One of the frequently asked questions by most customers is whether you can tile over tiles. Tiling over tiles is possible under suitable conditions.
Hence, in all situations, this method will not work. Tiling over tiling makes the process fast, as you will not remove the old tiles from the surface.
It is best to know in detail about tiling over tiles before you start work.
The best adhesives for tiling over tiles are Ultra Tile ProFlex SPES Standard Set Flexible S1 Adhesive, Kerakoll H40 Gel Adhesive Standard Set S1, and Benfer BenferFlex +S1 High Yield Standard Set Flexible Adhesive.
Although many experts do not recommend tiling over tiles, this method has many benefits.
Hence, by following the instructions, you can obtain a premium finish. This blog will provide some interesting facts about tiling over tiles.
Is Tiling Over Tile Possible?
Is this the first time you have come across tiling over tiles?
Well, you’ve found the right place! We have researched on tiling over tiles and shared some must-know tips and tricks.
Yes, tiling on top of tiles is possible, but only under suitable conditions. Therefore, you must consider several factors before deciding whether you will be tiling over tiles.
Tiling over tiles primarily minimizes the workload since removing old tiling and preparing the subfloor for retiling is messy.
Fortunately, if the place is appropriate for tiling over tiles, you can skip most of the enormous work.
Factors to Consider When Tiling Over Tiles
It is necessary to scrutinize the existing tiles.
Removing tiles from the surface is better if the tiles are damaged, as tiling over the damaged tiles will not be a good idea. Also, you must ensure the tiles stick well to the substrate.
If there are any loose tiles, remove them carefully and bond them well using tile adhesive. If the tile is over-aged and not in good condition, it is best to remove it before tiling.
Furthermore, if the previously installed tiles are uneven, tiling over them will also result in an uneven finish.
Hence, considering these factors, you can decide whether your tiled surface is appropriate for tiling over.
If you need more clarification about the condition of your tiled surface, you can get the help of a professional.
3 Best Adhesives for Tiling Over Tiles
Before discussing how to tile over tiles, let’s look at the best type of adhesive that you can use to bond tile over tile.
Here are the three best tile adhesives you can use when tiling over tiles.
Ultra Tile ProFlex SPES Standard Set Flexible S1 Adhesive
This is a high-quality tile adhesive with enhanced properties and excellent bonding strength. Also, it is highly flexible and suitable for different surfaces, including tile on tile.
This tile adhesive comes in both white and grey colors. Moreover, this product has an extended open time and pot life.
Kerakoll H40 Gel Adhesive Standard Set S1
This product is a white adhesive with high adhesion and deformability. The adhesive has high performance and is long-lasting. Kerakol adhesive is a go-to product for many situations; hence, it is suitable for tiling over tiles.
Therefore, this is a guaranteed solution, as the H40 gel performs well on all substrates and materials.
Benfer BenferFlex +S1 High Yield Standard Set Flexible Adhesive
The Benfer adhesive is an extra-white color and a multi-purpose bonding agent. Many people prefer choosing this adhesive as it is very easy to use.
This product is highly reliable and suitable for tiling over the old wall or floor tiles. This product is safe to use even upon contact and will not cause eye or skin irritations.
Important: A suitable tile adhesive is essential to ensure durability and reliability. When tiling over tiles, it is best to choose S1 tile adhesive as it provides high workability.
Essential Tools to Tile Over Tiles
The following are essential tools for DIY tiling:
- Notched and straight-edge trowel
- Pencil
- Tape measure
- Drill
- Bucket
- Grout float
- Grout finishing tool
- Tile spacer
- Long spirit level
- Tile cutter
- Sponge
Essential Material for Tiling Over Tiles
Apart from the tools, you will need the following materials when tiling over tiles:
- Sandpaper belts
- Ceramic tiles
- Tile adhesive
- Latex bonding liquid
- Tile grout
How to Tile Over Tiles
After ensuring the suitability of tiling over existing tiles, you can start the retiling project if it is safe.
If you plan to DIY the process, the following is a step-by-step guide on tiling over existing tiles.
Step 1: Prepare the Surface
Remove and retile all the loose tiles, and replace them if damaged.
Next, clean the surface thoroughly using sugar soap and warm water. Now coat the surface with acrylic primer by adding some sand to it.
Step 2: Choose the Right Tile
Tiling over the existing tiles differs from tiling on the subfloor. Hence, when choosing the tile, you must select a light and thin tile with high durability.
Especially when you work on surfaces like plasterboard backers, the weight of the tiles is one of the crucial factors you must consider. Therefore, ceramic tiles are the most suitable option.
Step 3: Purchase the Best Adhesive
As mentioned, you must select S1 tile adhesive when tiling over tiles. You can refer to the best tile adhesives section for suitable adhesives.
Step 4: Planning
Check the size of the surface, take the required measurements, and plan your project before starting work.
Step 5: Install the Tiles
Now, apply the adhesive to the notched trowel and install the tile.
Carefully align each tile and use the tile spacer to obtain even grout lines.
Step 6: Grout
Like regular tiling, you must grout the gaps when tiling over tiles. You can use a grout float for grout, and to neaten the line, use finishing tools.
The Types of Tiles Suitable for Tiling Over Tiles
Most tiled surfaces will be suitable for retiling over them if they are in good condition.
In contrast, if you have installed softer vinyl, quartz, or composite tiles, then retiling over these tiles is not possible.
Further, you must de-grease the tile surface before tiling over them.
In most cases, the best option is to remove the old tiles, prepare the subfloor, and then retile. 30 x 30 cm ceramic tiles and 15 x 15 cm porcelain tiles are best for retiling over existing tiles.
Pros and Cons of Tiling Over Tiles
Similar to many other projects, tiling over tiles has advantages and disadvantages. Knowing the pros and cons of doing so is essential if you try to retile on top of the old tiles.
| PROS | CONS |
| Time-saving Eliminates stress related to tile removal and demolition Cost-effective Fast | Cannot correct existing imperfections Must remove damaged tile and prep the surface Potential risk to the underlying floor |
Note: To avoid risk to the underlying floor and substrate cracking, it is essential to consult a structural engineer and know your floor’s exact weight capacity.
Final Thoughts
By reading this article, we hope you will understand how to tile over tiles properly and the best adhesives to bond the tiles.
Tiling over tiles will be a great option if the underlying floor has no negative impact.
Moreover, this is a cheap and time-saving method of redesigning your house. Since we have provided complete guidance about tiling over existing tiles, this blog will help you decide.
FAQs
Is Tiling Over Tiles a Good Idea?
It will depend on the surface condition with which you are dealing.
It will be great if the floor is suitable for tiling over. In some cases, removing the old tiles before retiling the surface will be best.
Will Tiling Over the Old Tiles Save Time?
Yes, tiling over tiles will save a lot of time and effort.
Do I Need to Use Special Adhesives When Tiling Over Tiles?
Yes, using S1 adhesives recommended for bonding tile on tile is best.