Can I install ceramic tile over old ceramic tiles? What about hardwood-both are 18 years old and well worn?

Question

Our kitchen is partially hardwood(old yellowy color) and ceramics where the appliances, sinks and cupboards are. We want to redo the floor all in one type of ceramic, but are hoping to avoid the removal of both if possible. Any thoughts? Thanks

Answer 1

I do not know anything about tile but my husband worked in the hardwood industry for 10+ years and from what I know about hardwood I would not put tile on top of it expecially if you live in an area where you have a big difference in summer and winter climate. Hardwood shrinks and expands depending on the temp and humidity in the air and could cause trouble with the tile and grout cracking as your wood expands and shrinks thoughout the year. If you do not want to refinish it (which would look a lot better than when it is worn) I would tear it out and put down some kind of tile safe backing under your tile.

Answer 2

I'd definitely say that you want to remove the old tile. The unsmooth surface will make it really hard putting up new tile.

If you have part tile and part wood and want it all the same, I recommend removing everything. If you were going to go with all hardwood, then you could refinish the old wood but you'd have to find some other old hardwood flooring that you could refinish to match it and that might be hard to do.

Also, the more layers you put on there. The more of a problem and hassle you are going to create for anyone else who ever tries reflooring the house later on. I've seen some of those messes. It's not pretty.

My opinion. Do it right the first time, not half-way.

Answer 3

If the existing ceramic tile job is bonded and in good condition structurally, you can tile over it. Generally, with a hardwood floor, you must put down an underlayment over it. If you don't, you will most likely have grout seams loosing there grout as the wood floor goes through seasons (humidity, moisture changes).

Answer 4

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news but you cannot install ceramic over either one. The new ceramic will not hold up applied to either surface. The best way to complete the project is to tear up the old hardwood and the old ceramic. Install a layer of tile backer(Hardi-backer Durock, etc). Then you can install the ceramic worry free.

Answer 5

Let me be the Odd man out here. To remove both flooring is a major time consuming job. I would (and have) place underlayment over both surfaces. Use thin set adhesive for the new tile.

Answer 6

You need to remove the old ceramic but you can put it over the hardwood as long as you use a cement board underlayment.

Answer 7

Remove both to the subfloor and lay durock or wonderboard down with screws. Thinset tile over the cement board. Anything else, the tiles will crack.

Answer 8

definitely remove the old ceramic. you can place on top, but it is gonna be more work to level your kitchen due to the stacking of the times. just get a hammer and crack them. depending on the size of the kitchen , shouldn't take too long. i would never do anything over hard woods. they are beautiful and add value to your house. i would suggest getting them redone.

Answer 9

you have to remove the old tile and clean and level the floor before going back with new tile,try the major home stores they give classes on this.

Answer 10

Unfortunately, to get the best out of your floor, would be to remove the old stuff and replace it with new. If it's as old as you say it is, you may want to check the plywood underneath. Make sure that it' not rotten also. good luck!