Skim Coating 101: Mastering The Art Of Cement Skimming Over Shower Tiles

Skim coating cement over shower tiles is a great way to update your bathroom without the hassle of tile removal. This process involves applying a thin layer of cement-based overlay, such as SureCrete, directly on top of your existing shower tiles. Not only does it give your shower a fresh, new look, but it also offers a seamless and grout-free finish that is easy to clean and maintain. With the right products and preparation, you can achieve a smooth and waterproof surface that transforms your shower into a stylish and functional space.

Prepare the room

Before you begin skim coating, it is crucial to prepare the room thoroughly. Here are the steps you should follow:

Step 1: Clean the Tiles

Start by giving the tiles a thorough clean to remove any dirt, grime, or soap scum buildup. You can use a mild detergent or tile cleaner, along with a scrub brush or sponge, to scrub the surface. Once you've finished scrubbing, rinse the tiles with clean water and allow them to dry completely.

Step 2: Inspect and Repair Tiles

Check the tiles for any loose or damaged tiles. If you find any, use a chisel, putty knife, or tile pry bar to remove them. Clean the area thoroughly after removing the damaged tiles, and replace them if necessary. If there are any cracks or chips in the tiles, repair them using a tile filler or epoxy resin. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing and applying the filler or resin, and use a putty knife or trowel to smooth it out and blend it with the surrounding tiles. Allow the filler to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.

Step 3: Sand the Surface

To ensure a smooth and even surface for the skim coat to adhere to, use 120- or 150-grit sandpaper to gently sand the tiles. Sand in a circular motion to achieve an even finish. This process will help remove any imperfections, rough spots, or high points on the tiles. After sanding, wipe down the tiles with a clean, damp cloth to remove any sanding dust.

Step 4: Cover or Remove Fixtures

If you're working in a shower, it's important to uninstall any fixtures that may get in the way. If removal is not possible, cover them with strong grout tape to protect them from the skim coating material.

Step 5: Wear Appropriate Clothing and Safety Gear

Skim coating can be a messy process, so be sure to wear clothes that cover your skin. Put on a pair of safety glasses to protect your eyes from any flying particles or dust. Additionally, consider wearing a dust mask to protect your respiratory system from inhaling dust and a pair of gloves to protect your hands.

Step 6: Prepare the Area

Cover any surrounding areas that you don't want to get splattered with mud. You can use masking tape or plastic sheets to protect nearby walls, floors, or fixtures. Open the windows to improve ventilation and reduce the concentration of dust particles in the air.

Once you've completed these steps, your room is prepared, and you can move on to mixing and applying the skim coat. Remember to always follow the manufacturer's instructions and take the necessary safety precautions when working with skim coating materials.

Make the mix

Before you begin, make sure you're wearing appropriate clothing and safety gear, such as safety glasses. You'll also need a bucket, a colour additive pack, a SureTex bag, and water.

Start by adding a small amount of water to the colour additive pack in the bucket and blend it together. Then, mix in about a quarter of the SureTex bag. The mixture should have a consistency similar to pancake batter. If it's too thick, add a little more water, but be careful not to make it soupy or runny.

Let the mixture sit for a few minutes after the initial mixing to allow the water to fully absorb into the powder. Then, give it a final mix before you start applying it to your shower tiles.

If you're skim coating walls, you can add a little lime to the mixture. This will create a stickier compound that will adhere better to the tile surface. The amount of lime you add is up to you, but a general rule of thumb is to use a couple of handfuls of lime for a five-gallon bucket of skim-coat mixture.

Remember, you want to avoid creating air bubbles in your mixture, so use a low-speed drill for mixing.

Apply the mix to the walls

Now that you have prepared the room and made your mix, it's time to apply the concrete coating to your shower tiles. This process can be done in two ways: using a hand tool or a hopper gun.

If you are using a hand tool, such as a drywall knife or trowel, start by dipping the tool into your bucket of mixed concrete. Begin at the bottom of the wall and spread the mix in an upward motion. It is best to have a helper for this process, and you should be able to cover about 100 square feet in an hour. The more you go over it, the smoother the finish will be. Keep in mind that you have a limited working time of about 15 to 20 minutes before the mix dries.

