Can You Lay Tile Over Tile on a Shower Floor?
Yes, you can lay tile over tile on a shower floor, but it's not always the easiest or most recommended option. There are a few factors to consider before deciding to take this route:
Pros:
- Cost-effective: Laying new tile over existing tile can be cheaper than removing the old tile and starting from scratch.
- Less mess: Removing old tile can be a messy and time-consuming process. Laying new tile over existing tile will create significantly less dust and debris.
- Faster: Laying tile over existing tile can be a quicker process than removing the old tile and starting from scratch.
Cons:
- Uneven surface: If the existing tile is uneven, the new tile will also be uneven. This can create an uneven surface that is not comfortable to walk on.
- Added thickness: Laying new tile over existing tile will add thickness to the shower floor. This can make it difficult to get the shower door to close properly.
- Potential for cracking: If the existing tile is not properly adhered to the subfloor, the new tile may crack.
Factors to Consider:
- Condition of existing tile: If the existing tile is cracked, chipped, or loose, it is not recommended to lay new tile over it.
- Thickness of existing tile: If the existing tile is too thick, it may be difficult to lay new tile over it without creating an uneven surface.
- Adhesion of existing tile: If the existing tile is not properly adhered to the subfloor, the new tile may crack.
How to Lay Tile Over Tile:
If you decide to lay tile over tile, there are a few steps you need to take to ensure that the new tile is properly installed:
- Clean the existing tile: Make sure the existing tile is clean and free of debris.
- Check for cracks or loose tiles: Make sure the existing tile is secure and there are no cracks or loose tiles.
- Apply a bonding primer: A bonding primer will help to create a strong bond between the new tile and the existing tile.
- Install a leveling compound: If the existing tile is uneven, you will need to install a leveling compound to create a smooth surface.
- Install the new tile: Install the new tile as you would any other tile.
Alternatives to Laying Tile Over Tile:
If you are not comfortable laying tile over tile, there are a few alternatives:
- Remove the existing tile: This is the most time-consuming and expensive option, but it will give you the best results.
- Install a shower pan: This is a good option if you need to replace the entire shower floor.
- Use a different type of flooring: There are a number of other flooring options that can be used in a shower, such as vinyl or epoxy.
In conclusion, laying tile over tile on a shower floor is possible, but it's important to carefully consider the pros and cons before making a decision. If you are not comfortable with the risks involved, it's best to choose a different option.
