Bathroom Remodel in 7 Days

(to connect drain assembly) male

(to connect assembly) female

Helpful tools:

American Standard Studio tub installation instructions

5/16" driver bit

(connecting ferncos)

Review video on removing trap

#21 Dryfit tub and Mark drain location

If you need new sub flooring under tub to match up with outside floor, you'll need to mark the drain location and cut out a section of plywood to allow drain assembly to attach to main plumbing

This is a good time to review the manufacture instructions of the tub installation. Here's an example of specs required for cutting of subfloor for an american standard tub

I highly recommend build.com for purchasing plumbing supplies & fixtures

Review video on marking location

#22 Attach Fernco to existing plumbing

It'll be much easier to adapt to existing plumbing before setting new subfloor (or patching area needed to get to existing plumbing)

Here are the adapters I recommend for attaching to 1 1/2" copper:

1 1/4" - 1 1/2" fernco

, or

copper-PVC no hub fitting

(many areas require this)

Review Adapter installation video

#23 Install new subfloor

A lot of times l under a tub needs to be replaced or an added layer is needed

After adapting to your existing plumbing, you can install the appropriate sized plywood into place

Here are some helpful tools:

Paslode nail gun Makita cordless circular saw 8d nails

Review Subflooring installation video

#24 Install tub drain

For Drain assemblies, I would always refer to the manufacture's recommendations. A lot of these tubs have specific drain assemblies associated with each tub. Be sure to pay attention to what is required or what's included

Here are a few models of tub drain assemblies that I often use for standard sized tubs (60" wide)

Everbuilt drain assembly

Cable driven drain assemblies

Glued drain assembly

Helpful Tools and Materials:

Ridgid tub drain wrench

Water clear silicone

newborn caulking gun

Channel locks

Review video on installation of drain assembly

Tubs I like and recommend

Over the years I have installed many different types of tubs. Some I love, some I hate 😆

Here are my recommendations for tubs that I love (not really in a specific order of best to worst)

Jacuzzi Linea - An acrylic tub that is well constructed. Easy to clean, comes in various sizes. Great warrantyDeep soaker

Jacuzzi Signature - An acrylic tub that is well constructed. Easy to clean, comes in various sizes. Great warrantyDeep soaker

American standard studio - Acrylic, heavy construction, easy to clean, great warrantyDeep soakerAlso available with a

American Standard Americast - Heavy construction, easy to clean, durable, great warranty, standard 15" height

Kohler Caste Iron Tub

- Super durable, very heavy, well constructedStandard height Only Kohler tub I recommend these days; I've seen way too many poorly constructed acrylic tubs from Kohler😡

#25 Install tub drain assembly

So much easier to install before the tub is set in place!

Helpful Tools and Materials:

fender washers galvanized screw silicone Bucket Mud Mixer Milwaukee mud mixer Hilti Drill kit

Ridgid tub drain wrench

Water clear silicone

newborn caulking gun

Channel locks

Review video on installation of drain assembly

#26 Dry fit tub and set ledger board

Not all tubs require a ledger board, but for the above video demonstration with the American Standard Princeton (above floor rough-in) a ledger board required.When setting tub with a ledger board, always dry fit it to make sure the flange rests nicely on top all the way across ledger board. Sometimes the bottom of flange has a rough fiberglass surface that isn't always consistent. It may take a couple times of dry-fitting to adjust the ledger board in correct positionUse silicone on top of ledger when securing tub, this will give an extra bond and ensure the tub is secure.

Helpful tools and materials:

Review video on setting ledger board

#27 Dry fit tub again 😊

It always takes setting tub more than once to ensure a good installation

Double check how tub is resting on ledger board and move if needed

Review tub installation video

#28 Set P-trap arm

It's easiest to set the P-trap arm in place before securing tub in place.

Sure beats cramming yourself into the access area to connect!

Here are helpful tools and links to plumbing parts:

Here's a list of what I would buy to have on hand:

1 1/2" PVC Solvent weld P-trap

For attaching to 1 1/2" copper I recommend using

1 1/4" - 1 1/2" fernco

, or

copper-PVC no hub fitting

(many areas require this)

(to connect drain assembly) male

(to connect assembly) female

Helpful tools:

Sharkbite 1/2" shut off valves

5/16" driver bit (connecting ferncos)

Review tub installation video

#29 Set & secure tub in place

There are 3 primary ways most manufactures want their tubs installed

#1 Mortar bed installation

I highly recommend this way if the manufacture recommends it. Always refer to the manufacture's specifications

#2 Setting & securing tub with adhesive

#3 Not adhesive or mortar; simply screw in place

Review video on American standard Americast installation

Review video on tub installation with mortar (this is on platform I am no longer apart of, but wanted to share since it is a common way of installing tubs, please leave a comment to Jeff telling him I sent you there and that he should pay me for my work there)

#30 Attach Trap to Drain assembly

Attaching Trap is easy now that you have the trap arm set and drain assembly on tub.

Simply glue in place

I recommend having both types of trap adapters on hand incase you need more room.

1 1/2" adapter Male

1 1/2" adapter Female

Review tub installation video

#31 Adapt copper supplies to Pex

In my experience, converting copper to PEX is the fastest and easiest ways to install a shower faucet.

