Bathroom Tiling - On top of existing tiles???

moggiex · 12-03-2006, 02:14 PM

Hi,

I'm about to start on the bathroom, however wish to retile the whole room, however I'm kinda concerned about riping off what is already a nice flat surface (the existing tiles) and then having to replaster on top, just to lay some more tiles on top.

So what I'm getting at is, is it ok to tile on top of the existing tiles, if so what product would I need to make sure they stick to the existing tiles OR is it better to pull the old ones off, replaster the holes (as u just know there will be loads LOL) and the tile on top?

Matt

AAPaint · 12-03-2006, 05:50 PM

In short....and I'm no tile guy...the answer is NO. Not something you want to try.

joewho · 12-03-2006, 08:39 PM

Walls? or floors only? What kind of tile?

Depending on what kind of tile, you can get a bag of mix that dries like cement, and it's for your application. If it's self stick squares, you should get rid of them. If it's the old time asbestos, your best bet is to skim them with the mix and retile. If the tiles are held in place with adhesive, and you choose to remove them, get some adhesive remover, works a heck of a lot better than trying to chisel off the adhesive.

If you're going to use sheetgoods, just get the liquid latex to level it.

McCool · 12-04-2006, 12:51 AM

No. Do not do it. rip them up and hope the last guy who did it put an underlay down so the floor doesn't come with the tiles.

moggiex · 12-04-2006, 03:13 AM

Its actually the wall tiles, not flooring tiles, sorry didn't make that clear =(

joewho · 12-04-2006, 05:00 AM

Well, that changes everything. lol.

Still don't know what kind of tiles. I'm adventurous and like to think creative ways to do things, but this.....

McCool · 12-04-2006, 11:04 AM

100% rip them down.

If you have to do it on the cheap and on the lazy; once I worked with a guy who just ripped the tiles off the wall and used the same backing to put the new ones on. They held but they weren't too pretty (out of level).

If you want to do it right you are going to have to rip the tiles off and more likely than not do some serious wall repair (getting rid of the old adhesive than filling the holes you've made) you may even go so far as to replace the wall or a portion of it, which I find sometimes is easier.

it can be a lot of work but it will show through with the final result which will last longer and look better.

good luck

billinak · 12-04-2006, 12:26 PM

I recommend demolishing the entire wall and starting at the studs with new concrete backer. A hammer, prybar, and sawzall will make quick work of the existing wall and you can have the new backer board up in no time.

RICHIE K · 12-13-2006, 06:17 AM

I did it once and 5 years later its still holding up (walls in tub area )