How to Put Tile on an Acrylic Shower Pan

Prepare the shower pan by roughing its surface with 40 to 60 grit sandpaper. Install the sandpaper into a palm sander and sand until the acrylic surface is rough to the touch.

Clean the prepared surface with a damp cloth. Tape-off the entrance of the shower drain with a sheet of cardboard. Cut a sheet of cardboard to fit directly over the shower drain, and secure with duct tape.

Mix an epoxy thin set mortar. Epoxy thin set mortar typically comes in three components, which include mortar powder, hardener and resin. Follow the mixing instructions of the epoxy thin set mortar.

Spread the epoxy thin set mortar onto the shower pan surface with the notched edge of a trowel. Work in small sections to prevent the mortar from setting before the tiles are in place.

Place a small wooden or plastic spacer between each tile to help maintain straight grout lines. After all the tiles have been installed, remove the spacers before the mortar hardens.

Firmly set the tiles by placing a wooden board over them and gently tapping the top of the board with a mallet. Allow the tiles to set overnight before moving onto the next step.

Mix unsanded epoxy-based grout according to the directions on the package. Epoxy-based grout is resistant to moisture and staining, which makes it ideal for shower pan tiles.

Apply a liberal amount of the grout over the newly set tile with a rubber float. Coat the entire surface of the shower pan.

Clean excess grout off the surface of the tiles with a damp sponge. Allow the grout to fully harden. Test the grout by sticking a toothpick between tiles. If the toothpick enters the grout, it has not fully cured, if the toothpick cannot penetrate the grout move onto the next step.

Remove any leftover grout residue from the surface of the tiles with a soft cloth, and enjoy your newly tiled acrylic shower pan.