How to Tile Over Tile
The usual way of installing new floor tile where old tile is in place is to remove the old tile first---a big, messy job, but usually necessary to get a smooth starting surface. However, if the existing tile is firm, flat and unbroken, and you aren't worried about raising the level of the floor, you can lay the new tile directly over it. Make sure the old tile is well-cleaned and dry. If it isn't, mortar for the new tiles may not adhere correctly.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Chalkbox
- Thin set (mortar)
- Notched trowel
- Floor tiles
- Spacers
- Tile cutter
- Grout
- Grout float
- Sponge
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1
Stretch your chalkbox across the middle of the floor, from the center of one edge to the center of the edge across from it. If the string is on one of the grout lines of the old floor, move it over by a couple inches so it's off the grout line. Snap the line.
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2
Repeat the process in the perpendicular direction, again making sure you're not on the old grout line. You should end up with the floor divided into four squares.
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3
Use your notched trowel to spread mortar over the center of the floor, covering about three square feet within one of the sections of the intersection of the lines.
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4
Set a floor tile in the mortar, on the lines. Place a second tile next to it, with spacers between them.
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5
Spread more mortar and build the tile grid out toward the walls. Cut tiles to fit around the edges, using your tile cutter and laying the tiles so the cut sides face the walls.
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6
Let the tiles set for 12 hours. Pull out the spacers.
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7
Press grout into the spaces between the tiles with a grout float, scraping it off the surface. Use a damp sponge to wipe up the excess grout. Let it set for 24 hours.
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