can I install backsplash tiles over top of old ones?

Answer 1

It can be done, but you may want to think twice about it. There are thinset mortars you could use to bond to existing tile but it isn't cheap and it NOT really a DIY type job.

I've used an epoxy type mortar made for the job once. As I recall it had a very short pot life, meaning mix small batches and use it quickly. You would also need to carefully clean the existing tile to remove any dirt, sealers, etc.

Any tile distributor should have it, just explain what you are doing. And follow the instructions well.

Answer 2

Well, the other answerers are right. The old tiles dont provide the roughness needed for the thinset to hold. If you can roughen the surface up a bit that would do the trick. If it is outside a bit of sandblasting could save you a lot of work, though inside the sand makes this option unviable. I would try a belt sander and a vacuum, put a carbide belt on the sander and take the glazing off the tile.

Answer 3

Tile, especially glazed/fired is essentially glass, and no porous. That will equate to not allowing a viable surface for thinset mortar certainly, to adhere the new to the old.

You could attempt the task with Liquid Nails, or some brand of contractor adhesive or mastick, but over a long term it won't hold well.

One point of the best possibility for adhesion will be the grout lines between the old tiles. If you offset the new, and possibly use a different size, you might luck out and have at least 1 contact point more valid than the tile surfaces. If you're really fortunate you may hit 2 spots, but even at those your only going to have 1/8 or 1/4 inch of an abrasive surface to hold the mastic and hold it to the back of the new tile.

Steven Wolf

Answer 4

It wouldn't be a good idea to install ceramic tile over tile on a vertical surface. The adhesive wouln't stick well enough. Remove the old tile first.

Answer 5

Clean the old tiles.
Get some GE silicone II adhesive and put dabs on each tile.Stick the new tiles on top.
Let dry 24 hours.
If you ever manage to separate the two layers of tiles then you're a magician!

Answer 6

Indeed. This is done frequently on back splashes, fireplace surrounds and floors. Generally cheaper and easier then tearing out and replacing but still an onerous task, none the less. Click the link below for a tutorial on how it's done.
http://www.thetiledoctor.com/repair/tileovertile.cfm

Answer 7

If you are talking about ceramic tile, then no, you have to rip out the old stuff and put in new backer boards.

Answer 8

yes you can you need to use a product called flex bond you can even stick tiles to glass with it it is madd by custom but i can not think of a way to cover up your edges so the will still show

Answer 9

if you want the new tiles to stick well, you need to take the old tiles off first.