Tiling over tiles isn’t common practice, but it is an option to consider for your kitchen or bathroom if you are wanting to save time and money.
Removing old tiles is a messy and time-consuming job; however, tiling over tiles needs to be done properly; otherwise, you’ll end up with a job that needs to be redone. It’s important to consider how long you intend on having this tile job last, a fresh installation will always ensure the longest life of your tiles. However, there are times when tiling over tiles is practical.
Can you tile over tiles?
The short answer is yes, you can. It’s the perfect solution for a quick update. However, there are many factors that you need to consider before deciding if this is the right solution for you and your bathroom or kitchen renovation.
Things to consider
· Laying new tiles over old tiles will increase your flooring height which can cause problems if the new floor level blocks doors and cupboards from opening and closing. Unless you’re planning on replacing these, chances are they have been levelled to the old flooring height.
· If the new height of your flooring becomes too high, you need to be mindful that this may become a trip hazard, especially in homes that are catered to older people.
· Your current flooring must be in good condition. Tiling over tiles that retain moisture, or are already cracked, is something that should be avoided. It will end up causing future issues and repairs.
· When selecting new wall tiles, choose an option that is thin. Remember, when tiling over tilings, your walls will now need to hold double the weight.
· If your current surface is uneven, it is important that you level it out. Otherwise, you will be left with a less-than-ideal result. Depending on how uneven the surface is, you may want to consider removing the tiles and starting from new. Otherwise, you will be more prone to cracks, moisture and mould.
How to: Tiling over existing tiles
Firstly, check the state of your current tiles. Ensure that you don’t have any loose tiles by tapping each of them and wait to hear a hollow sound. If you hear that, you are able to lay tiles over the top of them, but you don’t want to have more than approximately 5% of hollow areas. If you think there is a lot of loose tiles, it would be recommended that you replace those tiles prior to commencing work.
Prepare the area
Before you start laying your new tiles, ensure your existing flooring has been cleaned thoroughly, this is an important step. Use a vacuum cleaner to collect any dirt, dust or sand and then wash the tiles with warm water and detergent, rinse well and allow the flooring to dry properly.
Now is a good time to check to see if your flooring is uneven in any areas. You are able to level areas with glue and should consider applying a primer which will allow for a stronger bond between the two levels of tiles.
Laying your tiles
When you begin laying tiles over tiles, it is best to lay them one by one. Although it seems tedious doing it this way, this will ensure that your tiles are perfectly lined up.
Set each tile on the adhesive and press firmly. Repeat this process until all tiles are in place. If your original tiles were in good condition, you can apply adhesive directly on the back of your new tile. For tiles that were a little worse for wear, adhesive on both the old and new tiles is recommended.
Finishing your tiling job
Apply grout between the tiles, this will protect your newly tiled floor or walls from moisture and mould. You can purchase an already mixed grout for your local hardware store, which is easy to apply and saves the effort of mixing the grout together yourself.
With all our ‘How to Blogs’, we recommend that you use this as a guide only and do further research by visiting the HIA website. The HIA Website provides expert knowledge in all areas of building and home renovation.