A detailed view of a bathtub area enclosed by a soft archway with white subway tiles. The shower space is adorned with luxurious marble tiles, a built-in niche holding bath essentials, and warm brass hardware that complements the green paneled wall and floral curtain.

How I Installed a Beautiful Tile Tub Surround (And You Can Too!)

Welcome back, DIY enthusiasts! If you’re just tuning in, this is part two of my guest bathroom remodel adventure. Today, I’m showing you how I turned a boring shower/tub combo into a stunning tile tub surround. If I can do it, you can too! Let’s dive in.

A cozy bathtub alcove with a green arched surround and classic floral shower curtain. The interior features sleek white marble tiles with soft gray veining, paired with elegant brass fixtures, including a rainfall showerhead and handheld sprayer.
A chic bathroom showcasing a tub surrounded by marble tiles, an arched frame with white subway tiles, and brass fixtures. A floral curtain and a built-in wall niche add character, while the green wainscoting adds a refined contrast.

Associated Blog Posts
Complete DIY Guide to My Dark Green Bathroom Remodel
DIY Curved Molding Around an Arch
How To Build an Arched Bathtub Alcove
Upgrading Our Guest Bath with DIY Picture Frame Molding
How To Build a Brass Rail Shelf (high-end dupe)

What I Used

Where I Started

Before tackling the tile tub surround, here’s a quick recap. I started with the demo and built the frame for my bathroom’s showstopper—a beautiful arched alcove. I also added a shower nook for extra storage. Pro tip: To build a nook, install two crossbeams between the studs—one at the top and one at the bottom (sloped slightly forward for drainage). It’s a small detail that makes a big impact!

Attaching Cement Board and Drywall

With framing done, it was time to prep for tile. Any area getting tiled must be covered with cement board—it’s tougher than drywall and essential for a waterproof tile tub surround. I used a special drill attachment to cut the cement board, carefully fitting it around the shower nook, plumbing, and underside of the arch. Then, I secured it to the studs with concrete screws.

For the outside of the shower, I installed moisture-resistant drywall. Cutting the perfect arch was a breeze: I hung the drywall first, used the wood arch as a guide, and cut from the inside with my trusty multi-tool.

Waterproofing the Tile Tub Surround

Waterproofing is crucial for any bathroom tile project, especially a tile tub surround. I sealed the cement board seams with fiberglass tape and thin-set mortar. Once dry, I coated the entire area with AquaDefense—it’s amazing! Using a paint roller, I applied two coats, an hour apart, to create a reliable waterproof barrier.

Installing Tile in the Shower Nook

With the waterproofing done (note the blue walls from AquaDefense), it was time for tile. I started with the shower nook, using small subway tiles for the back. I find it’s easiest to place all the full tiles, then go back and fill in with cut pieces. For the nook’s edges, I trimmed pieces of the marble tile I used for the walls—fewer grout joints, cleaner look.

Installing Tile on the Walls

A ledger board is a must when tiling your tile tub surround—most tubs (like mine!) aren’t perfectly level. The ledger board ensures your first row of tile is even. I used a laser level to align it and secured it with a brad nailer.

Using a notched trowel, I applied thin-set to the wall and back-buttered the large marble tiles for extra adhesion. Starting at the bottom, I worked my way up, saving the bottom row (below the ledger board) for last. Once the upper tiles dried, I removed the ledger board, and patched the brad nail holes with AquaDefense.

Then, I trimmed and installed the very bottom tiles. Shims were perfect for propping them up off the tub since you want to keep that grout line even for a professional look.

A tile tub surround with large marble-style tiles in a staggered pattern. A recessed niche tiled with white brick-style tiles holds a red measuring tape and small tools. The bathtub below is protected with plastic, and tools are visible, including a bucket of mortar.

For the arch, I used the same small subway tiles as the shower nook. After applying thin-set, I placed the tiles one by one while my assistant added spacers to keep everything aligned.

Two people working on tiling an arched bathroom shower. The adult is applying mortar to the curved edge, while a child in festive pajamas places a tile spacer at the top of the arch. The wall is tiled with large marble-style tiles, and the recessed niche is visible.

Cutting Tiles Around Plumbing and Fixtures

Cutting tiles for a tile tub surround can feel intimidating, but it’s manageable with the right tools. For small cuts (like the showerhead), I used a diamond hole saw. For larger openings, like the shower handle, my tile saw worked like a charm. A little water while drilling keeps everything cool and smooth.

Grouting and Sealing

Once all the tiles were in and the thin-set dried, it was time to grout. Using a grout float, I pushed grout into every gap at different angles. Before it dried, I wiped away excess grout with a damp sponge, rinsing and repeating until the tiles were clean.

If you want a visual of the process, I have a video showing how to apply grout from another shower remodel I did awhile back.

For the gap between the tub and tiles, I switched to silicone caulk. Silicone flexes with the tub’s subtle movements, preventing cracks. I also sealed around the fixtures for a watertight finish. These little details are key to a durable tile tub surround.

My Finished Tile Tub Surround

And there you have it—my tile tub surround is officially complete, and I couldn’t be happier with the result. From the arched alcove to the marble tiles and gorgeous brass fixtures, this project has transformed my guest bathroom into a luxurious retreat.

A stylish bathroom with an arched entry to a white marble-tiled shower featuring gold fixtures, including a rainfall showerhead and handheld sprayer. A cream floral shower curtain adds softness and charm, while a gray patterned towel hangs on a brass hook near sage green paneled walls. The warm wood flooring and a subtle vintage-style rug complete the look.
A cozy bathtub alcove with a green arched surround and classic floral shower curtain. The interior features sleek white marble tiles with soft gray veining, paired with elegant brass fixtures, including a rainfall showerhead and handheld sprayer.

Would you like to see the full bathroom reveal? Click this link for all the details in one blog post.

A modern farmhouse bathroom with sage green walls featuring paneled molding, a dark wood vanity with brass hardware, a white countertop, and gold fixtures. The room is styled with a vintage gold-framed landscape painting, wooden wall hooks, and a small floating wooden shelf holding decorative jars and greenery.
What is the best way to waterproof a tile tub surround?

Waterproofing a tile tub surround involves sealing the seams of the cement board with fiberglass tape and thin-set mortar, then coating the entire surface with a waterproofing membrane like AquaDefense. This ensures your shower stays protected from moisture and prevents long-term water damage.

Can I install a tile tub surround as a beginner?

Yes! With proper preparation and the right tools, installing a tile tub surround is a DIY-friendly project. Start by ensuring the area is waterproofed, use a ledger board for straight tile alignment, and work methodically from the bottom up. Following tutorials like this one can make the process easier.

How do I ensure the tiles in my tile tub surround are level?

Using a ledger board is the best way to ensure the tiles in your tile tub surround are level. Since most tubs aren’t perfectly straight, the ledger board creates a reliable guide for your first row of tiles, ensuring a professional look.

What type of grout and caulk should I use for a tile tub surround?

For a tile tub surround, use a high-quality grout for the tile gaps and silicone caulk for areas prone to movement, like the seam between the tub and tiles or around plumbing fixtures. Silicone is flexible and water-resistant, making it ideal for sealing these areas.

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