Step 1: Mark Location, Install Plumbing

Determine the shower’s size and location on the rear or side of the house. Mark out the back wall of the shower on the side of the house using a measuring tape, pencil and level. Use a circular or reciprocating saw to remove the siding or shingles and expose the house’s interior walls. Hire a plumber to run hot and cold plumbing to the site.

Step 2: Install Cement Board

Cover the exposed wall area with cement board, which acts as a moisture barrier and provides a masonry surface for the tile and thinset to bond to. Make sure to mark and cut openings for the plumbing hardware. Secure the cement board to the side of the house with screws. Cover seams with mesh tape and a skim coat of thinset. 

Step 3: Pour Concrete Pad  

Plot out the dimensions of the concrete pad using stakes. Excavate the area to a depth of 8″. Use 1″ x 4″ boards to create forms to hold the wet concrete. Pour gravel to a depth of 4″ and tamp down to a level surface. Prepare pre-mixed concrete according to manufacturer’s instructions and pour it into the form. Work the concrete with a trowel until it is smooth and has the desired pitch. Let it cure for several hours.   

Step 4: Tile Back Wall

Mix latex modified thinset according to manufacturer’s instructions. Using the flat edge of a notched trowel spread a thick coat of thinset up the wall of the house to a height of 12″. Use the notched side of the trowel to even it out. Start setting stacked river rock tile at the bottom corner and work up. Make sure to push

Step 5: Lay River Rock Floor

Starting in one corner, apply a layer of thinset across the top of the concrete base. Gently push the first river rock mesh square into the thinset. Continue setting thinset and laying tile squares until the surface is completely covered. After all the tiles have set up for four to six hours, mix grout and apply with a float. Push down firmly to ensure that the grout gets in between all of the individual pebbles. Immediately wash off excess grout with a damp sponge. Have a bucket of clean water handy to rinse the sponge frequently.

the stones securely into the thinset. Continue setting thinset and laying tile until the wall is completely covered. Be sure to work around the holes for the plumbing fixtures.   

Creating decorative-mirrors using tile can accentuate any plain or boring bathroom, lobby or any other living area’s look. When you are working with decorative tile the sky is the limit from a very simple and clean to a glamorous and / or fancy design. Decorative mirrors will brighten even the most-dull living areas, without going overboard or gaudy. Best thing of all is, grouting is not required most of the time, when creating a block or mosaic mirror design. For people who are looking for a more creative look, there are other options; try layering or alternating different tile styles, using shell, stone or unique designs to give your mirror a one-of-a-kind design. Also don’t limit yourself there are other materials you can use to get the look you want.

Before you get started here are a few things to have planned or an idea about:

• Know the type of design you want or you can search online, to purchase the correct type of deco titles
• Ask or get a list of the items you will be needing to prevent wasting time making trips to the home improvement store
• Know there are other materials to choose from

Block Tile Mirror

To make a block tile mirror using decorative tiles, begin by using 2 to 4 inch tiles. Set tiles along the mirror border and ensure that all titles are cut to the exact length to eliminate using grout. Once the tiles have been cut you are ready to begin decorating your mirror, the complexity of the pattern will depend on your creativity or you can simply go to a home improvement store, search for design online or contact a tile contractor. Tile contractors have an idea on what you may think you want or they can provide you with samples of past projects they have completed to give the client what they are looking for or ideas for their project.

Mosaic Tile Mirror

To make a mosaic tile mirror cutting tile is not needed, all you will need is a hammer. Begin by gently tapping on the ceramic or decorative tiles and break them into pieces. Once you have broken up the titles glue the piece along the mirror’s border. The pieces can be between 2 to 3 inches to make them easier to work with and manageable. For this design grouting maybe required.

Decorative mirrors can be used throughout the home or even in business lobbies to enhance the professional look of any lobby or living area in the home. Mirrors can liven up the room or lobby but not like a decorative mirror can, decorative mirrors will add a touch of class or sophistication to any room. Even a simple design will bring your living area or lobby to life. However, if you would like a complex and professional design ask around to get the name of a good decorative-mirror designer and / or a tile contractor who has completed a few great designs. As with everything make sure you do your homework and research everyone before you decide to work with them or hire them to complete your project.

