Additions

Cementitious backerboard speeds up the job, but start with a subfloor that is firm and flat by Dennis Hourany

Start with a sturdy wood underlayment, and plan the layout to get cut tiles in the back by Dennis Hourany

An earthy alternative to the cold, austere look of marble, limestone is easy to work with and maintain by Tom Meehan

Take the time to get your tiles tight and flat, and your shower will look as if it had been carved out of solid marble by Tom Meehan

Substituting backer board for the traditional mortar bed makes the job easier without sacrificing durability by Michael Byrne

Decorative tiles liven up a kitchen by Tom Meehan