The Benefits of Tiling Over Existing and When to Tile Over Tiles

If you’re looking for a way to give your bathroom or kitchen a facelift without spending too much money, tiling over existing tiles is the perfect solution. This relatively simple process requires only basic tools, and it can be completed in a single day. But before you get started, it’s important to understand the benefits of tiling over existing tiles.

Cost Savings

One of the biggest advantages of tiling over existing tiles is that you don’t have to worry about ripping out old tile or dealing with the expensive disposal fees associated with it. Instead, all you need to do is clean and prepare the existing surface before laying down the new tile. You can also save money by reusing existing grout and adhesive products, which can be especially helpful if you’re trying to stay within a tight budget.

Time Savings

Tiling over existing tiles also saves time because there’s no need to tear out old tiles or wait for the new tile floors to cure. All you have to do is clean the surface thoroughly and make sure that it’s level before applying the new tile. This process typically takes just one day from start to finish, so you can enjoy your newly tiled space in no time at all.

Durability

If done correctly, tiling over an existing tile floor will result in an extremely durable surface that’s designed to stand up against heavy foot traffic and everyday wear and tear. When properly sealed and maintained, your new tile floors should last for years without requiring any major repairs or replacements. Many homeowners find that their newly tiled floors are even more durable than their original tile over-tile floors.

When to Tile Over Tiles

The most important thing to remember when tiling over tiles is that not all surfaces are suitable for the process. For example, if your existing tiles are poorly installed or laid on an uneven surface, it can be difficult if not impossible to tile over them successfully. In instances like this, it is recommended that you remove the existing tiles and start from scratch instead of attempting to lay new ones directly on top of them. 

In addition, certain types of tiles cannot be tiled over either due to their size or texture. For instance, large format tiles generally require additional reinforcement underneath because they are heavier than smaller-size tiles attempting to tile directly over these larger format tiles could result in damage or even collapse due to the extra weight. Similarly, textured tiles will require more prep work before installation due to the presence of ridges and other irregularities that could prevent a successful installation.