For a textured look, apply the mix to random spots on the walls rather than working across the room from left to right. You can also use a hopper gun to spray the mix onto the walls. This method can be messier, so be sure to wear protective clothing and safety glasses.

Once the concrete coating has been applied, you will need to smooth out any spots that are too bumpy with a drywall knife. Keep in mind that the coating alone is not waterproof, so you will need to apply a sealer once it has dried.

Smooth out bumps

Skim coating is a technique that involves applying thin layers of joint compound to existing drywall or plaster surfaces. In the context of smoothing out bumps on cement-covered shower tiles, the process typically involves the following steps:

Prepare the Surface

Before applying the skim coat, ensure that the cement-covered shower tiles are properly prepared. This includes cleaning the surface to remove any dirt, debris, or contaminants that may affect adhesion. It is also important to address any existing damage or imperfections on the tiles, such as tiny dimples or bumps, as they may be difficult to correct once the skim coat is applied.

Choose the Right Tools and Materials

For smoothing out bumps, you will need a drywall compound or joint compound, a trowel or putty knife, and optionally, a damp sponge for touch-ups. Ensure that you have adequate ventilation when working with chemical products and always wear proper protective gear, such as gloves and goggles.

Apply the Skim Coat

Prepare the joint compound according to the manufacturer's instructions. Using a paint roller, apply an even layer of the compound to the surface of the cement-covered shower tiles. Follow the roller with a trowel or putty knife to smooth out any ridges or bumps created by the roller. Continue this process until you achieve the desired smoothness and consistency across the entire surface.

Allow it to Dry

Once you have finished applying the skim coat, allow it to dry completely. The drying time may vary depending on factors such as temperature and humidity, but it is typically recommended to wait at least 24 hours before proceeding to the next step.

Sand and Refine

After the skim coat has dried, inspect the surface for any rough spots or bumps that may still be present. Use sandpaper to gently sand down any uneven areas, being careful not to sand too deeply and expose the underlying tile. If necessary, apply additional thin layers of the joint compound to areas that require further smoothing.

Seal the Surface (Optional)

If you are using a cement-based product like SureCrete, consider sealing the surface with a waterproofing sealer. This step is especially important if the skim-coated surface is in an area that is frequently exposed to water, such as a shower. Choose a sealer that is specifically designed for use with concrete or cementitious products.

By following these steps, you can effectively smooth out bumps and create a consistent, smooth finish on your cement-covered shower tiles. Remember that skim coating is a labour-intensive process that requires patience and attention to detail. If you are unsure or uncomfortable with the process, it is recommended to consult with an experienced professional.

Seal the finish

After applying a skim coat of cement over your shower tiles, it is important to seal the finish to protect it from moisture damage and ensure its longevity. Here are the steps you can follow to properly seal the finish:

• Choose the Right Sealer: Select a sealer that is specifically designed for concrete or cement surfaces. You can opt for a sealer from the same brand as your cement mix, such as SureCrete's sealer options, or go for a trusted concrete sealer like Thompson's concrete sealer.
• Prepare the Surface: Before applying the sealer, ensure that the skim coat is completely dry and free of any debris or dust. Clean the surface with a damp cloth or brush to remove any residue. It is crucial to have a clean and dry surface for the sealer to adhere properly.
• Apply the Sealer: Follow the instructions on the sealer product you have chosen. Typically, you will use a brush, roller, or sprayer to apply the sealer evenly across the skim-coated surface. Ensure you have adequate ventilation during the application process.
• Allow it to Dry: After applying the sealer, give it enough time to dry completely. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended drying time. Good ventilation will help speed up the drying process.
• Apply Multiple Coats: Depending on the product and your specific needs, you may need to apply multiple coats of sealer. Some sealers require two or three coats for maximum protection. Follow the specific instructions on your chosen product and allow adequate drying time between coats.
• Smooth Out Imperfections: Once the sealer has dried, inspect the surface for any bumps or imperfections. Use a fine-grit sandpaper, such as 120-grit or 100-grit sandpaper, to gently smooth out any raised areas or imperfections. Sand in the direction of the skim coat for best results.

By following these steps and allowing adequate drying time between each step, you will effectively seal the finish of your skim-coated shower tiles, resulting in a durable and waterproof surface. Remember to wear protective gear, such as gloves and a respirator, during the sealing process to ensure your safety.

Frequently asked questions