If you have an an access to back of tub, its best to adapt at the access point and install shut off valves

Having access can also give you the ability to not have to solder and use shark bite fitting. Keep in mind that some areas in the country don't allow this per plumbing code

But it is a fast and simple way to attach shut off valves and convert to pex

Sharkbite debur/depth gauge

Sharkbite removal tool

The other alternative is to sweat on adapters

Here is a list of tools & materials:

Drop Ear Elbow (shower port)

Pex adapters to copper

Shut off valves (pex)

Sharkbite hose adapter

Ridgid Tubing Cutters

Alternative crimper Sharkbite

No-Go Go gauge

Sharkbite hose adapter

Review video installation of shower valve

#32 Install rough-in shower valve

Choose a rough-in valve that will make things easiest for yourself. I love Delta tub/shower faucets

In this tutorial I used a standard Delta Universal Valve

If you want to make things even easier, I'd recommend getting a Delta valve with Pex adapters

And if you really want to simplify the install, get a Delta Valve with the Tub stub out included with pex adapters

If you do not have access to water supplies (no access panel or shut off valves), then getting the versions with the integral shut offs is best

Delta R10000-PFT-PXWS

Review video tutorial on delta tub/shower faucet

Tub/shower faucets I recommend

Here is a list of my favorite tub/shower faucets:

Delta Ashlyn

Moen 90- degree collection

Hansgrohe

Kohler Bancroft

Pay attention to rough-in valves:

Make it easy on yourself to install

Example: Delta rough-in with pex & tub spout installed

#33 Fill Tub and Test

Be sure to fully test your tub and check for any leaks on the tub/shower faucet installation

Some helpful items:

Sharkbite hose adapter

Test plug - shower port

#34 Move sink drain (if applicable)

If the adapter for your sink drain is soldered in, not in good condition, or needs to be moved, then this is the time to replace and adjust the sink drain to location needed

Refer to the cabinet you are going to install and adjust height of trap adapter to fit.

Most of the time 19" off subfloor works for open door cabinets, but can vary with vanities with shelving

Helpful tools and materials:

Heavy metal sawzall blade Milwaukee sawzall kit Makita cordless circular saw Torpedo levelMission couplings 1/14" x 1 1/2" Fernco

Review video on moving a sink drain

#35 GFI outlet

Most of the time, you need a dedicated circuit to your breaker box. Things may have been fine and working for decades......but to be safe a new line is best.

💫 I recommend getting using bigger outlet boxes for GFI outlets

This will make it easier to install them20 cubic inch boxes

Helpful tools & materials:

12/2 20 amp wire 20 cubic inch boxes Nail plates Spade bits Linesman stripping pliers Klien electrical tester Ideal Wire nuts Klein screw driver set electrical tape Hilti drill kit Headlamp

Review video tutorial on GFI

Day 3

#36 Framing, blocking, shimming

🔨Framing, blocking & preparing for drywall🔨

Fur out walls so that backer boards can slide over tub flange

Framing at edge of tub for anchoring support of drywall and backer board transition (also great for support for anchors of shower doors)

Be sure studs are inline with one another; This will ensure a flat installation of backer board and make for an easier tile installationAnything with a difference of a 1/4" or more should be addressedYou can shim, plane or sister studs to accomplish this

Plane down a higher stud with electric planer

Protect plumbing and electrical with

nail plates

Other helpful tools and materials:

Axe sawzall blades

Paslode nail gun

6ft level

4ft level

Review video tutorial on framing, blocking & shimming

#37 Blocking for Accessories

Adding blocking for locations of accessories will make it much easier to install and be sure things stay in place!

Helpful tools and materials:

6ft level

4ft level

Review video tutorial on framing, blocking & shimming

#38 Hanging Drywall

💪Hang drywall in rest of bathroom💪

Hanging drywall by yourself can be a challenge!

Here are a few tips that will make it easier for you

Always hang the ceiling first, then hang a full sheet at top of wall

This give makes for an easier finishing process. The edges of drywall have tapered edges that allow you to fill and tape, which helps to eliminate excess build up and more work to feather out the seams

Dimple bits

are an affordable way to prevent screws from penetrating through drywall paper layer

Drywall gun

is the next best thing. This will allow you to quickly fasten boards while struggling to hold up boards 😆

Drywall Roller lift

will help get the bottom board set tight to top sheets

One of the greatest tools for cutting around drywall boxes and other items is a

RotoZip

Drywall hanging is a rough carpentry project. Don't be stressed about minor imperfections, gaps or missed screw holes. The finishing process will take care of these imperfections 👍

Helpful tools for hanging drywall:

Review video on drywall hanging

#39 1st coat drywall

🏁 Drywall Finishing 1st coat 🏁

Finishing drywall is something that takes patience and time to get a good result. Know that there is no rushing this step, but you do need to know when to walk away...😆 Remember sanding easy-sand drywall mud is exactly that, you can always address things with another coat and fix any mistakes

The first coat I would say is the easiest and allows you to practice

Allows mix the mud before starting.(drywall mixing paddle works best) A cup of water will get a nice consistency

When applying drywall mud, take a half a trowel 6" knife

and apply to corners

👉👉👉Most important part of 1st coat is to have the paper tape fully embedded in drywall mud

Scrape and embed in corner starting with the ceiling first

For straight seams, be sure to fully embed tape with mud. Its better to have too much mud than not enough!

For screw holes, I recommend using a slide method with trowel; skimming over a series of screws in one motion

You can always fix mistakes! 😊

Always clean mud around bucket to prevent mud from hardening and falling in mud

Helpful tools and materials:

Plus 3 drywall mud

Paper tape

Schluter Ditra Kerdi Band

Review video tutorial on 1st Coat

#40 Tile Layout

This is the time to start thinking about your tile layout, especially if you plan to install a recessed niche

I like to simply mark out the tile on studs to determine an approximate height of each tile.

The obvious goal is to eliminate a sliver at any location (niche, ceiling, tub, etc)

Planning the border height is helpful too.

Be sure to review video tutorial on layout and niche placement

#41 Frame niche

🔨Framing Niche 🔨

Before framing a recessed niche evaluate these key points:What height shelf height is needed for the products stored? (shampoo, etc.)

