My Experience With Tiling Over Tile In The Shower

When I first moved into my new home, I was excited to update the outdated bathroom. The shower was covered in old, chipped tiles that needed to be replaced. However, I didn’t want to go through the hassle and expense of removing the old tiles before installing new ones. That’s when I started researching whether or not I could tile over the existing tiles.

Can I Tile Over Tile in the Shower?

The short answer is yes, you can tile over existing tiles in the shower. However, there are some important factors to consider before starting this project.

Step-by-Step Guide for Tiling Over Tile in the Shower

1. Clean the existing tiles thoroughly with a tile cleaner and let them dry completely.

2. Sand the tiles lightly to create a rough surface for the new tiles to bond to.

3. Apply a thin layer of mortar to the existing tiles using a notched trowel.

4. Lay the new tiles in the desired pattern, pressing them firmly into the mortar.

5. Allow the mortar to dry completely before grouting the tiles.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Tiling Over Tile in the Shower

1. Choose large tiles to cover the existing tiles as much as possible.

2. Use a high-quality mortar that is designed for tiling over existing tiles.

3. Consider adding a waterproof membrane over the existing tiles before tiling to prevent leaks.

4. Use a tile cutter to cut tiles to fit around fixtures and edges.

5. Consider adding accent tiles or a mosaic design to add visual interest to the shower.

6. Use a sealer on the new tiles to protect them from water damage.

7. Test the existing tiles for adhesion before starting the tiling process.

8. Allow plenty of time for the mortar to dry before grouting the tiles.

9. Consider hiring a professional if you are unsure about your tiling skills.

10. Take your time and be patient throughout the tiling process to ensure a professional-looking finish.

Pros and Cons of Tiling Over Tile in the Shower

Pros:

Saves time and money compared to removing the existing tiles.
Less mess and hassle than removing tiles.
Can create a new, updated look without major renovation.

Cons:

The new tiles will add thickness to the walls, which can affect fixtures and fittings.
The finished product may not look as seamless as removing the existing tiles and starting from scratch.
If the existing tiles are damaged or not adhering well, tiling over them may not be a long-term solution.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

Overall, I was happy with the results of tiling over the existing tiles in my shower. It saved time and money and gave the bathroom a much-needed update. However, I did notice that the walls were thicker after the new tiles were added, which caused some issues with the shower fixtures. If you are considering tiling over existing tiles, I would suggest doing thorough research and hiring a professional if you are unsure about your tiling skills.