Ceramic tile was invented and has had longevity in the East, where it was used for decorating ancient pyramids and cities. The use of ceramic tile has been dated to as far back as 4,000 years when man first started building living spaces. Ceramic tiles have been found in some of the oldest Babylonian and Greek cities, used for decorating and as a sign of affluence. When the Persian Empire reached its peak tile decoration was perfected. In the middle of the 12th century the use of ceramic materials were used as general materials to decorate and to build prominent landmarks.

The technique for creating ceramic was a very guarded and secretive process that was passed on only from fathers to sons and teachers to students. However, they didn’t have a much of a design aspect. During these times all tiles were handmade and hand-painted.

How it’s Made

The main material ceramic tiles are mad from is clay. This type of tile is made using fire and the process is called: monoporasa “single firing technology” or bioporosa “double firing technology”. Clay gets compressed, flattened and cut into their shapes and baked in a kiln at 1060C temperature. Unglazed tiles get baked once and glazed tiles twice. During the first firing process the tiles are formed and shaped. For glazed tiles after the glaze gets applied they are fired a second time at about 1200C temperature to allow for the glaze to melt. In the 1840s the tile industry revitalized the tile making process by using the Dust-Press method, which consists of compressing clay between two metal plates. In modern times the tile making industry has now become a fully mechanical process.

Types of Ceramic Tiles

• Glazed

The glaze for these types of tiles is made from flint, China stone, clay and white lead. These materials are grounded to create a clear glaze. Then color gets added to create a range of different colors and patterns. Early times popular colors were: green and turquoise.

• Unglazed

These tiles are limited to the color of the clay used to make them from light sand to red brick colors.

• Mosaic

Mosaic tiles are cut and carved into small pieces depending on the shape. These tiles come in a large array of colors from yellow to black.

• Tube Lining

Tube lining tiles are were first used for Nouveau Art. The process for these tiles is: slips are placed into the surfaces to make raised lines separating the different colors. Then the glaze gets applied.

• Scraffito

Scraffito tiles are covered with coats of slip that is scratched off to produce the desired design.

• Transfer Painting

An engraved copper plate is used to design the tile. Color is applied the excess color then is removed t leaving only the color on the engraved copper plates. The color gets transferred to the tiles and it’s a less expensive method than hand-painting each tile.

Where to Use Ceramic Tile and Pricing

Ceramic tiles are recommended for indoor projects only due to the damage frost can cause. These types of tiles are great for flooring, walls “bathroom, showers, backsplashes”, kitchen counters, and more.

Ceramic are among the most affordable type of tile compared to marble or porcelain tile. Marble tile on the average can range from $12 to $30 per square foot. Porcelain tile ranges from $5 to $10 per square foot. Ceramic tile can be found for as little as $1 per square foot depending on the style and the design. But it’s just as easy to maintain and keep clean.

Clearly tile flooring is much easier to keep clean compared to carpet. Spills simply need to be mopped up but carpet needs to be dried properly to ensure the liquids don’t penetrate into the padding, which can lead to mold or musty smells in the future.

Ceramic tile can be found for sale from online tile shops to the traditional brick and mortar stores. Before you purchase your tile do your research to get the best possible price and save money.

Marble has been used for building materials as far back as the Great Romans Times. Romans used marble to build large structures as well as sculptures and in décor. Marble is a material that due to its dense granular composition and soft homogeneity can be used in numerous projects. Anything from tile floors to wall tiles, in fact marble tile lined the floors and courtyards during the Renaissance Times and even today many people still use marble in their homes and businesses. The use of marble has endured thousands of years due to its refined/ elegant and decorative appearance.

Marble is another form of limestone that has further developed deep in the Earth’s surface for millions of years, also known as “metamorphic rock”. This type of rock has withstood enormous amounts of pressure and heat that have re-crystallized. Allowing it to become a highly sought out decorative material, due to its wide range color rich natural stone appearances.

Marble is produced on large scales. According to the U.S. Geological Survey marble production in the United States in 2006, was about 46,000 tons valued at about $18 million. Worldwide marble demand grows at a steady 12 percent annually. The fine ground calcium carbonate for other construction aggregates is produced at about 4.8 million tons yearly.

