Shower Tiling Calculator
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How to Calculate Tiles for a Shower
Shower tiling requires full-height wall coverage and thorough waterproofing. Unlike a half-tiled bathroom wall, shower walls should be tiled from floor to ceiling (2.4m) to prevent water damage behind the tiles. This calculator pre-sets the wall tiling height to 2.4m for shower projects.
Shower Tiling Area Quick Reference
| Shower Size | Floor Area | Wall Area (2.4m high) | Total Tiling Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 800 x 800 mm | 0.64 sqm | 7.68 sqm | 8.32 sqm |
| 900 x 900 mm | 0.81 sqm | 8.64 sqm | 9.45 sqm |
| 1000 x 1000 mm | 1.00 sqm | 9.60 sqm | 10.60 sqm |
| 1200 x 800 mm | 0.96 sqm | 9.60 sqm | 10.56 sqm |
| 1200 x 900 mm | 1.08 sqm | 10.08 sqm | 11.16 sqm |
| 1500 x 900 mm | 1.35 sqm | 11.52 sqm | 12.87 sqm |
These figures include all walls of the shower cubicle. If one side is a glass panel, subtract that wall area from the total (but keep the waterproofing behind the glass).
Waterproofing a Shower: The Critical Step
Waterproofing is the most important part of shower tiling. A single crack or gap in the membrane can allow water behind the tiles, causing mould, rot, and structural damage that costs thousands to repair.
| Waterproofing Component | Coverage | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Liquid tanking membrane | 1 L per 2 sqm per coat | Apply 2 coats with roller |
| Reinforcing tape | All internal corners | Embed in first coat |
| Pipe collars | Each pipe penetration | Press into wet membrane |
| Floor drain collar | Shower drain | Seal around drain flange |
Always use products from the same waterproofing system — mixing brands can cause adhesion failure. Allow 24 hours between coats and at least 48 hours before tiling. Read our bathroom waterproofing guide for a detailed step-by-step process.
Tile Patterns for Showers
| Pattern | Tile Size | Waste Factor | Visual Effect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Horizontal stack bond | 10x30 cm or 10x20 cm | 5% | Modern, wide-looking |
| Vertical stack bond | 10x30 cm | 5% | Taller-looking walls |
| Brick bond (offset) | Any rectangular | 10% | Classic, forgiving layout |
| Herringbone | 7x21 cm | 15-20% | Statement feature wall |
| Large format | 60x30 cm or 60x60 cm | 5-8% | Minimal grout, sleek finish |
Feature walls are a popular design choice — tile three walls in a neutral colour and one wall in a contrasting pattern or colour. This creates visual interest without the cost of premium tiles on every surface.
Grout Selection for Showers
Standard cement grout absorbs moisture and encourages mould growth. For showers, use epoxy grout or anti-mould cementitious grout. Epoxy grout is waterproof and stain-resistant but harder to apply. Anti-mould grout is a good compromise — it contains fungicide and is applied like normal grout.
After grouting, apply a grout sealer to provide an extra moisture barrier. Re-seal every 12 months to maintain protection. For the rest of your bathroom, the bathroom renovation calculator covers floor and half-wall tiling. If you are tiling other rooms, use the general tile calculator.
These calculations are estimates only. Actual requirements may vary depending on surface conditions, product specifications, and installation methods. Always consult a qualified professional for precise measurements.
Prices updated: 2026-03Frequently Asked Questions
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