Did you know tiling over an existing tile is not only possible but very easy to do? The reason why this concept is not used often is because “professionals” can charge extra when they have to take out old tiles AND put new ones in instead of just the application on the new tiles. In this DIY post you’ll see how much cheaper and fun it is to tile over your own tiles and have a look that you’ve always wanted to have.
Before we start anything we must always do the prep work. This is very important for this specific DIY only because you may be using compounds that are only good for a certain time (cement). Make sure you have all the proper supplies (check below for supply list) and have the surfaces you’re tiling properly measured. Now a good rule of thumb when buying the right amount of tiles is to do 10% more of what your measured surface is. Once you have everything ready, you may now start the “fun” part!
First and foremost, clean the area you’re working on. Very important step not to neglect because the compound you’ll be putting on top has to bond with the tiles. Now, pick out the tiles you want! We at PanHelic love these tiles in particular for their modern look and great selections! Decide on what kind of orientation you want them in. Products that are bond-promoting primers like this (?) is what you should be laying down! Check out our promoted products for this certain situation. This helps the cement grab onto something.
After giving the compound the appropriate time to dry you may now apply the cement. Mix your cement and get to laying them down. Trowel the cement to the specifications of the tile (please refer to the recommended trowel size that is listed on the manufacturer label tiles you buy.) If easier, you can place the cement on the back of the tile instead of the floor to ensure coverage. A good rule of thumb is the tile should have cement on 95% of it. No more, no less. Make sure the tile are leveled! Check every time you lay down a tile or two.
Now that you’ve set your first tiles, just follow the orientation you've picked and you're golden! Once done with the tiles you may now begin grouting. This is easily my favorite part of this process. Just put the grout on the tiles and wipe all over and it will fill the spaces between the tiles. After the recommended time you can wipe down the grout on the tile leaving the ones in between the spaces and you are all done!
STEP 1: Prep work is fun work! Get everything you need within your reach. Nothing worse than forgetting and having to hold off your work to grab something at the store.
A good practice is buying everything you need or might need. You can always return stuff to the store if its unused!
STEP 2: Lay down the bond-promoting compound and let it dry!
Make sure you read the recommended dry time for bond-promoting compound and cement!
STEP 3: Mix and pour cement! If easier you may apply the cement on the back of the tiles! (don't forget the 5% rule and use spacers between the tiles.)
When placing tile, make sure to use spacers. The right size of spacer can be found on the label of the tiles.
STEP 4: Grout in between spaces and give it some time to dry! You're all done!
Grout colors also vary. Make sure to get one that matches the tiles you have chosen!
Things You Need
Cement
Tiles https://amzn.to/41tclR8 #ad
Tile saw https://amzn.to/3mapfDC #ad
Tile Cutter (If only simple cuts to tiles are necessary)https://amzn.to/3m8vWpR#ad
Grout (colors vary, make sure to match with the tiles) https://amzn.to/3Szsroq #ad
Trowel (remember to get a trowel appropriate for your tiles) https://amzn.to/3ZpLCDj #ad
Level https://amzn.to/3lY5X47 #ad
Disclosure: We at PanHelic are not licensed professionals. Everything we say here is purely our ways of doing DIY. If you need to refer to anyone about code, permits, safety guidelines or anything of relation please contact your local professionals for help.