Step-by-Step Guide to Laying Shower Tiles Like a Pro

Laying shower tile isn’t rocket science, but it is unforgiving. One crooked tile, one lazy grout line, one overlooked waterproofing layer, and you’ve got a mess that’s either ugly, leaking, or both. At Witte Home Improvement, we’ve been installing tile across Boulder, Longmont, and Denver for decades, and if there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that good tile work is about patience, precision, and planning ahead.

We don’t just slap tile on a wall and call it a day. We start with a conversation. What’s the layout of your space? What materials are you drawn to? Is this a full remodel or a strategic refresh? Once we get a feel for your goals, we check the site and scope out the wall condition, because no tile job lasts if the foundation behind it is soft, uneven, or full of mold.

When we take on a shower tile installation in Arvada, for example, we don’t just tile, we build systems. That means properly prepped cement board, waterproof membranes in every wet zone, and a layout plan that respects your space, your tile choice, and gravity. That last part matters more than you’d think.

The Process That Actually Works

Layout first. We dry-fit tiles before a single drop of thinset hits the wall. It’s not just about symmetry, it’s about making smart cuts and avoiding awkward corners that look like afterthoughts.

Substrate matters. We replace crumbling drywall with backer board. We seal every niche, edge, and seam with waterproofing. Showers are wet spaces; shortcuts here cost you later.

Tile setting. We use high-quality mortar, proper trowel techniques, and tile spacers for consistent lines. Large-format tiles? That’s a whole different strategy. Mosaic sheets? Even trickier. We’ve worked with all of it.

Grouting. Once the tile is set, we grout carefully, choosing the right grout type and color to complement the tile, not clash with it.

Final seal. No rushing. Sealing isn’t optional; it’s what keeps water from getting into the grout and behind your walls.

Our installs are clean, measured, and built to last. And we never leave a mess behind.

Smart Choices, Solid Results

We don’t push products, but we’ll give our honest opinion. Want natural stone? Gorgeous, just be ready for sealing and a little more maintenance. Want a classic ceramic subway tile? Timeless and easy to clean. We’ll also help you decide on grout width, edge trim, and placement for things like niches or decorative inlays.

When we say “custom,” we mean it. Every project is different, and we treat it that way. A walk-in shower with a full-height herringbone wall? Sure. A tub surround with a modern matte tile and shadow-line grout? Done that. We’ve also tackled patchwork repairs, regrouting, and tile floor replacements in homes where the original installer clearly didn’t care much about corners or slope.

And if you’re not sure whether to repair or replace, we’ll walk you through both options, honestly.

Don’t Overlook the Grout

One of the biggest sources of long-term damage in a shower is failing grout. It cracks, shrinks, and if left unchecked, lets water get behind your tiles. That’s where mold and rot begin, and that’s when a small repair turns into a gut job.

We handle full grout replacement, color matching, and sealing. If your tile’s still in good shape but your grout looks tired or discolored, a simple regrout can breathe new life into the whole space without tearing anything out.

Ready to Tackle Your Shower?

Whether it’s a master bath remodel, a guest bath facelift, or a fix to an old install that’s falling apart, we bring real-world experience, not guesswork. And unlike some crews, we show up on time, we don’t talk in circles, and we clean up when we’re done.

If you’re looking for a tile installer in Boulder who actually listens, plans ahead, and respects your home, we’re your team. We don’t overpromise. We don’t cut corners. We tile like it matters, because it does.

Get in touch for a free consultation. Bring us your sketches, your Pinterest boards, your vague ideas scribbled on napkins. We’ll help you turn them into a clean, watertight, beautifully finished shower, no stress, no shortcuts.