I recently had a shower renovation completed, and my contractor used Liquid Nails to install the ceramic tiles on the walls. He claims it's the best option, but I've read conflicting information. Some sources say Liquid Nails isn't recommended for moist areas like showers because it can lead to mold and potentially cause the tiles to fall off. On the other hand, I found out about a specific version of Liquid Nails that's water and mold resistant. What's the deal? I'm really worried after the job is done.
3 Answers
I don’t think anything in tiling suggests using Liquid Nails for tiles. Stick with adhesives made for tiling, like Type 1 or Type 2. If your contractor chose Liquid Nails, that’s a big red flag about their knowledge and skill level. You might want to consider having a professional take a second look to ensure everything is safe and sound.
Honestly, you should never use Liquid Nails for attaching tiles in a shower. It's just not safe. Tiles should be set with mortar or specialized adhesives designed for that environment. If your contractor suggested Liquid Nails, you need to seriously reconsider their qualifications. Drywall isn’t even suitable for shower walls; you should use cement board instead, which can hold up against moisture when done correctly.
So basically, it sounds like you’re saying the whole job might need to be redone, right?
Definitely! If he didn’t use the right materials or methods, that could lead to serious issues down the line.
I came across a situation where someone used Liquid Nails for a sink installation, and trust me, it wasn’t pretty. When dealing with moisture-heavy areas like a shower, your best bet is to stick with recognized tile adhesives or thinset. Liquid Nails just doesn’t hold up well, and it can create a messy situation if you ever need to replace the tiles later on.
That’s a scary thought! Hopefully, your contractor knows what they’re doing—keeping my fingers crossed for you.

Good advice! Better to be safe now than sorry later.