Tile Installation: How to Tile Over Existing Tile
If your old ceramic tile has become worn over time, or it is just too dated, it is possible to perform a ceramic tile installation over the old one, as this avoids the massive job of removing the old tile. In fact, professionals do it all the time. However, this is assuming that the floor beneath is solid concrete, and there are no cracks in the pre-existing tile, which is often an indication of underlying issues with the concrete subfloor.
Checking the Surface
- Make sure that all the tiles are solidly adhered to the floor by tapping them lightly with either a wood mallet or a piece of 2×4.
- Note: A hollow sound is a sure sign that tiles are loose.
- Remove and reset any loose tiles using thin-set.
Grind Off the High Spots and Cleaning the Tiles
- Place a level on the old tile and put marks on any high spots.
- Grind them down with an angle grinder that has a masonry wheel.
- Sand all the tiles using a belt or orbital sander with 80-grit, this will scratch any surface glazes clean off.
- Remove any mold or loose grout using either a rotary tool or carbide scraper.
- Vacuum the tiles and clean them with some detergent and water to remove any dirt, sealers, or wax.
- Rinse the surface using clear water and leave it dry.
Spread Adhesive
- Spread a layer of thin-set on the rear of the tiles for greater adhesion.
- If you spread an area of thin-set on the floor, use a larger-notch trowel.
- Whatever method you choose to use, always make sure to comb the adhesive in one direction with no swirls.
Set the Tile
- Press the tile onto the thin-set and slide it perpendicular motion to the combed lines.
For information pertaining to the ceramic tile installation services that T.G. Installations can offer, please do not hesitate to dial this number (405) 451-2574 now, we are based in the Norman, OK area.