How To Install Tile Over Tile On Shower Walls

You can lay new ceramic tile right over the old using the prep techniques we show here.

How to install tile over tile on shower walls.

It pays to rent or buy a score and snap tile cutter if you re using 4 x 4 in. The basic tiling process is the same as any tile installation. Roughen the tile with 80 grit sandpaper. Colorful tiles may go out of style and some tiles are inappropriate for the space.

Tiles like we show. But if you re using natural stone or larger tiles and your shower wall tile layout requires lots of cuts especially notching rent a tile saw for a day. Tiled walls can last many years but that s not always a good thing. Working in small sections spread the thinset over the existing tile using a notched trowel.

This is a dusty job so use plastic to cover your doorways wear a respirator that s rated for dust cover the floor with a drop cloth and make sure there s plenty of ventilation. Grind them down with a grinder. Wear skid proof shoes kneepads gloves. Begin by removing the old tile or the fiberglass shower wall.

However tiling over tile can add quite a bit of thickness so make sure your wall can handle the weight. Tiling a shower is a diy project that you can usually accomplish in a few days with the right tools and equipment. Also tile is heavy so put down blankets to protect the floors and tub from being damaged by falling. You may tile over existing tile painted or unpainted drywall plaster and textured walls.

Purchase a tub surround kit compatible with your existing tub from your local home improvement store. Lay a level on the old tile and mark any high spots. Give your shower an update with new tile. Using a modified mortar with latex or polymer additives creates a stronger bond between the existing tile floor and your new tiles.

Once all pieces of tile are cut to size move them out of the way so that you can scrub down your base. You should not tile over wallpaper glossy surfaces lead paint or plywood. Then pick your shower tile and use this guide for step by step instructions on how to tile a shower. It avoids the time consuming messy tear out process.

How to tile over existing wall tile. Installing a tub surround over old shower tiles is one of the fastest ways to brighten up a bathroom. These kits are not only easy to install but they also look nice and seal the area behind them from water. Glass tile can be expensive so it s wise to think of it as an accent only.

Then lay out your new tiles and cut them to fit around the walls and fixtures as necessary.