For a tub surround only install the backerboard and tile 12 inches above the tub.
How to install ceramic wall tile around a bathtub.
Check if you need to adjust this mark to avoid laying slivers of tile at the top and bottom.
Diycrew hrvdiy renovision step by step tutorial how to install wall tile in any shower with any size bathroom tile including how to install tile in a nic.
Fill the gap between the tile and the tub with caulk.
Follow the order shown in the diagram to snap the rest of the lines.
To tile around a tub or shower start by measuring the height of the back wall from the lip of the tub to the top of the area to be tiled.
Then apply a generous amount of thin set to the bottom bathtub tile and position it 1 8 in.
If the tub is level start with a full tile at its rim.
When tiling around a tub mark the first layout line at the vertical edge of the tile next to the tub.
Apply it to the wall with the bottom edge about 1 4 in.
This video will show you how to set tile around a tub.
The best approach when installing cement board or other tile backer around a tub is to keep the cement board out of the lip area.