Can You Tile Over Existing Tiles?

Decisions, decisions, decisions. If your bathroom's looking a bit shabby but the thought of hiring a chippie to jackhammer out old tiles sounds terrible for your wallet and mental health, you’re not alone. It’s only fair to wonder whether you can skip the demo and tile over what's already there. This reasonable question comes with a reasonable answer — it depends! In this article, we share what we know about tiling (a lot) and shed some light on if and how to make tile-on-tile work.

Is tiling over existing tiles possible?

Sometimes, yes! But before you get carried away with tile options and grout, there are a few things to consider. Just like any other shortcut, the end result may be unpredictable. Tiling over existing tiles can be a budget-friendly and time-saving option — but only after you’ve assessed whether your home is suitable. If you're unsure, confirm with your tradesperson like Brooke and Gemma from Baia Stay did.

When tiling over existing tile is a good option 

Tiling over existing tiles can be a tempting shortcut, but it's not always the best option. Here's when it might actually work well:

• In a small area: Think bathroom floor refresh or a kitchen splashback update. For smaller areas, removing existing tiles isn’t as risky as redoing your entire floor this way.
• If you have a strong substrate: Uneven floors or weak substrates like plasterboard are a big no-no for tiling over. They can crack and become uneven quickly. If you have rock-solid subflooring, you may proceed.
• When your tiles are in good condition: It may seem counterintuitive, but a secure and stable base is the foundation for a successful tile-on-tile project. If your existing tiles are cracked, loose or uneven, you'll need to address those issues before proceeding.

When to remove existing tiles before retiling

Sometimes, a fresh start is the best approach. Here are the situations where removing the existing tiles is the wiser choice:

• If you have a weak substrate: Got a bouncy, uneven or weak substrate? This calls for a full demo to ensure a solid base for your new tiles. Think of it like reno insurance!
• For a dramatic transformation: Maybe you want to switch from tiny mosaic tiles to statement terrazzo slabs. In this case, removing the existing tiles allows for more design freedom and potentially a different tile layout.
• If you have height concerns: Adding a new layer of tiles increases the floor height. If doorways or transitions to other flooring types could become a problem with added height, removing the existing tiles might be necessary.

Weighing your options: Pros and cons of tiling over existing tiles

So, you've assessed your situation and narrowed down the possibilities. Now, let's weigh the pros and cons of tiling over existing tiles to help you make an informed decision:

Pros

• Time and money saver: Skipping the demolition process saves significant time and money.
• Less disruption: Demoing tiles can be a dusty and noisy affair. Tiling over existing tiles minimises the chaos in your home, making it a more apartment-friendly option.
• Preserving waterproofing: If your existing bathroom tiles were correctly installed, you might not need to redo this crucial step when tiling over them.

Cons

• Height concerns: Remember, adding a new layer of tiles raises the floor height. This can be an issue in areas with tight doorways and transitions to other flooring types. No one wants a trip hazard in their home!
• Potential for bond failure: If the existing tiles are poorly bonded, cracked or have a poor surface texture, the new tiles may not adhere properly. Trust us — it’s not fun.
• Restricted design options: The thickness of your existing tiles can restrict your design choices for new tiles. Opting for much thicker new tiles might create an uneven floor or clearance issues.

Preparing to tile over existing tiles: The foundation for success

So, you’ve decided to go ahead. Great! Before you start tiling, a thorough inspection and preparation are key. 

Here’s what you need to do before you whip out the trowel:

1. Decide between professional and DIY

There’s been a lot of DIY talk in this article — but it’s not for everyone. A learning curve is involved, and mistakes can happen without the right tools or knowledge. These errors might lead to uneven tiles, inconsistent grout lines or even tiles that come loose over time.

On the other hand, professional installation is obviously going to cost you more — but think of it as an investment. Professionals come equipped with the right tools, expertise and experience. You can avoid the common pitfalls of tiling, ensuring longevity and durability.

2. Become a tile detective

We’re not joking — grab a torch and meticulously examine your existing tiles for cracks, loose tiles or unevenness. A hollow sound when tapping a tile with the handle of a screwdriver indicates a weak bond that needs fixing. Remember, dodgy tiles underneath can lead to dodgy new tiles on top — and nobody wants that!