2. Is the wall load bearing? If so you may need a header to carry load

If floor joists sit like this on a wall, then its load bearing

3. If its not load bearing, you can simply frame to the custom size desired

4. Avoid setting a niche in an exterior wall. Its best to have at least an R-13 value of insulation behind wall and most exterior walls are 3 1/2" - 5 1/2" thick which would NOT provide enough room for insulation

5. Determine height of bottom and top of niche with the layout of tile. Typically setting the bottom and/or top with a grout joint works great. This way you prevent slivers around the niche

6. Remember that you can always build up the bottom or top of niche during the tiling process. So by making the niche bigger than what you may need is a safe bet 👍

Helpful tools:

Laser

Laser pole

Makita cordless saw

Paslode framing nailer

Review framing a niche video tutorial

#42 Waterproof Backerboard for Tub Surround

🚣Waterproof Backer Board Installation 🚣

After this stage, you will feel like the bathroom is back to a functional room! 👍

And it technically is a functional bathroom at this point. Tthere's no reason you couldn't use the tub and shower after setting these waterproof panels. Simply install the cartridge for shower faucet and add the shower head, and you'd be good to go 👍

But hopefully things worked out thus far and you can keep pushing forward 👊

Go Board is without a doubt on of my go-to backer boards for a tiled shower or tub surround.

There are many great things about it:

Its light and easy to cut (no dust, utility knife is all you need!)Already waterproof (outside surface is a waterproof membrane)Easy to waterproof seams and screw penetrations (sealant application is really simple)It's affordable!💰 Probably one of the most cost effective boards. Roughly $25 a sheet (contractor pricing)

Here's what's needed for a standard tub surround:

6 sheets of 3' x 5' sheets ( if your building a custom niche) Here's a

7 board kit

10 tubes of sealant

go board screws

Schluter valve seal

Schluter pipe seal(tub spout)

Schluter pipe seal(shower head port)

Corner trowel

4" putty knife

🛁Overcoming the tub flange🛁

There are 3 main ways to overcome a tub flange. Sometimes a combination of ways is needed dependent on your bathroom configuration:

1.The first way is by shimming out the studs (you probably already did this if you followed my advice in previous video

2. The second way is to rest the backer board on top of the tub flange and fill the gap

3. Notch backer board to allow it to slide over tub flange (Below is a WEDI backer board)

📓There are a few rules to follow when installing GO Board📓

Apply sealant to tub deck (1/4" caulk joint) before setting board in place

Caulk in between each panel (corners and walls)

Caulk all corners and apply more sealant to maintain a 1" overlap on each side of corner (Corner Trowel)

Apply additional sealant over all seams and screw penetrations (1" overlap)

Bring waterproofing along side of tub (recommending 2")

Custom niches - Apply sealant at all intersections and maintain overlap 1" on all panels

Pitch bottom sill and apply sealant to all corners, seams, screws

Schluter Valve Seal

Cut a 4 1/2" hole; easiest with a

4 1/2" hole saw

Pipe seals

3/4" for shower port

1/2" for tub spout

Use Schluter Kerdi band for transition between drywall and Go board

Other helpful tools & materials:

Acetone(to clean your hands!)

rubber gloves

Oscillation tool

Spade bits

Kerdi trowel (for thinset and kerdi fix application)

Schluter All-set thinset (applying kerdi band for drywall seam)

Review video tutorial on installing GO Board

#43 Valve & Pipe seals

For extra insurance, installing valve and pipe seals will provide protection

Most tub spouts do not have a seal on them, by using a pipe seal will ensure no water gets behind backboard

Schluter Valve Seal

4 1/2" hole saw hole size for valve seal

Pipe seals

3/4" for shower port

1/2" for tub spout

Review video tutorial on waterproofing a tub surround

Day 4

#44 Set Schluter Ditra for floor

💫 Setting Schluter Ditra 💫

Most important part of a Ditra or Membrane installation is having the thinset mixed wet enough for the fleece to adhere well.

Almost all the issues that I have seen over the years is from the thinset being too thick and no adhesion to fleece of a membrane or Ditra Mat

For half bag mixing I recommend using a scale to accurately measure

I highly recommend using Schluter All-set Thinset for setting membranes. It has a superior bond and extends warranty with Schluter

Be sure to use the

proper size trowel for Ditra

For Kerdi Membranes use a Kerdi Trowel

Mixing Schluter All-set for membranes

7.5 - 8.5 quarts of water per bagMix for 5 minutesSlack (let sit for 10 minutes)Mix for 2 more minutes (do not add water)Rule of thumb - make sure thin-set can hold trowel ridges when spreading it

👉Setting Ditra:

Burn thinset into substrate with back side of trowel

2. Directionally trowel thin-set using a Ditra Trowel

3. Embed Ditra Mat with Float

4. Always check coverage 👊

5. Use Kerdi Band to waterproof all seams - Using a Kerdi Trowel

6. At tub transition apply Kerdi fix to tub

7. Apply Thin-set to Ditra mat with Kerdi trowel

8. Embed Kerdi Band and wrap up tub slightly - oozing kerdi fix is a good sign 😊

9. For extra waterproofing insurance, embed Kerdi band around all corners of bathroom

10. Tiling floor can immediately be done after installation 👍

Other helpful tools:

Review video tutorial on setting Schluter Ditra

#45 Waterproof against tub

Schluter is very specific with the way they want things to be done.

To waterproof against tub you need the following:

Kerdi fix

Kerdi Trowel

Kerdi Band

Review the video tutorial

#46 Waterproofing floor

Since you most likely have the materials....I would recommend going the extra step and flashing all corners of room with the Kerdi Band and go over main seam of ditra to make is 100% waterproof

Kerdi Trowel

Kerdi Band

Review the video tutorial

#47 Tile Layout

✏ Tile Layout ✏

This is always one of the most time consuming and confusing parts of tiling. But if you implement a strategy that gives you the flexibility to adjust things as you set tile, the less frustrating this will all be.

