What size tiles are best for a shower?

Author: Giovanna Gleichner  |  Last update: Thursday, June 25, 2026

Shower floors do best with smaller tiles measuring 1”x1” to 4” x 4.” Smaller tiles, particularly mosaic tiles, allow for gentle contours that promote better drainage. Smaller tiles on floors allow for more grout placement in between the tiles.

Are bigger tiles better for shower walls?

For a small bathroom, large tiles are generally recommended to create a more open and spacious feel, especially on the floor. However, using small tiles can work well for accents or in shower areas. Consider a mix of both if you want to incorporate design elements.

What tiles should not be used on a shower floor?

Stone and porcelain tiles are the best for the shower floor. Avoid glazed ceramic tiles in this spot, as they tend to be slippery. Also, remember that non-vitreous tiles are not suitable for the shower floor. Only impervious or vitreous tiles should be used in the shower area, as they are relatively more waterproof.

What tile pattern makes a shower look bigger?

A chevron or herringbone pattern can make a room appear bigger, as the shapes move the eye along the surfaces.

Can you use 12x24 tile on a shower floor?

While these tiles are commonly used on shower walls, they can also be a great choice for shower floors.

How to Choose Tile for Your Space

What size tiles are best in showers?

Shower floors do best with smaller tiles measuring 1”x1” to 4” x 4.” Smaller tiles, particularly mosaic tiles, allow for gentle contours that promote better drainage. Smaller tiles on floors allow for more grout placement in between the tiles.

Is 12x24 tile trendy?

Porcelain Tiles 12x24 are popular due to their lovely trendy patterns. These tiles have the potential to be both beautiful and easy to maintain. As a result, it is quickly becoming the people's first option.

What is the best color for shower tile?

Neutral colors like white, gray, and beige have dominated bathroom tile design due to their versatility. Serving as a clean, minimalist foundation, these colors suit various styles and palettes, ideal for creating a serene environment.

Do you need to tile the ceiling in a shower?

Tile is meant for a wet area.

If the tile doesn't go to the ceiling, the section of the shower with paint and drywall will get wet. Paint and drywall is not water proof, so, overtime you may have problems with mold and decay.

What is the best spacing for shower tiles?

The gap you opt for will depend on a few factors: The size of tile you're using: smaller tiles often look great with thinner grout lines, around 2-3mm. For larger tiles or tiles with uneven edges, however, wider grout lines (3-5mm) can help with alignment and hide any imperfections.

What should you not do when tiling a shower?

Avoid These 7 Bathroom Tiling Mistakes
  1. Not Preparing the Wall. ...
  2. Haphazardly Applying Caulking. ...
  3. Skipping a Backer Board. ...
  4. Laying Out Tile Incorrectly. ...
  5. Using Improper Tools. ...
  6. Skimping On Quality Grout. ...
  7. Creating Grout Haze. ...
  8. How Do You Avoid Bathroom Tile Mistakes?

What is the easiest tile to maintain in a shower?

Ceramic tile makes cleaning easy as it is not easily stained and can be cleaned with as little as some soap and water — no harsh chemicals needed!

What shower tile never goes out of style?

Tiles in marble, limestone or terrazzo will never go out of style. These are the materials we consider to be the most classic and timeless. The issue is that they can be hard to keep clean but now thanks to all the advancement in tile technology we can get the look using porcelain tiles instead of the real deal.

What is the best grout for showers?

Epoxy grout: Waterproof, durable, stain- and shrink-resistant. The best grout in shower walls, backsplashes and other surfaces susceptible to moisture or stains. Ideal for use with unglazed and other tiles.

What are the disadvantages of big tiles?

- Can be challenging to install: being heavier and bigger than smaller tiles, large tiles can be tricky to get installed correctly. In most cases, you will likely need to invest in the help of a professional if you want to use larger tiles in your home.

How to choose tile size?

It is important to note that the larger the surface area to be covered, the larger the tile size should be in relation to this. Using larger tiles will actually reduce the number of joints, and therefore improve the aesthetic appearance of your preferred style.

Do you drywall behind shower tile?

Can you use regular drywall behind shower tile? Standard drywall and even moisture-resistant drywall are not typically used in bathroom shower areas and should not be used here. Drywall absorbs moisture and can be damaged by water, which means it is highly unsuitable for use in the shower.

How high should tile go in a shower?

The classic design feature is usually between 34 and 54" high, with 36" being the average height. A traditional offset or straight set pattern in a standard field size tile works well for this wall height. For a truly classic look, finish the top with a decorative trim or a bullnose edge.

What is the best ceiling height for a shower?

The most common standard height for a shower stall is around 84 inches. That leaves a bit of room for some tile or acrylic surround above the shower head, which is typically installed at about 80 inches. Now, 80 inches is usually enough for most people to comfortably fit under the flow of water.

What tile is popular for showers?

Porcelain tile is our number-1 choice for showers because of its diversity, durability, and water-resistance.

What is the trend in bathroom tile in 2024?

Brilliant blues and glimmering greens are a 2024 trend that we predict will be around for years to come. We love how Wade Home Remodeling used the Look Blu tile in this shower. The shine of the tiles reflects the light, making this small space feel fresh and light even though the tile is a darker color.

Is matte or glossy tile better for shower?

Matte Tiles:

They are known for their slip-resistant properties, making them a safer option, especially for wet areas like the bathroom floor. Matte tiles are less prone to showing water spots and fingerprints, making maintenance and cleaning easier.

Is it better to have large tiles in shower?

Contrary to what you might think, large format tiles can actually make a small bathroom feel more spacious – plus, with fewer grout lines, they're much easier to keep clean and beautiful.

What tile pattern is timeless?

Traditional Hexagon Styles

Black and white hexagon mosaic tiles are one of the most timeless tile styles in existence.

Is accent tile in shower outdated?

I'd say that depends. If you have never had a shower with an accent strip, then for you the look is still fresh. For those of you who have been there and done that – I'd say there are still so many other ways to feature accent tile in bathroom that this party is just getting started.

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