How to Install Six3Tile Shower and Tub Wall Panels That Look Like Tile: A Quick Guide

Do you need to tile a high volume of shower and tub surrounds for multifamily apartment renovations? Then, you need a streamlined tile solution – Six3Tile Shower & Tub Surround Pro Kits. This ceramic-tile alternative doesn’t require a ton of time, money, or (most importantly) skilled labor. If you’re interested in this innovative solution and want to know how it all works in a nutshell, this is the article for you. In it, we’ll give you an overview of the installation process for Six3Tile Shower & Tub Surround Pro Kits.

Verify Whether Your Mounting Surface is Appropriate

To use Six3Tile for your shower and tub surround installation, your mounting surface will need to be solid, clean, and smooth. It doesn’t have to be finish quality, but it shouldn’t be jagged or disfigured. It should also meet any applicable building codes.

Six3Tile can be installed on a few different surfaces, including:

• moisture-resistant drywall
• cement backer board
• existing tile

In instances where you’ll be installing the panels over existing tile, determine whether the tiles need to be cleaned. Under no circumstances should Six3Tile be installed over mildew, mold, or soap residue; doing so will reduce the effectiveness of the adhesive you’ll use to mount the tile panels. So, we urge you to take some time to clean up the surface if necessary.

Lastly, ensure that the existing watertight barrier is still in good condition; it’s best practice to make any repairs if needed. You’ll learn in this article, Six3Tile panels are designed to create a watertight seal when properly installed, but it’s best to have as much protection as possible in an area like showers and tubs.

Know What’s in the Six3Tile Shower & Tub Surround Pro Kit

Now that you’ve prepped the wall for the install, turn your attention to your tile panels. Our Tub Surround Pro Kit comes with 9 panels, and the Shower Surround Pro Kit comes with 12 panels. The instructions you’ll find in this article will apply to both of these kits. Ensure that the kit in your possession is a match.

How to Ensure Your Install Goes Well

Six3Tile shower and tub surround panels should be installed in a specific order to minimize the amount of cutting you’ll need to do, ensure the consistency of the tile pattern, and save you time. When you’re cutting the tile panels, only make cuts on the same ends (the left side ends, for example). That way, the tile pattern will be consistent from the first panel to the last.

It’s important to have a watertight seal at the corners and bottom of your installation area. To achieve that, run a generous bead of silicone caulk to the height of the tile and around the base prior to installation. 

How to Do a Tub or Shower Replacement with Six3Tile Subway Tile Panel Board

You’ve got all of the preliminary information down. Let’s get into the installation instructions to follow for the most professional results. We urge you to follow the below instructions closely.

1. Start by installing the bottom back wall tile sheet. Take a few moments and measure, cut, and check whether the piece is level. Apply some construction adhesive to the back of the panel and then press it into the wall to adhere.
   1. Pro-tip: Some tubs slope to the back to help manage water. Make sure to draw a level line that aligns with the front corners of your tub so you don’t run into issues in step #2. 
2. Next, install the side wall tile sheets so the bottom row is installed. You may need to cut these pieces to match the depth of the tub enclosure. For these panels, you’ll need to measure or cut access holes for any fixtures or pipes. Always measure and check whether the panel is level. Continue installing the tile sheets as you have before. Things should go a lot quicker now that you have done it previously.
3. Install the next back tile sheet right above the previous one. The tile sheets interlock together when stacked on top of each other. They also create a grout line. Be sure the tile panel is fully “seated” on the lower panel, creating a perfectly straight grout line. Apply adhesive and stick it to the wall. 
4. Install the second row of side wall tile sheets. Be conscious of measuring and cutting access holes on the plumbing wall and check to make sure the tile sheet is level. 
5. Continue installing each row with the back wall first, then the side panels. 
6. Apply edging. Install edging to add interest and cover up any exposed edges. To install it, you’ll simply slide the edging underneath the edge of the tile before the adhesive sets. You’ll do the same when installing the edging at the top of the shower or tub surround.
7. Start grouting the tile panels. You don’t have to wait for the tile adhesive to set. Only use non-sanded or unsanded grout. You’ll use the same grouting process that you would if you were installing traditional ceramic tile.

To learn more about the tub and shower surround installation process, check out this in-depth installation guide or watch this video demonstration to see the installation for yourself.

So, there you have it – a condensed version of how to install Six3Tile Shower & Tub Surround Pro Kits. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to check out our customer resources and frequently asked questions. And we’re always here to answer your questions personally – contact us here! Happy tiling!