Tile removal will likely not leave the substrate behind 100% intact. Meaning if there is a bonded waterproofing membrane over the cement board, you could damage and possibly introduce leaking issues where none existed before.

Since you didnt state any other issues except cosmetic, if you really want to change the look.... there are tile primer product that you can apply directly to the tile, so you can tile over the exising tile.

Before you decide to do that you need to determine if you have enough depth for the plumbing fixture to accomodate the extra thickness.

And figure out how to handle the exposed edge transitions.

I would have a reputable tile company in your area and give you a price for tile over vs.a complete redo.

The advice I would give you depends on how long you are going to be in your house and the allocated budget for your project. Sometimes it is better to remodel the whole space if costs allow if you really want a cohesive design.

But I also subscribe to the 'if it isn't broke then don't 'fix' it theory.

Thank you. Do you know a reputable tile company in the Portland, OR. area?

I like what you have. I would change the hardware and you will be amazed at the transformation it will make!

Thank you.

I dont know the Portland area, we are by Tacoma, WA. Try going to Oregon Tile & Marble or Dal Tile or one of the other tile wholesalers in you area and you could probably get a few recommendations

Thank you.

Great idea, had not thought of this. Thank you.

I don't recommend regrouting, it's only a temporary fix that will not last long before giving you problems. If you aren't having leakage problems now then you will likely create them by messing with the grout and/or tile. The only sound way to make any changes to this is to demo it completely and start over using proper building and waterproofing techniques to ensure a water tight enclosure that will last for decades. It's also an opportunity to make the space look exactly how you want. If you can't afford a complete remodel right now then waiting/saving until you can would be a better plan for your funds than doing patch work.

Ok, thanks. Appreciate the input.

Don't open that can of worms! Keep all the tile the same until your'e ready to gut.

A friend used Resolve (I think that's what she said) to clean her tile floors with amazing results.

Give it a really good cleaning and remove the "products".

If you attempt to remove portions of tile, you most likely will destroy any waterproofing that exists. In a short period of time, you will see the effects of water getting behind the tile and all the damage that can do. Then you will have to tear completely out and start all over - which means you just threw away money on an update. Either do nothing or tear the whole thing out.

Ok, thanks.

If some of the water protection is damaged when removing some of the tile, couldn't the damaged be repaired? Also, we are thinking about removing the tile floor and replacing it. Wouldn't the same damage might occur? Then what?

No you cannot replace it effectively. It will be compromised and there is no repair. Same is true with the floor. Waterproofing is a compound put over the entire shower floor, curb and up the walls that seals water from penetrating through to the cement board. If any part of the waterproofing is damaged or disturbed, it is no longer intact. IMHO, you are just asking for a disaster by trying to remove a portion of tile. And it is very expensive to then come back and take it all out and start over. In the long run, it is better to redo the whole thing at one time and do it right.

Cut a large section out of a zip lock bag and then patching it. Take that bag and another that has not been compromised and fill them both with water. Which bag will you trust more to not leak over time? Any breach of a showers properly installed watertight seal will almost always not be as effective once patched. If you're willing to risk your time and investment by replacing only part of the tile and loosing that investment if it leaks and has to be redone then go for it. That's the only way to find out if your plan will work.

Ok, thank you.

Good advice. Thanks.

When I look at your shower I don't think "ugly tile" I think "this tile needs a good cleaning and all the spray bottles and should be put in a big plastic bucket with a handle so you can carry it in, clean and carry it out." That's what looks bad about your shower.

We have tried to clean it w/o success. Do you know of a cleaner that I should use. Thank you for your help.

Have you gone to a tile store and asked for a product specific to cleaning tile? TEC used to make a product called LIKE NEW. Not sure if it is still available but something should be. Be sure to follow directions regarding wearing protective gear and for adequate ventilation.

Thank you for your help.

You might try Resolve--someone used it on tile floors with amazing results.

Thank you.