How to Install Cement Tile in a Bathroom
By Zia Tile | Handmade Artisanal Tile and Stone from Around the | Published: 2026-10-27
Category: How-to Guides
Learn the key steps for installing handmade cement tile in a bathroom, including subfloor prep, sealing, cutting, and grouting tips for lasting results.
Quick answer
To install cement tile in a bathroom, start with a flat, clean subfloor, seal the tiles before grouting, and use a flexible thin-set mortar to accommodate moisture changes.
Why cement tile needs extra care in bathrooms
Handmade cement tiles are porous and can absorb moisture if not properly sealed. In a bathroom, where humidity and spills are common, sealing both before and after installation is essential to prevent staining and preserve the tile's color. The natural tonal variation in cement tiles (as seen in the Aubergine 2x8 subway tile) adds character, but it also means each tile may behave slightly differently during installation. Plan for extra tile to account for cuts and pattern matching.
Step-by-step installation guide
- Prepare the subfloor: Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level. Use a self-leveling compound if needed. For bathroom floors, install a waterproof membrane before laying tile. Common mistake: skipping the waterproof membrane. Moisture can wick up from below and damage the cement over time.
- Apply a sealer before installation: Seal all faces of each cement tile with a penetrating sealer. Let dry completely before handling. This prevents the thin-set from staining the tile during installation. Checkpoint: test a single tile first to confirm the sealer doesn't alter the color.
- Mix and apply thin-set mortar: Use a flexible, polymer-modified thin-set mortar. Mix according to the manufacturer's instructions. Apply with a notched trowel (1/4-inch notch for 8x8 tiles, 3/16-inch for 2x8 subway tiles). Common mistake: using too large a notch can cause mortar to ooze up between tiles, making cleanup difficult.
- Set the tiles and maintain spacing: Press each tile firmly into the mortar, twisting slightly to ensure full coverage. Use plastic spacers (1/8 inch for most cement tiles) to keep joints even. Check level frequently with a straight edge. Checkpoint: clean any mortar from the tile surface immediately with a damp sponge before it dries.
- Grout and seal again: Wait 24–48 hours for the thin-set to cure. Use a sanded grout for joints wider than 1/8 inch. After grouting and cleaning, apply a second coat of sealer to the entire floor to protect against moisture and stains. Common mistake: grouting before the thin-set is fully cured can cause tiles to shift. Patience is key.
Cement tiles that work well in bathrooms
- Pomelo Zeppelin 8x8: The Pomelo Zeppelin 8x8 is a handmade cement tile with ovate, midcentury modern forms, suitable for bathrooms, showers, and flooring. Its larger format reduces grout lines, making it easier to clean in a wet environment while still offering a distinctive pattern.
Pomelo Zeppelin 8x8 - Aubergine 2x8: The Aubergine 2x8 subway cement tile has a matte silky finish with subtle tonal variation, ideal for bathrooms and showers. The elongated subway shape works well for small bathroom walls or shower surrounds, and the matte surface hides water spots better than gloss.
Aubergine 2x8
