Mounting a Towel Bar On Ceramic Tile

Tape the fixtures in place

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Use caulk as glue

Spread caulk over the back of the fixture, then hold it in place with plenty of tape. Caulk the edges of the fixture after the caulk behind the fixture sets up. If possible, use caulk that matches the grout color.

In the past, ceramic fixtures such as towel bar holders and soap dishes were cemented right to the wall and the tile was fitted around them. Now most are designed to be glued to the face of the tile with 100 percent silicone caulk. The only tricky part is holding them in place until the silicone sets up.

First thoroughly clean the tile with denatured alcohol. Lay a bead of caulk on the back of the fixture, push it into place and secure it with masking tape. Let the caulk stiffen for an hour or so and then add caulk around the perimeter. Use a wet finger or rag to smooth the caulk joint. Let it sit overnight before you pull the tape, then caulk any edges hidden by the tape. Remember to put the rod in before setting the second fixture.