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Tiling Over a Tile Floor

Flooring, Ask Danny Published 11/20/2007 by Danny Lipford

I currently have a dated ceramic bathroom tile floor originally installed over a cement and mortar base. The ceramic tiles are about 6 inch square with a matte finish and about 1/4″ thick with 1/4″ sanded grouting. Is it possible to tile on top of the existing tiles with thin set mortar? If so, are there any preparations to the existing tiles required? Your advice would be appreciated, James

James,

Yes, you can lay tile over an existing tile floor as long as it is in good condition with no major cracks or settling. Keep in mind, however, that it will raise the height of the floor, which might require cutting off the bottom of the bathroom door. You will also need to take the toilet out before installing the tile and replace the existing toilet flange bolts if they aren’t long enough for the added height. If any of the old tiles are loose, reattach them to the floor, and fill in any missing spots. After cleaning the floor thoroughly, lay the tile with thin-set adhesive. For more detailed information on how to tile over tile, check out the online video from our Bathroom Makeover show.

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