Here are some key strategy points to consider and implement:

Start the back wall of a shower or tub surround This will hide the corner grout joints from the most common viewpoint of shower

Start out with less than a full tile on first row This way you can overcome any unevenness, or un-level areas of shower or tubIt will also allow the tile to be cut nicely around edge of tub

Mark tile layout on wall to reference a general layoutKeep in mind that spacers will most likely expand the overall height

Determine shower border heightMost shower rods for tubs are set between 58"-62"

Keep in mind you can always expand a border to provide height needed to prevent a sliver at ceiling Most mosaics come on 12" sheets and can easily be expanded from a 3" border to a 4" borderBe sure to account for additional sheets to have the flexibility to do this

Helpful tools:

Montolit grinder STL blade (diamond cutter wheel)

Montolit CGX grinder blade (great for porcelain)

Cordless grinder(Milwaukee)

Makita paddle switch grinder(corded to attach to shop vac)

Fein Grinder Shroud(keeps dust down)

Fein Shop vac(with tool switch; turns on when using tool)

Montolit Mini Puima tile cutter(Great for subway and 6x6 tiles)

Montolit Masterpuima tile cutter(great for tile up to 25")

Montolit DNA 10" blade(great for porcelain and ceramic)

Collomix mixer(amazing mixer for thinset)

Be sure to review video tutorial on mixing thinset and tile layout

#48 Determine trowel size

👉 Trowels

In order to have a solid and sound tile installation, you must have good thinset coverage on the tile your setting. The TCNA recommends 95% coverage on any installation in a wet area and 80% outside of that.

One any given bathroom remodel you will need multiple sized trowels. Here's a general list of the most commonly sized trowels needed in a basic remodel:

1/8" x 1/8" trowel(Kerdi Trowel) to apply membranes

3/16" x 3/16" trowel(Ditra Trowel) to apply uncoupling membranes

1/4" x 1/4" trowel(Tiles under 12" long; mosaics)

1/4" x 3/8" trowel(Schluter pans, Tiles over 12" long)

Euro Trowel(large format tile; great for 12" x 24" tiles or Plank tile)

1/2" x 1/2" Trowel(large format tiles, great for large floor tiles)

Always check coverage on tile and membranes. If the coverage is not good.....then move up to the next sized trowel 👍

Other helpful tools:

Collomix Mixer

6 gallon Ardex buckets

scale(for measuring half bags)

Measuring bucket

Respirator

Be sure to review thinset mixing video tutorial

My favorite thinsets

#1 Ardex X77 or X5

a. X77 is without a doubt the best thinset I've used to date. It has a super long pot-life and an amazing non-sag aspect to it. Great for small glass mosaics, intricate tile, and anything that requires precise detail.

b. X5 is my every day thinset. its half the cost of X77 and does a tremendous job for floor tile, large format tiles, subway tiles. It also has a great pot-life and is non-sag.

c. I highly recommend this thinset for beginners and tradesman that need more time with things. I never worry about going to lunch or taking my time with tiling with this stuff 😊

#2 Schluter All-set

a. I always have a bag of this in addition to the Ardex thinsets. It has a superior strength and bonding to Schluter Ditra and membranes.

b. If you use this on a Schluter shower system it will extend the warranty from 10 years to 15 years

c. Great for floors and large format tiles

#3 Laticrete 4XLT

a. Honestly, not much different than Schluter All-set. Same kind of consistency & pot-life

#4 Mapei thinsets

a. I included these because if you prefer to get your thinsets from big box stores, I would recommend getting the Mapei products verses Custom. These all pretty much perform the same.

b. Not overly great on pot-life (1 hour or so)

c. Not that great in the non-sag area either (for intricate penny tiles or other mosaics I would not recommend any of these)

d. Great for when you just need something convenient to grab 😊

Be sure to review video tutorial on thinsets

#49 Check coverage

This goes in hand with trowel sizing. Be sure you are getting 95% coverage, and go up a trowel size if needed

#50 Tile back wall of shower

😊 Tiling the back and side wall 😊

All tiling begins with planning and a good thinset mixture. Be sure to review my recommendations on thinset and tile layout.

Here is a quick reference on mixing my favorite thinset - Ardex X5:

6-7 quarts water per bagI recommend 6.5 quarts for most installations

Mix for 2 minutes

Quick reference on trowels & coverage:

When choosing a trowel size for tile, always double check the coverage you are getting before committing to a trowel size. A

1/4" x 1/4" trowel

usually work great for tiles under 12" long I used a 1/4" x 1/4" trowel for this demonstration

Back buttering tiles will ensure better coverage too

🔨Tools that make this process much easier! 🔨

horseshoe tile spacers

A manual tile cutter is a very helpful tool Most installations I only use a manual cutter and grinder

My favorite is

Montolit Masterpuima

The

Minipuima

is great for 6 x 6's and subway tile

This is by far my most used tool when tilingGreat for scraping out joints and maneuvering tiles around

A wet saw is not always necessary, but very help for cutting intricate pieces such as shelving and L-cutsMy favorite is the

White scrubby pads for clean upIt is always easier to remove thinset within 24 hours after settingIt is okay to clean-up before hand as long as thinset is firm and keeping tiles in place

💫Tile layout tips to remember💫

Start on back wall to hide the corner joints from main viewpoint

Start with less than a full tile on first rowThis will allow you to scribe cut and overcome any uneveness

Start from center when able and works for your layoutThis will provide even cuts on either side of wall

Maintain at least a 1/16" joint between tub and first rowThis provides a good silicone joint by allowing the silicone to go into joint

