How to Install a Porcelain Tile Mural (Step-by-Step Guide)
First off, it installs just like standard tile — no special tools or unusual methods required. Any qualified tile installer can handle it.
What makes the difference is the preparation.
Each mural we produce includes a layout system to guide installation. Depending on the project, this may include a printed layout map, individually numbered tiles, or both.
The layout map works like a jigsaw puzzle reference, showing how the full image comes together. At the same time, each tile is labeled, allowing the installer to place every piece accurately and in sequence — without guesswork.
Even without a printed map, the numbered system ensures the mural installs cleanly and correctly. The entire process is designed to be straightforward, organized, and reliable from start to finish.
The result is a perfectly aligned image across the wall, with the same durability and finish as standard porcelain tile.
See a real-world example of a custom porcelain tile mural installation in a corporate environment.
Step 2: Layout Planning
Before any adhesive is applied, the mural should be laid out and reviewed.
Using the provided layout system — whether a printed map, numbered tiles, or both — the installer can see how the full image comes together before installation begins.
This step allows for:
- Confirming tile positioning
- Checking orientation and alignment
- Ensuring the mural reads correctly as a complete image
For larger murals, a full layout (dry fit) is recommended. This helps avoid mistakes during installation and ensures a clean, accurate result.
Because each tile is clearly labeled, the process is straightforward — the installer simply follows the sequence and places each tile in its correct position.
This step is what ensures the final mural looks seamless and professionally installed, rather than misaligned or broken.
Every mural is prepared with installation in mind — not just printed.
That’s what allows standard tile installers to achieve precise, consistent results.
Step 3: Adhesive & Setting
Standard tile-setting methods apply. Your installer can use the appropriate mortar or adhesive based on the surface and environment, just as they would with any porcelain tile installation.
This type of mural can also be installed by a capable DIY homeowner who is comfortable working with tile.
The key is care during handling and cutting.
Because each tile is part of a complete image, chipping a tile or making an incorrect cut can affect the final result. While replacement tiles can be produced if needed, they are treated as a new production run.
Due to normal variations in firing and dye lots, exact color/colour matching is not guaranteed on replacements, and additional charges may apply.
For best results, take care during installation — especially when cutting edge pieces — to preserve the integrity of the full image.
Questions & Answers —
Installing Printed Tile Murals
Installation - how do we install custom printed pictured tile?
We’re often asked:
“Is there anything special we need to do to install these?”
The answer is straightforward — install it like normal tile.
The one thing to be mindful of is cutting and layout planning.
Before installation, it’s important to dry lay your mural and confirm positioning. Because each tile is part of a complete image, you want to avoid cutting printed tiles wherever possible.
What If a Tile Is Damaged or Cut Incorrectly?
Printed porcelain tiles can be cut, just like standard tile — however, we strongly recommend avoiding cuts on printed pieces whenever possible.
The reason is simple:
If a tile is chipped, cracked, or cut incorrectly during installation, it cannot simply be swapped out like standard tile. Each piece is part of a complete image.
Replacement tiles can be reproduced if needed, but they are treated as a new production run. Due to normal variations in firing and dye lots, exact color matching is not guaranteed, and additional costs will apply.
For this reason, many installers plan ahead by:
- Designing the mural to fit full tile dimensions
- Using plain or matching tiles around the outer edges (a border or “frame”)
- Avoiding cuts within the printed image area
The goal is to install the mural cleanly the first time and preserve the integrity of the full image.
Think of each tile as part of a finished photograph — not just a replaceable piece.
Easy steps here and video's here to follow on how to do it.
Just follow along our steps with video and photographs so you can get a real good idea on how our pictured tile can be installed a shower wall.
Furthermore you will find that the Installation Of Printed Pictured Tile is not any different than how tile is installed normally.
Here you can see the photo above, how we gutted the wall down to the studs. In this case we have a bathtub that we wanted to retain so we obviously covered and protected the tub with a tarp. As you hammer away at the old tile and drywall it gets dusty and big pieces fly off, so protect yourself and the surrounding area.
Your Installation Of Printed Pictured Tile Is half way done!
This same installation approach is used in real corporate projects, including the Wavetronix mural installation.
Our porcelain tile murals are used in corporate, hospitality, and institutional environments. View a recent Wavetronix mural installation to see real-world results.
Planning a Porcelain Tile Mural?
If you're considering a custom printed tile mural, the most important step is getting the layout, sizing, and image right from the beginning.
We produce fully mapped, kiln-fired porcelain tile murals designed for clean, accurate installation — whether for a shower wall, feature wall, commercial space, or large-scale project.
- Installed like standard tile
- Numbered and mapped for accuracy
- Permanent, kiln-fired, and weather-resistant
- Suitable for residential and commercial use
To get started, send us:
- Your artwork (logo, photo, or design)
- Approximate size of the mural
- Where it will be installed (shower, wall, outdoor, etc.)
We’ll review your project and respond with next steps and pricing — usually within 24 hours.
Call Toll-Free:
1-855-410-8797
Text Us:
Send a Text Message
Email:
info@picturedtile.com
Or upload your artwork here:
www.allpictured.com