So you’re looking to give your walls or flooring a brand new look but don’t want to suffer the strenuous task of uplifting your old tiles? Worry not – if the original Tiles are in decent condition and were installed correctly in the first place, then it’s perfectly fine to tile over them. Just be mindful that any surface damage like cracks or uneven areas will very likely cause issues later down the line, so will need to be rectified before new tiles can be laid.

Mould and discoloration in the grout usually indicate that the tiles have absorbed water – which could eventually rot your new tiles from underneath. In this case, you would do better to take up the old tiles and start from scratch.

Also, be careful that your new tiles are not too heavy, as too great a load could cause foundational issues later down the line.

To begin, sand down any bumps and ridges – however small and insignificant they may appear – and secure any loose tiles with adhesive. Next, lay out your new tiles, cutting them to fit around any units and fixtures as necessary. When you’re happy with your layout, it’s time to prepare your surface. With a degreasing agent, wipe over your old tiles and remove any dust or residue to allow your adhesive to bond properly.

A thin-set adhesive is more suitable for tiling bathrooms and wet rooms, where walls and floors are subject to high levels of moisture. Use a spreading tool or notched trowel to level out the adhesive and press your new tiles down, one section at a time.

Use a ready mixed grout between your newly laid tiles, ideally covering the whole area in one job. Wipe over with a lightly damp sponge to remove any excess and give a good 24 hours to allow for your new tiles to set properly.