The Best Adhesives For Tiling Over Tiles

A question tilers are frequently asked by their customers is whether it is possible to tile over existing tiles. The answer, in short, is yes, but this depends on a variety of factors. It is always preferable to remove the existing tiles first to create a stable and ideal substrate. Being able to tile over tiles will depend on the condition of the existing tiles, the quality of the previous job and the size of the new tiles to be laid. This will have an impact on whether the floor needs re-leveling and the choice of tile adhesive, as only certain adhesives are suitable for tile-on-tile application.

Whether you're refreshing a bathroom, modernising a kitchen backsplash, or updating floor tiles, selecting the best adhesive is crucial for ensuring a durable and long-lasting finish. In this guide, we'll explore the best adhesives for tiling over tiles and the essential tools you'll need to complete the job.

Can You Tile Over Tile?

If you have opted to tile over your existing tiles, you need to ensure your existing tiles are sound, stable, dry, securely bonded, and fixed to a background that is capable of taking the additional weight.

Your existing tiles can not be loose, must be free from grease, and must not be cracked, otherwise you may experience issues. You must ensure the tiles are completely de-greased to remove anything that could reduce the effectiveness of any new tile adhesive added, which can be an arduous task if operating in kitchens or large commercial areas.

Why Tile Over Existing Tiles?

As previously stated, we’d recommend that it’s always preferable to remove the existing tiles first to create a stable and ideal substrate. However, tiling over existing tiles is a popular method for several reasons:

• Time-Saving: It eliminates the need for messy and labour-intensive tile removal.
• Cost-Effective: Saves on labour and disposal costs associated with removing old tiles.
• Structural Integrity: Avoids potential damage to the substrate underneath, which can occur when old tiles are removed.

However, this method requires careful preparation and the right tile adhesive to ensure the new tiles adhere properly.

What Is The Best Adhesive for Tiling Over Tiles?

Not all adhesives are created equal, and when tiling over existing tiles, the choice becomes even more critical. Here are some of the top tile adhesive for tiling over tiles options:

Products You Need To Tile Over Tile

In order to tile over tile, amongst key tiling tools, the main two products you will need are:

1. Tile Primer
   

   Once the existing tiles have been cleaned, the existing tiles next need to be primed to ensure the smooth, seamless fitting of the new tiles. Priming the existing tile will help to reduce the porosity (absorbancy) of the background which in turn will minimise any chemical reactions with adhesives. Selecting the right primer is essential for tiling over your existing tiles to make sure your new surface has enough grip for the new layer of tile adhesive you are about to apply.

   Kerakoll Active Prime Fix is a rapid universal adhesion promoter for self-levelling products, cement-based adhesives, finishing products, and plasters/renders. Some benefits include that it is:

   

   • Single-component, water-based, and for internal and external use.
   • Extremely fluid, high stabilizing and impregnating power.
   • Suitable for absorbent and non‑absorbent substrates.
   • Quick drying.
   • Ideal for the surface consolidating treatment of dry, dusty substrates.
   • Reduces and regulates the absorption of porous substrates, extending the workability of levelling and self-levelling products and mineral adhesives.
   

   Another high-quality, popular and ready-to-use primer is the Weber PR30 Tiling Primer, designed for the preparation of most substrates prior to the application of tile adhesives, self levelling compounds, and tanking kits; offering good alkali resistance and adhesion properties in both wet and dry environments.
   

   If you have a non-absorbent surface such as ceramic, terrazzo or natural stone the best primer to use would be Mapei Eco Prim Grip Plus. This is a bonding promoter and primer.
   

   A moisture-tolerant primer suitable for porous and non-porous substrates is Ultra Floor PRIME IT MULTI-SURFACE PRIMER. This primer is recommended for use prior to the application of smoothing underlayments and between layers, making it a suitable primer to be used for tiling onto existing tiles as it maximises interlayer adhesion.
2. Tile Adhesive
   

   Choosing the right adhesive to tile onto existing tiles is crucial as only certain tile adhesives are suitable for tile-on-tile application. Pro Tiler Tools have a variety of different adhesive options for your next tile-on-tile job!

   As previously mentioned, it is recommended to use an S1 tile adhesive for tiling onto existing tiles. A standard set tile adhesive will give the user good workability time with the adhesive meaning you shouldn't have to come back the following day while waiting for the adhesive to set.
   

