How to Install a Granite Bathroom Shower

• 1). In an existing shower, remove the existing shower surround and drywall to the studs. Check for the presence of mold problem and treat any issues with bleach. Allow the treated areas to dry.
  
  
• 2). Tack 6 mil plastic sheeting to the studs to act as a vapor barrier.
  
  
• 3). Cut backerboard (if needed) to fit the shower and attach to the studs using 1 5/8 inch backerboard screws.
  
  
• 4). Using a drywall knife, spread thinset over each seam and tape each seam with 2 inch fiberglass backerboard tape in the same way drywall is mudded and taped. Embed the tape in the thinset by scraping the excess thinset away. Allow the thinset to dry.
  
  
• 5). When the thinset is dry, you can begin tiling the shower walls. Thinset should be mixed to a peanut butter consistency. Mist the backerboard with a little water before applying the thinset. Using a 1/4 x 1/4 x 3/8 trowel, spread the thinset with up-strokes so thinset does not fall all over the shower floor. Begin at the floor and, using at least 1/16-inch spacers, set the tile toward the ceiling. Allow the thinset to dry for at least 24 hours.
  
  
• 6). Mix the grout to a peanut butter consistency. Spread the grout over the tiles with a grout float. Hold the grout float at a 45-degree angle to the tile and at a 45-degree angle to the grout lines when spreading.
  
  
• 7). Let the grout dry for 15-20 minutes. Then wipe the excess grout off of the tiles and form the grout lines to their final profile. Allow the grout to cure for 72 hours.
  
  
• 8). After at least 72 hours, begin applying a high-quality penetrating sealer to the tile and the grout. Add at least three coats of sealer. When the sealer is completely dry, the shower is ready to use.