Install Shower Floor Tile Over Existing Tile

If the original tile is still in excellent condition then it is possible to install tile over tile but the proper steps must be taken in order to complete the project correctly.

Install shower floor tile over existing tile.

In our project we set the tile for the wall opposite the shower door first. It s a straightforward process that requires isolating the old tile with a waterproofing membrane removing the old drain cover and setting a new grate over the existing drain. These include the floor height which can become an issue as it could make the tiled over floor become too high and possibly block doors or cupboards that are in line with the old flooring prior to the re tiling job. If the existing shower is correctly installed there is no way that the tiles on the floor of the shower can be level as pitch from the walls to the drain is required for the water to drain.

Removing existing tile before installing new tile is recommended however sometimes old tile can be very difficult or almost impossible to remove. If your old ceramic tile is worn or dated you can lay new tile right over the old and avoid the huge job of tearing out the old tile. We are installing a dreamline corner shower base in an existing bathroom. Save time by setting several tiles at once.

Purchase a tub surround kit compatible with your existing tub from your local home improvement store. The installation instructions tell you to apply enough bedding material mortar to support the entire bottom of the base. These kits are not only easy to install but they also look nice and seal the area behind them from water. Tiling over an uneven surface will give you less than stellar results so level out any globs of dried grout with a sander and secure loose tiles with fresh tile adhesive before beginning the project.

Installing tile over tile however does have some downsides also. We wanted to install over the existing tile floor for a much cleaner look. In fact pros do it all the time. On the ceiling and floor of the shower we used 2 x 2 tiles and on shower walls 2 x 4 tiles.

As much as i dispise pre mixed thinset for any application as a tile professional for 15 years i must strongly advise you to not give out advice to.