How to Tile Over Existing Tile

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Do you have a shower in your home that looks like the one on the right? This is in our kid’s bathroom. It has LIVED through daily(at least I hope daily) showers from 6 kids for many many years.

It definitely needed a makeover, but I was reluctant to completely remove the old tile because I knew it would be a big job and take LOTS of time. Plus, I didn’t want to share my shower with my kids any longer than necessary:) So I googled a few options and the one I chose was TILING OVER THE EXISTING TILE! Now before you think this project is too difficult let me tell you about my previous tiling experience…NONE…ZERO…ZIP…ZILCH!

Actually, I HAVE watched other people tile and I think I attended one of those 30 minute tiling classes at Home Depot once. Other than that I didn’t have any tiling experience, but I had youtube and ambition. What more did I need? Well let me tell you…

HERE IS WHAT YOU WILL NEED:

• Mapei Eco Prim Grip
• Tiling Supplies(Tiles, Thin-Set, Grout, etc.)
• Paint Roller and Tray
• Palm Sander(Optional)
• Sand Paper(80 Grit)
• Basic Tools(Hammer, Drill, Allen Wrench)

STEp 1: REMOVE Faucet/Shower HEAD/SOAP & Shower Shelves

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Protect your tub by covering it with plastic. Then remove the soap and shampoo shelves. I wasn’t planning to reuse them, so I used a hammer to knock them off the wall. Remove the faucet and shower head. There are a variety of ways to do this. Check youtube for your specific faucet.

After removing the shelves, fill the holes with some thin-set(the stuff you use to apply tile). Then use a palm sander with 80 grit paper and lightly sand the tiles. This will rough them up and prepare the surface to accept the primer.

STEP 2: PRIMER AKA THE SECRET SAUCE

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The real secret to successfully tiling over existing tile is the primer. We used Mapei’s ECO Prim Grip. It is easy to apply. Just use a paint roller and roll it on. I applied a couple of coats. Can you see the great texture that it provides after it dries? It is perfect for a new application of tile.

STEP 3: Tile

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As I said before, I am not a tiling expert and there are a ton of youtube videos that can guide you in this next step. It definitely takes some time, but I loved the results. More tile jobs are definitely in my future!

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me with any questions. I would also love to see your tiling projects. You can tag me on Insta @project.636.home.