If you need to stop at any point for the day, always clean thinset on wall and against tilesI typically stop at the border height for the day; gives me time to set up mosaics on Kerdi Band

For removing stubborn thinset the next day or week use

Helpful materials & tools:

(embed ditra)

(diamond cutter wheel)

(cheaper option; great for porcelain)

(Milwaukee)

(corded to attach to shop vac)

(keeps dust down)

(with tool switch; turns on when using tool)

(Great for subway and 6x6 tiles)

(great for tile up to 25")

(great for porcelain and ceramic)

(amazing mixer for thinset)

( to remove stubborn thinset)

Review video tutorial on setting tile on back wall

#51 Cut shelving

There are many options out there for shelving

If you pick up a threshold sill at box stores you can cut down to fit your custom niche

Here's a few options:

Marble

Gray marble

travertine

another marble option

Most of the time a wet saw is the only option to cut things down nicely

My favorite wet saw is

Review video tutorial

#52 Tile side wall

Continue your pattern from back wall

Review video tutorial on setting tile

Clean tiles

If you clean up tile in the same day as setting, it'll be much easier!

Here are a couple helpful tools:

#53 2nd coat drywall

✨ Drywall Finishing 2nd Coat ✨

Its best to lightly sand all areas and corners before applying second coat. This isn't a very serious sanding.....just making sure all the chunks are removed.

I use these

sanding blocks

with a 45 degree bevel on them. They can get into the corners nicely

It's also not a bad idea to remix your mud (I did not demonstrate or do this on this coat 😃)This will give a more creamy consistency before applying

I like to start with corners for second coatThis seems to work out better to do straight seams after cornersAnd ceiling top corner is easier (In my opinion)

After applying mud to one side of corners, Apply mud with a 10" on straight seams

Remove with a 12" or 14" blade

Go over screw holes again with a larger blade

Helpful tools and materials:

Plus 3 drywall mud

Paper tape

Review video tutorial on 2nd coat application

#54 Tile floor layout

💥Tile Floor Layout & Prep 💥

Don't over think it 😊. If you have a similar sized bathroom floor, you will quickly realize that most of the floor space will be covered by fixtures. Not saying to be sloppy about it, but spending too much time on layout and being precise with sizing edging pieces is not all that productive, especially if you have large format tiles like these 12" x 24" tiles

Here's an overview of the layout process:

Reference the most visible area for squareness and placement of most attractive tile pieces

Mark center points and reference edging piecesTypically a 5ft wide room works out well with 12" wide tiles; can simply start from center and get equal side pieces

Be sure to avoid any slivers at door entrance. Typically going to edge of door stop is where you want to end things

Double check length of room to avoid slivers

Pay attention to the curvature of your tiles this will help determine the staggered pattern needed to avoid excessive lippage A good reference from the

TCNA

is to stagger tiles over 15" in length to 33%

Check squareness of edging of tilesThis is important for determining spacers used to get the desired grout joint size you wantMost tiles I use the

1/32" clips

(My favorite leveling system is T-Lock)

Helpful materials & tools:

TCNA Handbook

Euro Notch Trowel

(great for 12" x 24")

(1/32" kit)

(1/16" kit)

Ardex X5 thinset

(diamond cutter wheel)

(cheaper option; great for porcelain)

(Milwaukee)

(corded to attach to shop vac)

(keeps dust down)

(with tool switch; turns on when using tool)

Fein Oscillating tool

(Great for subway and 6x6 tiles)

(great for tile up to 25")

(great for porcelain and ceramic)

(amazing mixer for thinset)

Review video tutorial on tile layout

#55 Cut and prepare floor tile

Cutting circles in tile can be done many ways, I like using an

STL blade

and grind cut my way through. This does not need to be super accurate, there will be plenty of room to hide an ugly cut by the toilet

Layout tiles before mixing thinset and setting into place 👍

Review video on cutting and tile layout

#56 Setting mosaics on Kerdi Band

🔸 Mosaic border Prep 🔸

So this task can be done when you have thinset already prepared. I had done this after setting the ditra membrane at the beginning of the day; using the rest of the Schluter All-set thinset to apply it

Time spent preparing this will save you time tomorrow 👊

First determine the size of your borderYou can always make it bigger and cut things down before setting

Cut Strips of

Kerdi Band

Apply thinsetMost of the time a

3/16" notched trowel

works well

Be sure to clean up substrate after apply thinsetYou don't want the kerdi band being set to whatever your on 😃

Set Mosiacs

Tamp in place with a

grout float

Make sure you keep the border straightUse a level or other form of straight edge

Let sit overnight 👍Much easier way to install a border!

Helpful materials & tools:

Review video tutorial on setting mosaics

Day 5

#57 Tile plumbing wall

♦ Tiling Plumbing Wall & Niche ♦

You are a PRO now 👊

Here's the drill 👇

Set your laser to tile height of the first row

Scribe cut tiles to maintain consistent joint to tubCut tile around edge of tub rim

Cut tile around valveReference the escutcheon plate that comes with your faucet to be sure cuts are good 👍

Helpful materials & tools:

1/4" x 1/4" trowel

Wood float(embed ditra)

Montolit grinder STL blade(diamond cutter wheel)

Montolit CGX grinder blade(cheaper option; great for porcelain)

Cordless grinder(Milwaukee)

Makita paddle switch grinder(corded to attach to shop vac)

Fein Grinder Shroud(keeps dust down)

Fein Shop vac(with tool switch; turns on when using tool)

Montolit Mini Puima tile cutter(Great for subway and 6x6 tiles)

Montolit Masterpuima tile cutter(great for tile up to 25")

Montolit DNA 10" blade(great for porcelain and ceramic)

Collomix mixer(amazing mixer for thinset)

Sulfamic Acid crystals( to remove stubborn thinset)

