Upgrading Your Shower: Simplifying the Process Part 2

Hi I'm McKenna, an Interior Designer here at Flooring America. I have designed and helped clients build their dream bathrooms for a number of years, it is my passion to help homeowners navigate through the process of choosing the right products, layout and installation techniques to provide the form and function you deserve in your next remodel project. Renovation can be exciting for most homeowners, but many get overwhelmed once they realize the amount of choices needed to make in order to upgrade their shower. In this two part series, here are a few pro tips help you make the best decisions when it comes to your next remodel.

In my first blog of this series I talked about your inspiration and aesthetics of your next shower but what about the mechanics and function? What waterproofing solutions for showers are out there? What is the best grout? How do I prevent water damage in my bathroom? I've created this easy guide to what are the key components when creating a functional shower.

• Shower pan: To prevent water damage I recommend the professional installation of a matte-finished tile under 3” in size to ensure it can be sloped for proper drainage. 

• Shower wall tile: Consider the size of your shower and amount of grout lines you will get when choosing this tile. Whatever you put here will set the overall tone of your shower, so pick something that is versatile and timeless.

• Accent tile: If you choose to include an accent, this is where you can have the most fun. Accent tiles can include a variety of colors, and can help to tie the whole space together.

• Trim: Tile is unfinished on the edges, and therefore needs to be covered with trim. Some tiles come with a rounded bullnose to match, or you could opt for a sleek metal trim. We recommend choosing a color that matches the tile for a seamless look, or accenting it with a metal that matches your fixtures.

• Threshold: This is the curb to step into the shower. For perfect coordination, place your porcelain wall tile here. If you want an upscale look, go for a solid threshold made of natural stone.

• Grout: The grout determines how much emphasis you put on the layout of your tile. The more of a contrast between the grout and tile, the more the pattern stands out. Consider the size of the grout lines as well.

I hope that these blogs have helped you feel more prepared and informed to make decisions on your next shower remodel but if you are still feeling overwhelmed about tile, grout, waterproofing and finishing products that's what we are here for. Myself or any of the experts at Flooring America can help guide you through the process from start to finish, working with the needs you have determined the most important to you. For over four decades clients have been relying on us for the knowledgeable in-store experience you deserve and the professional installation you expect.

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                                                         McKenna