How to Install a Tile Shower Shelf

Installing a shower tile shelf is a great way to add shelves to the shower room without having to purchase or build new bathroom shelves. These shelves are not only functional and decorative; they save a lot of space too. The easiest way to install a shower tile shelf is to install diagonally cut tiles in the corners. Corner tile shelves are a lot easier to install because they do not require cutting a hole in the wall. Follow these steps to install a shower tile shelf.

Step 1 - Preparation

It is recommended that 12-inch tiles be used for shelving. The shower tile shelf needs to be strong and stable in order to hold any bathroom paraphernalia securely without breaking. Thinner and smaller tiles may not provide the best strength for the job, so make sure to use the recommended size.

Plan where to install the shower tile shelf prior to the tiling project. Determine at what height it is to be installed. It can be installed after the first row of tiles is set, or after 2 rows are set in place. Determine whether additional shelves are to be installed.

Step 2 - Cutting the Tiles

Create a template for the tile shelf from cardboard. The tile shelf can be cut diagonally to form a triangle or cut in a circular manner to form a quarter-circle shape. Use the cardboard template as a guide to cut the shelf using a tile cutter.

Step 3 - Anchoring the Shelf to the Wall

To ensure that the tiles and the shelf are anchored to the wall securely, use thinset as an adhesive. Install the first set of tiles first at the bottom of the wall horizontally and add another row if needed. To anchor the shelf to the wall, add a sufficient amount of thinset on the edges of the shelf using a trowel. Carefully place the shelf in the desired corner. Ensure that the rear edges make full contact with the walls. Slightly slope the shelf towards the ground in order to prevent water from occupying the surface after installation.

Use a finger to smooth the thinset that oozes out of the sides of the shelf. Then use a damp sponge to clean the surface of the shelf before installing the next set of tiles.

Step 4 - Finishing Touches

Install the next set of tiles above the shelf to sandwich the shelf in place. Add more shelves to the top corners if desired in the same manner. Grout around the shelves and allow the mortar to dry.