Review video tutorial on tiling plumbing wall

#58 Tile Niche

Set sill of niche first

👉You may want to buy a large tile that matches to avoid a grout joint on sill

Set mosaics with a grout float

Trowel size is dependent on thickness of mosaic

1/4" x 1/4" trowel typically works great

Set side pieces of niche a and allow to sit slightly past wall to maintain small grout joint with edging

Set shelf and apply thinset on either side of shelf before setting

Set second set of mosaics

If using a wet saw to cut mosaics, be sure to wipe off excess waterExcessive water can be a bond breaker between tile and thinset

Set second shelf And finish mosaics

Finish mosaics and inside of niche

Review video on tiling niche

#59 Set edging of Niche

Set bull nose tiles and evenly space

Support top bullnose if needed

other options of edging

Schluter Rondec - image

Marble pencil trim - image

Review video tutorial on setting edging

Review video on setting Schluter Rondec

#60 Set mosaic border

Mosaic border setting will be a breeze with the preparation done on Day 4

👉Here's the steps:

Cut off excess kerdi membrane off of mosaics

You can also cut down the size of border as well if wanting a more slender border

Cut to length

Apply thinset - can be as thick as needed to bump out mosaics flush with other tilesSet back wall first

Tamp into place with

grout float

Space with spacers

Horseshoe shims are awesome 👍

Finish off top rowsMaintain at least a 1/16" space between ceiling and tile

Finish off tile along side of tubThis may need to be done during the floor tile installation

Clean up! Use

scrubby pads to remove thinset

My favorite scrapper is the

linoleum knife

Helpful materials & tools:

(embed ditra)

(diamond cutter wheel)

(cheaper option; great for porcelain)

(Milwaukee)

(corded to attach to shop vac)

(keeps dust down)

(with tool switch; turns on when using tool)

(Great for subway and 6x6 tiles)

(great for tile up to 25")

(great for porcelain and ceramic)

(amazing mixer for thinset)

( to remove stubborn thinset)

Review video tutorial on setting a mosaic border

#61 Clean tile & tub

If you clean up tile in the same day as setting, it'll be much easier!

Here are a couple helpful tools:

#62 Sand Drywall

Sanding, sanding, sanding 😆

Using a 3M sanding block

Review video on 3rd drywall coat

#63 3rd coat drywall

✨ Drywall Finishing - 3rd Coat ✨

This will get easier over time!

Try to be patient and not play with it too much.....😃 Easier said than done I know...

Helpful tools and materials:

Plus 3 drywall mud

Paper tape

3M sanding block

Respirator

Review video tutorial on 3rd coat

#64 Set tile floor

💥 Setting Tile Floor 💥

👉Be sure to refer to Tile layout and Prep if you do not have tiles preliminarily cut and ready to set

👉 Also be sure to reference tutorial on recommended thinsets & coverage

Ready, set, GO

Select a trowel that will get good coverageAlways test a piece by troweling, setting and pulling up a piece to check coverage

Use a leveling system for large format tilesMy favorite is

T-lock

Be sure to check sides of tile for squarenessselect a tile spacer that will provide the grout joint you want

Completely fill in waffle of Ditra mat

Applying with a grout float or back side of trowel

Directionally TrowelBest to go in direction of short size of tile

Back butter tiles

Set clips and wedges

If you place wedges in direction of previous set tile, the grout joints will be easier to maintain evenness

Remember you can always add more thinset to tiles if something is off or there isn't enough on tiles

Set edging at door

My favorite is Schluter Rondec

Shim edging if needed

You want the edging to be flush with tile

Helpful materials & tools:

3/8" x 1/2" Trowel

Schluter edging (Rondec)

TCNA Handbook

Euro Notch Trowel

(great for 12" x 24")

(1/32" kit)

(1/16" kit)

1/4" x 1/4" trowel

Wood float

(embed ditra)

Grout float

Fein Oscillation tool

(cutting door jamb)

(diamond cutter wheel)

(cheaper option; great for porcelain)

(Milwaukee)

(corded to attach to shop vac)

(keeps dust down)

(with tool switch; turns on when using tool)

(Great for subway and 6x6 tiles)

(great for tile up to 25")

(great for porcelain and ceramic)

(amazing mixer for thinset)

( to remove stubborn thinset)

Review video on setting floor tile

#65 Cut door jambs for tile

Cut door jamb to allow tile to slide underKeep in mind most doors swing into bathroom, so stopping at door stop (middle of jamb) is a typical location An Oscillating tool is helpful

Review video tutorial on setting tile

#66 Set floor edging

Set edging at doorMy favorite is Schluter Rondec

Review video tutorial on setting floor tile

Day 6

#67 Sand Drywall

Sanding, sanding, sanding 😆

Using a 3M sanding block

Review video on touch-ups

#68 Touch-up drywall

🏁Final coat

This would technically be the 4th coat for drywall finishing

I like to get this out of the way first thing!

This should be to simply fill in any air bubbles or other nicks and scratches

5 minute mud

If needing more time, there is 20, 45 &

90 minute mud

Helpful tools and materials:

Respirator

Review video tutorial on final coat

#69 Clean up tile floor

😊 Clean-up 😊

If your kind of messy like me.....this isn't always the most fun project 😆

That's one thing I want to get better at - being cleaner and neater when setting tile

Here are a few tips that will help:

Use a rubber malletto avoid chipping tiles

Hit the clips parallel with grout joints

If a clip gets stuck, no big deal, just cut below tile layer1/8" or so is good enough

Be careful not to penetrate waterproofing

If you let thinset sit for more than a day or so,

Sulfamic acid crystals

will soften thinset

Add a couple tablespoons to water and spray areas neededBe careful on natural stones (marble, travertine, etc) this may etch it

Test an area before applying everywhere (primarily for sensitive tiles)

Wear a respirator and DO NOT get in your eyes

Let sit for 5-10 minutesScrub with a

After removing thinset, wash well with water Let everything completely dry before groutingThis could harm grout if left in joints

Linoleum knife (scraper) is great for this!