Benefits of Using Marble

Since Marble is considered a hypoallergenic and dense building material it has taken the place of using carpet in some cases. It requires minimal cleanup and maintenance. By simply sweeping and mopping on a regular basis it can take up to 20 minutes per week to keep it looking clean and neat. Marble was among one of the most commonly used floorings in institutions before the use of the less-costly porcelain tile grew in popularity. Plus during the peek of summer marble makes it comfortable to walk around barefoot, and making it a great way to add accent to the interior of your home or business.

Uses for Marble Tile

Marble tile can be used for just about any project in homes or businesses.

• Flooring
• Walls “showers, bathrooms and lobbies”
• Around Tubs and Sinks
• Kitchen and Bathroom Backsplash
• Create Designs “floor and walls”
• Countertops
• Stairs
• Foyers
• Fireplace Surroundings
• And More

Marble Tile Pricing

Marble tile tends to be pricier than its cousin ceramic tile but it also gives your project a magnificent and aesthetic pleasant finish. Because of the magnificent finishes marble provides it has made it very appealing and a very highly sought out material for artists and people who want to add a touch of elegance to their homes or businesses. Marble tile prices can range anywhere, from $8 to $30 per square depending on the finish and style. Ceramic tile is priced at $3 to $10 per square foot. Big gap and difference in price, however no other tile can match or compare to the overall finish and look of marble tile.

When it comes to Italian marble tiles they tend to be on the higher end of the price scale because of the refined beauty they create and it’s considered as a sign of affluence. So when you are looking to add a touch of elegance and a wow factor to your home or business: marble tile is the preferred choice.

Where can I purchase Marble Tile?

Marble tile can be purchased from several different places anywhere from online to brick and mortar tile shops or home improvement stores. Purchasing tile from brick and mortar stores gives you the opportunity to feel and touch the actual tile you are going to purchase but in some cases you will end up paying more. But regardless of where you buy your marble tile count on flawless and elegant results.

Installing marble tile can be a can be a Do-it-Yourself project if you have the skill to cut and float the tile but if you are going to hire a tile installer: ensure they are reputable and licensed. By doing so you will ensure your marble tile installations turn out impeccable and not waste your hard-earned money.

Glass tile was first created by Persian, Greek and Indian artisans to make mosaics. In fact the use of glass tile dates back to the 3rd Century BC. Due to the high temperatures needed to melt glass and the complexities to curve the tiles properly it took much longer for glass tiles be used in creating common projects. Glass tiles have become popular to use in accent and field projects. The trend has spurned mainly because of the new technological breakthroughs used to have glass reflect lights and intense colors.

Using Glass tile presents installers more challenges than ceramic or porcelain tiles because of its more rigid and are likely to break during the installation process. However an experienced and licensed tile installer should have no problems installing any type of tile regardless of the materials it’s made from. That’s why it is recommended that you always deal with experienced and licensed contractors to prevent headaches, wasting money and anguish later.

Types of Glass Tile

When it comes to glass tile just like any other type of tile there are different types to select from, such as: Fused, Smalti, Cast and Sintered.

Fused Glass Tiles
This type of glass tile is made from one piece of flat glass and it’s shaped with fire in a furnace to give it its shape. Once it has been shaped the color is added on the top or bottom to give the tile an opaque to clear layer.

Smalti Glass Tiles
This is a glazed tile made from potassium carbonate or sodium from melted Silica, a type of mineral naturally produced by Mother Nature and are usually cut from mosaics into very small shapes.

Cast Glass Tiles
These tiles are made from recycle glass that has been molded after being placed in high levels of fire. Once it has been removed from the heat it’s cut into shapes and if cut meticulously they can look like precious stones.

Sintered Glass Tiles
These tiles are made from powder glass put into high heat levels to give them their shapes. Sintered tiles have become the most popular of all glass tiles due to their durability and their scratch resistance. They get their color from using color particles before they are placed in the heat.

