Bathroom tile question - Contractor Talk - Professional Construction and Remodeling Forum

Footfall · 06-10-2008, 02:01 PM

First and foremost let me say I DON'T tile. I was watching TV and some crazy British show was saying that you could tile over TILE in a tub/shower surround.

As far as I thought this is a huge no no. Could you tile guys set me straight?

rbsremodeling · 06-10-2008, 02:13 PM

It is not a good idea for obvious reasons

There are some variables to consider but it is do able. I ripped one out about 5 weeks ago had two layers of tile and it was on there for at least 5 years and showed no signs of major wear and tear.

But I would not recommend it.

Bud Cline · 06-10-2008, 02:22 PM

Tile on tile is done (or should be done) only under the best of circumstances. Showers and tub surrounds would be the more iffy areas and present the bigger issues.

Footfall · 06-10-2008, 02:33 PM

Interesting, I never knew that. Thanks for the reply.

kevjob · 06-10-2008, 04:07 PM

the only tile over tile we have ever done is on floors where the old tile is set in 2 inches of mud and all the tiles are set and no cracks.

Footfall · 06-10-2008, 07:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kevjob

the only tile over tile we have ever done is on floors where the old tile is set in 2 inches of mud and all the tiles are set and no cracks.

So pretty much a solid tile installation that is only being replaced due to looks, not workmanship eh.

Bud Cline · 06-10-2008, 07:55 PM

That's about it!

MattCoops · 06-24-2008, 10:55 PM

The ol' TCNA says you can tile over tile so long as the site is structurally sound and free of cracks.

Most get neglectful of the structurally sound part.
You could most likely rule out any installation of tile over tile after teeing off 18 holes with a GC that doesn't want to pay you extra for a tear out.

If any reps of the TCA are here, please let me know if pinging a golf ball off some tiles and listening for peculiar sounds is an appropriate method for determining a floor's "structurally sound-ness".