Install Shower Floor Tile Over Existing Tile

In our project we set the tile for the wall opposite the shower door first.

Install shower floor tile over existing tile.

We wanted to install over the existing tile floor for a much cleaner look. Save time by setting several tiles at once. Installing tile over tile however does have some downsides also. Before you start setting tile take some measurements and see how the tiles will all lay out image 1.

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. Purchase a tub surround kit compatible with your existing tub from your local home improvement store. These kits are not only easy to install but they also look nice and seal the area behind them from water. 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.

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. This assumes that the floor underneath is solid concrete and that there are no cracks in the existing tile indicating underlying problems in the concrete. On the ceiling and floor of the shower we used 2 x 2 tiles and on shower walls 2 x 4 tiles. We are installing a dreamline corner shower base in an existing bathroom.

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. Removing existing tile before installing new tile is recommended however sometimes old tile can be very difficult or almost impossible to remove. The installation instructions tell you to apply enough bedding material mortar to support the entire bottom of the base. Installing a tub surround over old shower tiles is one of the fastest ways to brighten up a bathroom.

In fact pros do it all the time.