Especially if you used sulfamic acid

Helpful tools and materials:

Microfiber clothes

Windex with vinegar

Review video tutorial on tile cleanup

#70 Mix Epoxy Grout

✨ Mixing Epoxy Grout ✨

Laticrete Spectralock Epoxy Grout comes in two size packages

2 1/2" lb kit

9 lb kit

Mixing is fairly straightforward:

Add Part A & B first into a clean bucket

Be sure to get every last drop! This makes a big difference with making a fluid mixture

Thoroughly mix part A and B

Thoroughly mix part C

Helpful tools:

Milwaukee mud mixer

Review Epoxy grout video

My favorite grouts

Over the years I've used many different kinds of grouts and have grown to love and hate many of them....

I'm also very cautious when it comes to white grout.

So when it comes to white grout, I've only been recommending Epoxy grout. These two are the best I've found:

Spectralock Pro Epoxy

Ardex WA Epoxy

For other colors, its a little less concerning to me, but here are my recommendations in order of best to good

Spectralock Pro Epoxy

Spectralock1(pre-mix) becoming a favorite & very DIY friendly

Laticrete Permacolor

Mapei FA

All grouts above do not need sealed or require any further maintenance

#71 Set grout

🌟Setting Grout 🌟

This is the hardest part of the whole installation process.

Packing the joints can be exhausting......This is where you may want to buy a couple of the mini kits

to lesson the labor. Do one wall at a time and take breaks

Here are the steps to repeat on each area and wall:

Dampen the surface of wall with a sponge

Don't allow water to run down grout joints; this is simply to wet the surface to allow grout to glide over tiles

Pack joints I like to start with the border at top of wall, but any top portion of wall works

A good Grout float helps a lot

Focus on packing joints

Don't worry about grout leftover on wall, but remove what you can without pulling any grout out joints

A grout float margin trowel can help in tight spaces

After packing all joints, be sure to make a ball out the remaining grout so you can touch up things later

Be sure to clean tub during this process

Helpful tools and materials:

Grout float

(trox)

Grout float

(Marshalltown)

Laticrete epoxy haze remover

Windex with vinegar

grout float margin trowel

Review Epoxy Grout Video tutorial

#72 Prep for paint

Final sanding for drywall use a 3M sanding block

and wet sand with sponge. Wipe down all walls and ceiling; removing all dust

This will keep the project rolling while waiting for epoxy grout to set up. Typically it take 10-20 minutes for grout to set up enough to start scrubbing

Don't get side tracked too long. Be sure to periodically do a test on grout:

After 10 minutes or so test joint with fingerIf grout is coming out of joint wait another 5-10 minutesYou want to be able to press the joint and not pull out grout onto your finger

Review wet sanding process in this video

#73 Clean & tool grout

💥Clean-up💥

Timing is everything!

Timing of initial wash will depend on humidity and temperature of your homeIf its dry and hot, It may be able to be worked on right awayTypically its 10-20 minutes after everything is packed (which could take 25 minutes by itself)

After 10 minutes or so test joint with fingerIf grout is coming out of joint wait another 5-10 minutesYou want to be able to press the joint and not pull out grout onto your finger

Test again If grout is moldable but not sticking and pulling out onto your finger, your ready for initial scrub

Test an area with scubby pad and make sure grout is not running out of jointsIf grout is moving out, stop and wait for another 5-10 minutes and repeat finger test

Great thing about epoxy is that you don't have to worry about the amount of water used!White Scrubby pads are a must-have for epoxy grout removal

Wipe off excess water and grout with a spongeArdex sponges are worth the extra expense!

This is an important step; use Microfiber clothesIt will reduce the haze residue remaining on wall from wet sponges and cleaning

Helpful tools and materials:

Ardex sponges Linoleum knife (scraper)Rubber gloves White Scrubby pads 5 minute mud Microfiber clothes Windex with vinegar

#74 Prime Walls & ceiling

🎨 Priming 🎨

Let's get things ready to paint 👊

Wet sand areas needed with spongeRemove dust from ceiling and walls with damp sponge

A standard drywall primer or PVA primer is all that is needed for new drywall

Cut ceilings in firstI like using a

2 1/2" brush

Prime all walls

Use 3/8" nap rollers for new drywall

Other helpful tools:

Paint tray Paint tray liners 9" Roller 3/8" nap rollers 2 1/2" brush drywall primer Sherwin Williams 1050 QD Newborn 950-gts (drip-free caulking gun)

Review video on priming walls & ceiling

#75 Caulk ceiling and edging joints

To have a long lasting caulk joint (especially at ceiling and tile joint) - Use a siliconized latex caulk

This gives the flexibility needed, but also allows you to paint it easilyMy favorite is

Sherwin Williams 1050 QD (quick dry)

Start out cutting the tip of caulking tube small

Fill ceiling joints

New born caulking guns are great!

