly spaced.
Fill Grout Joints Properly
Apply waterproof grout sealer and ensure joints are full to prevent cracks and mildew.
Seal Natural Stone
Seal slate, travertine or other porous stone before and after grouting to prevent staining.
Allow Time to Cure
Don’t walk on tiles for at least 24 hours after installation. Wait 72 hours before using shower.
By taking the time to prep and install shower floor tiles correctly, you’ll help ensure they last for many years of safe daily use.
Shower Floor Tile FAQs
Still have questions about choosing the perfect shower floor tiles? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
What size shower floor tile is best?
Larger format tiles 12″ x 24″ or larger have fewer grout lines for easier cleaning. Mosaics and 4″ x 4″ tiles provide better traction. Choose based on your needs.
Should shower floor tile go all the way to the walls?
Yes, tile should span from wall to wall for proper waterproofing. Leave 1/8 to 1/4″ gap between tile and walls that you caulk later.
How long does shower floor tile installation take?
With proper prep work, you can install shower floor tile in 2-3 days. Allow additional time for thinset mortar and grout to fully cure before use.
Can you put shower floor tile over existing tile?
It’s not recommended. Remove old tile completely to create a flat, stable, and properly sloped surface for new tile.
Should shower floor tile match wall tile?
Uniform tile can look sleek, but mixing materials, colors and patterns on floors and walls can be striking. It’s a personal choice.
How often should shower floor tile be regrouted?
Inspect grout every 6 months. When it gets cracked or powdery, re-seal and regrout it. Most showers need regrouting every 2-5 years.
Can shower floor tile be heated?
Yes, you can install electric radiant floor heating under tiles. Use an uncoupling membrane over the heating system before tiling.
Shower Floor Inspiration
Need some visual inspiration before choosing your perfect shower floor tiles? Here are some gorgeous examples of stylish shower designs featuring unique combinations of shapes, colors, materials and layouts. Let these dreamy shower oases spark your creativity!
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This vibrant Moroccan style shower features an eye-catching blue mosaic tile floor with a contrasting vertical damask glass mosaic accent. The variety of colors and shapes is visually intriguing.
The classic harlequin pattern on this black and white shower floor provides plenty of visual interest while keeping a soft and neutral color scheme. Bold yet elegant.
These smooth natural river rock pebble tiles in a mix of warm earthy tones emulate walking along the edge of a babbling brook. Bring the serenity of nature into your shower.
Achieve the beauty of real wood without the maintenance with these wood-look porcelain planks complete with varied grain patterns. Chic and cozy.
Crisp white subway tiles serve as the perfect backdrop for the undulating sea green glass mosaic accent strip in this elegant shower. The pop of color elevates the simple classic tile shape.
Finding shower floor tiles you love can make your morning routine feel like a spa experience. Take inspiration from these designs to create your own signature style. The options are limitless!
Conclusion
The shower floor is a central functional and decorative feature of any bathroom. Selecting durable, waterproof and slip-resistant tile is key, but don’t forget about aesthetics too. Following shower floor tile trends like bold patterns, mosaics and natural stone can help you make a stylish statement.
Proper prep and installation are critical for ensuring your tiles last long term. With the right know-how, you can DIY your way to a beautiful new shower floor that reflects your unique personal taste and lifestyle needs.
We covered everything from slip-resistant tips to tile trends to get you on your way to creating your dream shower oasis. Just take the process step by step. Before you know it, you’ll be ready to relax under the stream of your newly upgraded shower!