Song Remodel
Living room with a dark fireplace wall, green chairs and full-height glazing

A GUIDE TO YOUR CHOICES

Tile & shower finishes · look beyond the sample

SELECTION GUIDE

Subway tile & mosaic tile

Compare layout, grout color and edge trim together. Smaller pieces create a different joint pattern from larger wall formats.

Often referenced

Benefits & considerations

Confirm the tile’s approved use, wet-area suitability and floor performance with the supplier. A shape or style name does not identify its composition or slip characteristics.

Before installation

Confirm the exact product and model, dimensions, substrate, compatible assembly, included and excluded work, and supply responsibilities in writing.

Care & maintenance

Use the tile and grout manufacturers’ cleaning instructions. Inspect joints and sealant; ongoing leakage needs investigation rather than more surface caulk.

Our take · a planning perspective

Approve a tile-and-grout sample together. Resolve drains, slopes, niches and edge details before confirming the layout.

SELECTION GUIDE

Backer board & waterproofing

The finished tile is only the visible layer. The backer, waterproofing, drain connection and movement details must work as one approved assembly.

Often referenced

Benefits & considerations

Records reference cement backer board, RedGard and hot-mop work. These are not interchangeable specifications; confirm the exact product and compatible assembly.

Before installation

Confirm the exact product and model, dimensions, substrate, compatible assembly, included and excluded work, and supply responsibilities in writing.

Care & maintenance

Keep assembly and product documents for later repairs. A backer board brand name alone does not establish the waterproofing method.

Our take · a planning perspective

Prioritize a documented wet-area assembly over a decorative upgrade when the underlying details are unresolved.

RESOURCES

Keep the complete scope in view

Items without an identified product, finish or rating require a separate specification.

Related materials & components

Ceramic and marble tile, larger wall formats, grout and sealant, shower glass and pans, tubs and fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) wall panels

RESOURCES

Next checks & references

Frequency reflects reviewed scope wording, not market popularity or completed installations. Distinctive options carry a separate editorial tag. Our selection perspective is general planning guidance; a project recommendation requires review.

James Hardie — backer board product information

Manufacturer reference · checked November 9, 2026. Confirm the instructions for the actual product.

Explore the guide

PLANNING QUESTIONS

Before you begin

Does tile make a shower waterproof?

Tile alone does not establish a waterproof shower assembly. Confirm the specified waterproofing, drain connections, penetrations and required inspection or testing for the project.

Can the same tile be used on a shower floor and wall?

Only when the selected product is suitable for both uses. Ask the supplier to confirm the wet-area and floor application; appearance alone is not evidence of suitability.

How do I choose a grout color and tile layout?

Review a physical tile-and-grout sample and a layout showing corners, edges and cut pieces. Compare the cleaning needs and joint pattern as well as the color.

Is every cement backer board waterproof?

Do not assume so. Product formulations differ, including waterproof variants. Confirm the exact board and its installation instructions, seams, fasteners and compatible waterproofing details.

What needs to be decided before shower tile work starts?

Confirm the approved assembly, drain and slope, tile selection, edges, niches, fixtures, glass clearances and inspection responsibilities. Resolve customer-supplied items before ordering.

CONTACT SONG REMODEL

Discuss the choices for your project

Email Song Remodel about the space you want to change. Include your city and the type of work you have in mind. English and Korean inquiries are welcome.

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DESIGN DETAILS

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