Homeowners planning a bathroom renovation may not need to strip out their old tiles first, according to a report by Romanian outlet Libertatea.ro. New tiles can be laid directly over an existing surface, but only if that surface meets certain conditions.
Before starting work, every tile on the wall or floor should be checked carefully. Tiles that are firmly fixed can have new ones laid straight over the top, which cuts down on waste and shortens how long the renovation takes.
Each tile must be clean, dry and securely attached. Any tile that moves, or that makes a hollow sound when tapped lightly, should be removed before the new layer goes down. Experts warned that fitting new tiles onto an unstable base can eventually cause the whole new covering to peel away along with the old one underneath.
Waterproofing Before Tiling
Stopping moisture from getting in is a key step, particularly in areas that come into direct contact with water, such as inside a shower cubicle. The waterproof coating should be applied in two layers with a brush or roller, leaving about three hours for each layer to dry. Corners and joints should get extra protective sealing tape. The surface then needs to be left to dry for 12 to 24 hours, depending on the manufacturer's instructions.
Laying the New Tiles
For a stronger bond, adhesive should go on both the wall and the back of the ceramic tile. Tiling should begin from the bottom row. Spacers or tile crosses measuring 1 to 2 millimetres are used to keep even gaps between tiles. Once laid, tiles should be left to dry for at least 24 hours before grouting starts. Light-coloured grout should be left even longer, around two to three days, to avoid staining or uneven colouring.
Other Bathroom Updates
The report follows separate advice from designers on 11 items worth clearing out of a bathroom to refresh the space without a full renovation, as well as reporting that plastic bath side panels, once seen as a stylish, modern choice, are increasingly viewed as an outdated feature.
