The wrong tile can fail on a shower wall much sooner than you might expect. The tile to avoid in your shower walls is small tile, because it needs a lot of grout, and grout is the main issue with tile besides installation error.
Below, we explain why small tiles fail, why we recommend large format tile instead, and which solid surface materials make a shower the easiest to clean.
Why Small Tiles Fail Most Often
Of all the tile options for a shower, small tiles fail the most. Each one needs grout around it, so a wall of small tiles carries a lot of grout.
Grout Is the Weak Point
The more tiles you have, the more grout your shower walls carry. Grout is the main issue with tile besides installation error, so a design that uses less of it gives you fewer chances for failure.
Other Reasons Shower Tile Fails
Tile size is only one part of the picture. Shower tile can also fail for three other reasons:
- Improper waterproofing behind the tile
- Improper support for the tile
- Lack of maintenance over time
Pro Tip: Tile only holds up as well as the work behind it. Installation error, improper waterproofing, and poor support can cause any tile to fail.
The Tile to Avoid in Your Shower Walls and What to Choose Instead
If you have your heart set on tile, we always point clients toward large format tile. It addresses the grout problem directly.
Why Large Format Tile Performs Better
Large format tiles are our preferred option for two reasons:
- Less grout: Bigger tiles mean fewer grout lines across the wall.
- More bonded surface: Each tile has more surface area adhered with mortar.
Tile Designs to Avoid in Your Shower Walls
We recommend minimal borders and no fancy designs. Simple goes a long way in terms of both look and durability.
Key Takeaway: If you choose tile, go with large format tile, minimal borders, and a simple design for a cleaner look that lasts.
Need expert help with your shower remodel? Contact The Shower Company for a free consultation.
When a Solid Surface Shower Makes More Sense
Tile is not your only option for shower walls. If easy cleaning is your top priority, a solid surface material is the better choice.
Onyx and Acrylic for Easy Cleaning
If you really want an easy-to-clean shower, always go with a solid surface material such as onyx or acrylic. This is the option we recommend for homeowners who want the simplest upkeep.
How Your Options Compare
Here is a quick side-by-side look at the three options we discussed:
| Option | Key Detail | When We Recommend It |
| Small tile | Requires a lot of grout, which is the main issue with tile | We advise against it |
| Large format tile | Less grout and more surface area adhered with mortar | When you really want tile |
| Solid surface (onyx or acrylic) | Easiest to clean | When easy cleaning is your top priority |
Pro Tip: If easy cleaning matters more to you than the look of tile, skip tile and go with onyx or acrylic.
Choose Shower Walls Built to Last
The right material comes down to how much grout you want to live with and how easy you want cleaning to be.
The Short Answer
Small tiles fail most often because of the grout they require. Large format tile with minimal borders and a simple design is the better choice if you want tile, and solid surface materials like onyx or acrylic are the easiest to keep clean.
Schedule Your Consultation
Ready to plan a shower that lasts? Call or schedule a consultation with The Shower Company today, and our team will help you steer clear of tile to avoid issues in your shower walls.