Where to use Glass

Using glass tile over ceramic, porcelain or any of the other materials at times can get pricey, however the magnificent finishes you get are by far the worth every dollar spent. Glass tiles can be used for many projects that most people would never think of. Here are just a few projects in which these beautiful and magnificent tiles can be used to enhance the overall appearance of your home or business.

Projects Perfect for Glass Tiles

• Kitchen and Bathroom Backsplash
• Showers
• Pools
• Waterfalls
• Spas
• Featured Walls
• And More

Although glass tile is not the most affordable to use for people on a budget it will give any home a modern look plus it will add to the property value. So if you are in the market for a new tile project and want a different look with a wow-factor: use glass instead of the most common used ceramic and porcelain tile cousins.

Can I do it Myself?

Depending on the person’s experience and how handy they are working with their hands, they just might be able to pull it off. It is always recommended for your budget and finish to hire a professional for highly complex tile projects. A do-it-yourself project can be a backsplash whether it is for a bathroom or kitchen, just remember if you do it wrong it will be there for everyone to see and critique. Not mention that if glass tile is not handled carefully it will break and your money will be wasted. But if you are still interested in a do-it-yourself job you should consider taking a few courses at the local home improvement store.

“Don’t attempt to learn by watching a video online, the person in the video is a professional and they have performed numerous tile installations. Plus there is no way to ask questions if you make a mistake.”

Travertine tile – is made from a form of limestone deposited by mineral springs most commonly found near hot springs. This type of mineral is usually fibrous or concentric with a white to tan and / or cream colors. Travertine comes from a sedimentary terrestrial rock formed with the help of precipitation carbonate minerals from surface, geothermal heated hot springs and ground water.

Travertine waterfall can be found in North America, “Texas and Oklahoma” and Europe “Italy”. The Romans used Travertine to help build the Coliseum, the French used it to build the Sacre-Coeur Basilica and it was used to build the Getty Center. This type of tile is also used as paving stone in patios and garden paths or in your kitchen or bathroom floors. Also Travertine tile varies in style it can be found in: filled or unfilled, smooth, shiny finish and a variety of colors.

Filled Travertine Tile – The holes found in the stone are filled at the factory with an epoxy resin or during the installation process with grout to prevent dirt from collecting and to give them a smooth and rustic look.

Unfilled Travertine Tile – Mostly commonly used outdoors, “patios, pool decks, paving, etc…” and it comes in five forms “rounded edge, glava edge, chiseled edge, contour edge and / or beveled edge.”

Avoid Color Spills

Travertine tile differs from other types of tile like Marble or porcelain because of the porous finishes. Since travertine tiles are very porous try to avoid spilling anything that has a color base. Due to its porous finishes this type of tile is very susceptible to absorbing color spills whether it cleaned up instantly or not. Although its susceptible to color stains this type of stone gives kitchens and bathrooms a great rustic look. But because they are sealed they can be very slippery when wet so always clean up slips instantly and used are rugs.

Why use Travertine Tile

Most people like travertine tile over other types because it allows them to choose from several different styles, designs and patterns. A few other great thing about this stone is that it’s very durable “will not chip or break easily”, it’s easy to install and will last and look great for a long time. Some people also like to use travertine in their offices because of the durability and the different options and styles they can be purchased in.

Travertine tile is also more affordable compared to marble tile. The square foot of travertine tile averages between $3 to $5 compared to marble at $8 to $12 per square foot. Plus some people would rather have the smooth finish compared to the shiny marble finish because they scruff or scratches are less noticeable. But it doesn’t matter what kind of tile you decide to use always use sliders to move furniture or cushion tips on the legs of all furniture. By taking this precaution your tile floors will last and look great longer.

Where Can I Purchase Travertine Tile

Travertine tile can be purchased worldwide from brick-and-mortar shop to online. Before you purchase or decide the type of finish or style your tile is going to be, always do your research to ensure you are getting the most for you money. Buying online is a great way idea because you will be saving money and some companies will throw in free shipping to get your business, shopping for tile the traditional way allows for customers to feel and see for themselves exactly what they are purchasing. Whether you choose to buy online or the traditional way is up to you.

Just remember whether you are installing travertine in San Diego or any part of the country ensure you are dealing with a licensed tile contractor to get a professional and great looking finish.