Review video tutorial on caulking

#76 Paint ceiling

Use a flat white ceiling paint My favorite is

Masterhide by Sherwin Williams

Cut in around perimeter of ceiling first with ceiling paintBe sure to coat the caulking joint to match ceiling 👍

Using 3/8" nap rollers is best for this too

Typically 2 coats is neededIf you run vent fan and/or of a fan moving air in bath, you can get second coat on fairly quickly

Other helpful tools:

Sherwin Williams 1050 QD

Newborn 950-gts (drip-free caulking gun)

Review video on painting ceiling

#77 Shower trim

🚿 Shower Faucet Trim 🚿

This is an easy step 😊

Helpful tools & materials:

Review video tutorial on shower trim installation

#78 Paint walls

🎨 Painting 🎨

Quick and easy now 👍

Keep continuous motions with your brushMy favorite is the Purdy 2 1/2" brush

My favorite paint it Super paint from Sherwin Williams

Be sure to apply paint over latex caulking on edging of tile

Use 3/8" nap rollers for smooth surfaces like this

Other helpful tools:

Sherwin Williams 1050 QD

Newborn 950-gts (drip-free caulking gun)

Review painting video tutorial

#79 Caulk corners of tub surround

✨Caulking Tub 🛁 and corners ✨

Only do this part of project if you are done making a mess 😃

You don't want anything to fall into joints before they dry 👍

For bright white, I use GE Kitchen & Bath Caulking

If matching to your selected grout, be sure to purchase the 100% silicon version Latasil matching caulk

Cut tip of caulking gun small at firstTry to apply minimal amount of sealant, but enough to fill entire void

A good caulking gun makes a world of differenceMy favorite is

Newborn 950-GTS

Spray windex (preferably windex without the dye) over entire joint

This will help prevent silicon from smearing on tile

Many time your finger is the best tool

Caulking tools can work great too

Helpful tools & materials:

Newborn 950-gts (drip-free caulking gun)

GE Kitchen & Bath Caulking

Latasil matching caulk

windex

Caulking tool kit

Box of rags

Review video on caulking corners of a tub surround

#80 Fill and caulk tub

Fill the tub before caulking the edges of tub

This ensure a long lasting caulk joint

Helpful tools & materials:

Newborn 950-gts (drip-free caulking gun) GE Kitchen & Bath Caulking Latasil matching caulk windex Caulking tool kit Box of rags

Review video on caulking tub

#81 Grout floor

💥 Grouting Floor 💥

Spectralock1 is one of the easiest grouts to useNo mixing required

No sealing required

A good grout float makes a difference

Marshalltown floats are a favorite of mine 👍

You won't regret using a good Ardex sponge

Helpful tools and Materials:

Spectralock1

Grout float (Marshalltown)

grout float margin trowel

Windex with vinegar

Microfiber clothes

Review video tutorial on grouting a tile floor

Day 7

#82 Replace Switches

💡Switches💡

There are many different wiring configurations that exist. The most basic option is having power supply coming into the main double switch box

After you find the power lead, Turn off power at breaker panel to bathroom

Much safer that way 😄

Helpful tools and materials:

Leviton single pole switches

Linesman stripping pliers

Klien electrical tester

Ideal Wire nuts

Klein screw driver set

electrical tape

pigtail ground line

Review video tutorial on replacing switches

#83 Install new GFI

🌟 New GFI🌟

With a new deep 18 cu inch box installed, this will be a breeze

A 15 amp GFI device is sufficient for bathrooms, but the actual line feeding GFI should be 20 amp wire

Review GFI installation video

#84 New breaker for GFI

✨ New Breaker for Panel ✨

There are many different manufacturers that make Breaker Panels

Some common ones are:

Murray(siemens)

Cuttlerhammer(eaton)

Square D

Leviton

You'll need to choose the correct breaker for the kind of panel you have

You'll need a 20 amp breaker for the dedicated GFI

Murray 20 amp breaker

Eaton 20 Amp breaker

Square D 20 amp breaker

GE 20 amp breaker

Leviton 20 amp breaker

Romex connectors

Helpful tools and materials:

Linesman stripping pliers

Klien electrical tester

Ideal Wire nuts

Klein screw driver set

Review Installation video of new breaker

#85 New Trap adapter for sink

With new PVC or ABS piping use a:

Spigot adapter (1 1/4")or

female trap adapter (1 1/4")

Helpful tools and materials:

Spigot adapter (1 1/4")

female trap adapter (1 1/4")

Milwaukee hole saw kit

Porter Cable Electric Planer

1/4 turn valves (3/8 thread)

T2 sealant

Milwaukee grinder

Montolit STL blade

water clear silicon

female trap adapter (1 1/4")

Review video tutorial on installing vanity

#86 Install Vanity

💥Vanity Installation💥

The hardest part is selecting a vanity 😆

The vanity in this video was a cheap one.....

It was a big box special

A great site I use often to browse and look for vanities is

Build.com

For corner installations like this, I recommend getting a cabinet with a flush end so that it can tuck into corner nicely

A lot of free-standing vanities have uneven sides that can provide gaps at the wall areaSome kits have filler pieces available to make up for this problem

Much easier getting a cabinet with straight edging for corner installations

Helpful tools and materials:

Spigot adapter (1 1/4")

Milwaukee hole saw kit

Porter Cable Electric Planer

1/4 turn valves (3/8 thread)

T2 sealant

Milwaukee grinder

Montolit STL blade

water clear silicon

Deburring tool / Depth gauge for sharkbites

Review video on vanity installation

#87 New shut-off valves

I recommend installing 1/4 turn shut off valves

The internal bearing will outlast other compression type valves

I personally love the Sharkbite shut off valves - easy to install and to remove

If you have 3/8" stub outs -these brasscraft shut-off valves work great

Helpful tools & materials

Channel locks

Sharkbite removal tool

Pipe sealant

Review installation of valves

#88 Install sink faucet

Most sink faucets are a straight forward installation

I personally like single hole faucets. Whats the point of having more to clean?

Here are a couple of my favorites:

Delta

Moen

Vigo

A great place to browse faucets is Build.com

Helpful tools and materials:

T2 sealant

water clear silicon

Ridgid sink wrench

Basin wrench

Review video on vanity installation

#89 Set sink top

Not much to this....but boy connecting faucet before setting makes things much easier!

Helpful tools and materials: