Can You Tile Over Tile? In Many Cases, Yes—Here’s How

If you’re ready to upgrade your dated, dingy tile floor or wall, you might wonder: can you tile over tile, or do you need to remove the existing tile first? In certain cases, you can re-tile without ripping out the old stuff—as long as it’s in good enough condition. If yours is, here’s how to tile over tile.

When Is It Okay to Tile Over Existing Tile?

Your tile’s current condition is the most important factor in determining whether or not you can put more tile over it. In short, the existing tile must be strong, secure, clean, damage-free, and level to support a second layer of tile. The original adhesive and substrate also need to be able to withstand the extra weight.

Before you begin this project, check for:

• Loose tiles

• Broken or cracked tiles

• Mold or mildew

• Discoloration

• Leaks

If you spot any of these signs, consider removing the existing tile. You can fix one or two loose tiles, but if most tiles are damaged or there are signs of mold, you’re better off starting from scratch.

Consider these factors as well, depending on where you plan to add tile:

• By re-tiling an existing tile floor, you’ll essentially double its thickness. Make sure the additional height won’t prevent your doors from opening and closing, interfere with furniture, create a trip hazard, or cause other issues.

• When you tile over a tile wall, your walls must be strong enough to support the extra weight of the new tile, adhesive, and grout. If not, you could damage your walls.

• If you add tile over a backsplash or half of a wall, it can look oddly thick—like it’s sticking out too far from the wall. If that sounds unappealing, remove the old tile first.

Not sure whether your tile is suitable for re-tiling? Have a local tile contractor take a look.

How to Prep for Tiling Over Tile

Before you can lay new tiles, you’ll need to prepare the existing tile surface. This may require a number of tools and supplies, including:

• Sander or sandpaper

• Degreasing soap

• Nylon sponge

• Painter’s tape

• Plastic sheeting

• Tile adhesive (optional)

• Drill with a mixing paddle or another mixing tool (optional)

• Bucket (optional)

Kick off the prep work by using a sander or sandpaper on the existing tiles to get rid of dried or protruding grout.

Next, fix any loose tiles, making sure to use the right type of adhesive. The best adhesive for tiling over tiles will depend on your project and its location within your home:

• Mastic adhesive is a good option for relatively dry areas (like kitchens). This type of tile adhesive comes premixed, so it’s ready to use.

• Thinset mortar works well in most parts of the home, including damp and humid locations (like bathrooms). It’s often sold in powder form, which you’ll need to mix with water in a bucket. Check the label for more specific instructions.

When all of the tiles are secure, scrub the entire surface with a nylon sponge and degreasing soap. Rinse the soap with clear water and let it dry completely.

To protect the surrounding area from grout and adhesive, apply painter’s tape around the edges of the project space and cover nearby surfaces with plastic sheeting.

How to Tile Over Tile

With your project area prepped, you’re ready to apply the new tile. During this phase, it’s best to work slowly and carefully—especially if you’ve never installed tile before. You’ll need the following tools and supplies:

• Tile cutting tool (like a snap cutter or angle grinder)

• Tile adhesive

• Tiles

• Tile spacers

• Grout

• Grout float

• Notched trowel

• Nylon sponge

1. Lay Out the New Tiles

Starting at the center of the project, work outward to lay the tiles in your preferred pattern. Aim to use as many full-size tiles as possible to minimize the number of tiles you’ll have to trim down in the next step.

2. Cut the Edge Pieces

At the edges of your project, cut the tiles to fit around walls, corners, cabinets, and fixtures. If you only need to make small or straight cuts, you can use a snap cutter. But if you need to cut corners or curves, you’ll need something more powerful, like an angle grinder.

3. Spread the Adhesive in a Small Section

In the middle of the project, use your trowel to spread a thin layer of adhesive to a small section of existing tile. Apply it at a 45-degree angle, then use the notched end of the trowel to score the surface of the adhesive. Run the trowel in one direction so the scored lines are parallel (not crossed or swirled).

4. Lay the Tiles

Press the tiles onto the adhesive, then slide each one into place in a perpendicular direction to the scored lines. Use tile spacers to create an even amount of space between tiles.

Optionally, you can also spread adhesive onto the backs of the new tiles (this is known as back buttering). It’ll add time to your project, but it will help strengthen the bond between the two layers of tile.

5. Repeat the Process

Continue applying and scoring the adhesive in small sections, then laying tile on top of it. When you’re done, let the adhesive cure completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

6. Apply Grout

After the adhesive dries, use the grout float to apply grout in between the tiles to protect them from debris and moisture. There are several types of grout to choose from, so make sure to pick one that’s suitable for your particular project.

7. Clean Up Excess Grout

Once you finish grouting the tiles, use a damp nylon sponge to wipe away any leftover grout. Rinse the sponge often and wipe gently so you don’t accidentally yank the grout out of the joints.

Tips for Adding New Tile Over Old Tile

Ready to tackle your first tile-over-tile project? Here are some tips for success:

• Select the right adhesive: Certain adhesives are designed to stick to a substrate or backer board—not tile itself. When choosing an adhesive, look for one that’s compatible with your specific type of tile.

• Opt for premixed supplies: If you’re new to tile installation, you can make the process easier by purchasing premixed adhesive and grout.

• Customize the look: There are tons of grout colors on the market, but if you can’t find one you love, experiment with grout colorant to create a custom shade.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

Professionals will usually remove existing tiles before installing new ones, so for the most part, tiling over tile is a DIY project. As a result, you won’t have to pay for labor, which runs between $3 and $15 per square foot.

However, you’ll need to budget for other expenses, including materials, supplies, and tools. On average, ceramic tiles cost $4 to $35 per square foot, while tiling tools range from $50 to $1,000.

If your existing tiles aren’t in good condition, you can remove them yourself or have a pro do it. Hiring a tile contractor to remove tile flooring costs between $2 and $7 per square foot.