3. Let your clean-freak flag fly

It's cleaning time! Thoroughly clean the existing tiles to remove dirt, grease, grime and soap scum that might hinder the new tile adhesive's bonding strength. Think of it as creating a squeaky-clean canvas for your new masterpiece. Once you've scrubbed to your heart's content, rinse the tiles thoroughly and allow them to dry completely.

4. Scrutinise the substrate

Don't forget about what's underneath the tiles! While existing waterproofing in bathrooms might be a bonus, you'll still need to ensure the subfloor is up to snuff for tiling over existing tiles. A stable and solid concrete slab is ideal. If you discover minor bumps or unevenness in the existing tiles, you can rectify them using a grinding tool.

If you’re still unsure about the subfloor's suitability, consult a licensed professional.

5. Primetime

Once you've addressed any issues and the surface is clean and dry, it's time to prime! A thin layer of good-quality primer designed explicitly for tiling over existing tiles will help the new tile adhere to the existing tiles. Let the primer dry completely before proceeding.

Step-by-step guide to tiling over existing tiles

Now that you've prepped your surface like a pro, it's time for the fun part — laying those gorgeous new tiles! In case you’re not a fan of long YouTube tutorials, here’s a rough idea of how we’d do it:

1. Gather supplies

Assemble your tiling toolkit, including a notched trowel, tile adhesive, grout, bucket, tile spacers (optional), tile cutters (for those inevitable cuts!), sponges, a level and safety gear.

2. Prepare the adhesive

Following the manufacturer's instructions, mix your adhesive to a smooth, spreadable consistency. Remember, consistency is key! Think peanut butter or putty.

3. Trowel time

Spread the adhesive onto a manageable section of the existing tile surface using a notched trowel. The smaller the section, the better — some brands dry fast! The notches on the trowel will ensure the proper adhesive coverage for your new tiles.

4. Lay the tiles

One by one, carefully place your new tiles onto the adhesive, gently pressing them down to ensure they stick. Use tile spacers if you’d like to create consistent grout lines, or go freehand for a more organic look.

As you lay each tile, use a level to ensure they are perfectly flat. A slight tap with a rubber mallet can help adjust any uneven tiles.

5. Cut corners (literally)

For those inevitable cuts around edges or fixtures, use your tile cutter to create clean and precise cuts. A little practice on scrap tiles beforehand can help you achieve professional-looking results.

6. Set and prep

Once you've laid all the tiles, allow the adhesive to dry completely according to the manufacturer's recommended curing time. Once dry, prepare your grout mix following the packet instructions. The consistency should be similar to toothpaste.

7. Get grouting

Using a grout float held at a diagonal angle, firmly press the grout into the spaces between the tiles. Work in small sections diagonally across the tiled surface to ensure complete filling.

8. Clean up the mess

If you’re not questioning whether something’s gone horribly wrong, you haven’t done it right. Your first time tiling, you’re bound to make a mess! Using a damp sponge, remove any excess grout from the tile surfaces. Rinse the sponge frequently to avoid spreading grout haze. 

TileCloud: Transforming spaces with confidence

Feeling overwhelmed? Breathe easy! TileCloud is your one-stop shop for tiling success. Browse our great range of stunning tiles, from subway to fish scale, and tap into the expertise of our interior design consultants. They'll answer your questions, guide you through the process, and ensure your tiling journey is a smooth ride. Whatever you do, don't embark on a major renovation without expert advice! Schedule a free tile consultation with TileCloud today and bring your dreams to life with a little extra help.

FAQs

Can you put a splashback over existing tiles?

In some cases, yes! The suitability depends on the condition of the existing tiles and the splashback's material. Consult a professional for the best advice on your specific situation.

Can you tile over existing wall tiles?

The same principles apply to tiling walls — ensure the wall is structurally sound, the existing tiles are securely bonded, and the surface is adequately cleaned and prepped before tiling over them.

Can you waterproof over existing tiles?

No, unfortunately. Proper waterproofing in bathrooms and wet areas requires a direct bond between the waterproofing and the substrate. Tiling over existing tiles creates a barrier that prevents the membrane from adhering correctly. In these situations, removing the existing tiles and installing new waterproofing before tiling is essential to ensure a watertight and safe bathroom.