How To Install Tile Over Tile On Shower Walls

Colorful tiles may go out of style and some tiles are inappropriate for the space.

How to install tile over tile on shower walls.

Glass tile can be expensive so it s wise to think of it as an accent only. Installing a tub surround over old shower tiles is one of the fastest ways to brighten up a bathroom. Then pick your shower tile and use this guide for step by step instructions on how to tile a shower. You should not tile over wallpaper glossy surfaces lead paint or plywood.

Give your shower an update with new tile. Tiled walls can last many years but that s not always a good thing. Begin by removing the old tile or the fiberglass shower wall. The basic tiling process is the same as any tile installation.

Then lay out your new tiles and cut them to fit around the walls and fixtures as necessary. If you re not sure if you have lead paint test kits are available. Once all pieces of tile are cut to size move them out of the way so that you can scrub down your base. You can lay new ceramic tile right over the old using the prep techniques we show here.

Working in small sections spread the thinset over the existing tile using a notched trowel. It avoids the time consuming messy tear out process. Purchase a tub surround kit compatible with your existing tub from your local home improvement store. These kits are not only easy to install but they also look nice and seal the area behind them from water.

It pays to rent or buy a score and snap tile cutter if you re using 4 x 4 in. Press the tile onto the floor. Tiling a shower is a diy project that you can usually accomplish in a few days with the right tools and equipment. 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.

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. You may tile over existing tile painted or unpainted drywall plaster and textured walls. Roughen the tile with 80 grit sandpaper. Also tile is heavy so put down blankets to protect the floors and tub from being damaged by falling.

However tiling over tile can add quite a bit of thickness so make sure your wall can handle the weight. Lay a level on the old tile and mark any high spots. Position your tiles according to the layout you choose. Tiles like we show.

Grind them down with a grinder.