Hidden access panel in tiled shower wall?
Tiling a walk-in shower and want an access panel for the mixing valve and diverter. Needs to be tileable or at least accept thinset and tile without cracking, and open without tools. Has anyone tiled over one successfully?
10 Paparan
Tiling over access panels works if you choose the right type. Go for a model with a completely flat removable door and no raised lip—makes tiling seamless. I used thinset to bond tile directly to the panel face after roughing it up a bit for adhesion. The latch is push-style and recessed so it doesn't interfere with grout lines. After grouting and sealing it looks like a solid wall until you press the corner. I put in a sturdy access panel (14×14) behind the tiles last year and it's held up through daily showers with zero issues. Test the fit dry before tiling to avoid surprises.