   A suitable adhesive for tiling over tiles would be the Ultra Tile ProFlex SPES, available in white and grey. This adhesive has extended open time and is specially formulated with extended workability, which enhances both adhesion and flexibility.
   

   The Kerakoll H40 Gel Adhesive, also available in white and grey combines unique workability and high performance. This adhesive is easy to apply and holds its shape supporting the weight of heavy tiles, making it a suitable choice when tiling on existing tiles. The H40 Gel has great performance with all materials and substrates making it a go-to adhesive for all situations.

   Read more: Kerakoll H40 Gel Adhesive: A Multipurpose Tile Adhesive
   

   Another S1 adhesive suitable for tiling on your existing tiles is Benfer BenferFlex +S1 High Yield Standard Set Flexible Adhesive 25kg Extra White. This adhesive has been formulated and developed for a rapid, reliable installation of ceramic, porcelain and natural stone tiles, even on non-absorbent substrates and onto substrates subject to slight dimensional value.

   Read more:

   • Tile Adhesive: Ready Mixed Or Powder?
   • How To Choose Between Grey and White Adhesive
   • Weber Tile Adhesive Spotlight: How Long Does Rapid-Set Tile Adhesive Take To Set?

Tiling Tools For Tiling Over Tiles

Using the right tiling tools is just as important as selecting the right adhesive. Here’s a list of essential tiling tools you’ll need for tiling over tiles:

1. Notched Trowel

   A notched trowel is crucial for applying adhesive evenly. The size of the notches should correspond to the size of your tiles; larger tiles require deeper notches.

   Read more: How To Use A Notched Trowel

2. Tile Cutter or Wet Saw

   A tile cutter or wet saw is essential for cutting tiles to fit around edges, corners, and fixtures. A wet saw is particularly useful for cutting natural stone or porcelain tiles.

   Read more:
   • How To Drill Through Tile
   • Best Rated Tile Cutters: Everything You Need To Know About Battipav Tile Cutters
   • Best Small Tile Cutter: A Guide On How To Cut Small Tiles
   • The Best Electric Tile Cutter
3. Tile Spacers

   Tile spacers help ensure even spacing between tiles, resulting in a professional finish. They come in various sizes, so choose the one that matches your desired tile grout line width.

4. Spirit Level
   

   A spirit level is essential for checking that your tiles are even, both horizontally and vertically. This step is crucial to avoid uneven surfaces and a lopsided appearance.
5. Grout Float and Sponge

   Once the adhesive has set, a grout float is used to apply grout between the tiles. A grout sponge or washboy is then used to clean off excess grout and smooth the grout lines.

6. Paddle Mixers & Whisks

   Paddle mixers are essential for achieving a consistent and lump-free adhesive mixture, prime examples of reliable mixing paddles and an electric mixer are the Bihui M14 Twist Mixing Paddle and the Rubi Rubimix-16 ERGOMAX Electric Mixer.

   When mixing mortars and adhesives, whisks are an ideal alternative to a paddle mixer, the Battipav 115mm Hex Whisk and Kubala Adhesive And Mortar Whisk HEX Fitment 1207 are great options.

   Read more: The Best Tools To Use for Mixing Adhesive

7. Tile Marking

   When setting out and marking, pencils, tile scribes and markers are so useful, don’t forget to include them in your inventory list before tiling over tiles.

8. Tiling Safety Gear
   

   Always remember personal protective equipment. A high-quality dust mask, safety glasses, and work gloves are important when working with adhesives and mixing tools. Prioritise your safety to ensure a worry-free working environment.

• 9 Essential Tools for Tilers
• Your Tiling Tools Essentials

Tiling Over Tiles: Top Tips

• Examine the existing tiles to ensure they are suitable to tile on top of
• Your existing tiles can not be loose, not greasy and not cracked
• Do not over-tile onto softer vinyl, quartz or composite tiles
• Ensure the tiles are de-greased
• Use an S1 adhesive!

By following these guidelines, you have our expert advice on the best adhesives for tiling over tiles with precision and confidence. If you need any assistance with your order, don’t hesitate to contact our team of experts, via email at [email protected] or give us a call at 01604 859800.