When it comes to DIY projects around the home, you will have a difficult time finding one that is easier than peel-and-stick tiles. What if you have existing tiles? Can you put peel and stick over them?
Provided the tiles are prepared in advance, peel-and-stick tiles will be able to stick to them easily. This may include some additional preparation beyond cleaning but the project will go well.
When it comes to peel-and-stick tiles, there are a wide variety of options available. Some of these are going to be easier than others and there may be some that are better suited for use over title.
When you get right down to it, however, any type of peel-and-stick tile can work over existing tile. It doesn’t matter if it is on the wall, on the floor, or even on a countertop, it can dress up the area and make it look new.
Can You Put Peel And Stick Tile Over Existing Tile? (How To)
Before we get into the nuts and bolts of actually putting the peel-and-stick tile over the existing tile, there are a few things we need to discuss. These can really make a difference in your decision, and that is something that should be thought of in advance.
One of the reasons why you may want to put peel-and-stick tile over existing tile is because you are renting a place. Undoubtedly, this is a good way to change the look of someplace you are living but before you put anything over the existing tile, you really need to discuss it with the landlord.
As we will talk about in the next section, it is possible for these tiles to damage the tile underneath. The last thing you would want is to have to pay for an entire tile floor or to lose your security deposit when you move out.
In addition, you need to plan the project out very carefully. We are going to discuss planning further in this article, but why am I mentioning it now?
It’s important to understand that peel-and-stick tile is a one-time job. If you don’t get it done right, you’re going to have a difficult time getting it up again.
It’s not simply a matter of tearing up the tile and putting it back in place. You are either going to ruin the tile underneath or you will ruin the new tile when you try to change things out.
For now, let’s take a look at some of the reasons why you should consider your choice carefully. Considering these problems and then looking at the process of actually putting the peel-and-stick tile over the existing tile can help you to be successful with the project.
Should You Put Peel And Stick Tile Over Existing Tile?
When you do any type of DIY home improvement project, it’s important to know both the good and the bad associated with it. Doing so can help you to take advantage of the good and avoid the bad. What are the potential problems with putting peel-and-stick tile over existing tile?
Tile Damage – One of the biggest issues associated with putting peel-and-stick tile over existing tile is the possibility that you will damage the tile. Ceramic and other types of tile can be covered up effectively with peel and stick, but you could damage the underlying tile permanently.
Unfortunately, there is no way to completely avoid this problem. It needs to be kept in mind, however, because if you ever plan on going back to regular tile again, you need to be prepared for the possibility of damage.
Grout Lines – If you don’t prepare the floor properly in advance, you will probably have grout lines showing at some point or another. The biggest problem with grout lines showing is that it doesn’t show up right away.
This is especially a problem if you are putting the tile on the floor. Gravity will eventually have an effect and it will settle into those low areas. Cover up the grout lines effectively beforehand to make the floor flat and level to avoid this problem.
Resale Value – Although having a new peel-and-stick tile floor down can make us happy and proud of our home, it’s not going to be a big selling point. In fact, peel-and-stick tile may even make it more difficult for you to sell your home and it certainly doesn’t improve the value.
Moisture – One other issue to be aware of is the possibility of moisture problems. This could be a problem with water getting under the tile and causing it to peel up or moisture getting under it and allowing mold to grow.
There isn’t any way to completely avoid this problem but there are two things you can do to make it less likely.
1. Prepare the Subfloor – If you are putting peel-and-stick tile on a surface that is flat, clean, and level, you won’t have this problem. It will allow you to get any bubbles or pockets out from underneath the tile that could lead to the issue.
2. Sealant – If you are worried about the possibility of water getting under the peel-and-stick tile, you can always put a coat of sealant, such as polyurethane over it. The added layer of protection will help to avoid the issue.
What Tools Do You Need To Put Peel And Stick Tile Over Existing Tile?
Anytime you are doing a project you should gather the tools ahead of time and have them on hand. Here are some of the tools you may need when putting peel-and-stick tile over existing tiles.
Cleaning Supplies
Floor Stripper
Rags
4 Foot level
18 Inch level
Straight Edge
Tape Measures
Utility Knife with Blades
Pencil
Safety Glasses
Kneepads
Gloves
What Preparations Do You Need To Put Peel And Stick Tile Over Existing Tile?
Now that you are getting ready to do the job, it’s time to prepare. What can you do to prepare the existing tile so the peel-and-stick tile will work properly?
1. Check the Tile – Carefully look at the tile and test it to make sure it is free of defects. This includes fixing any loose tiles.
Tap on the floor with a mallet lightly and listen for any hollow-sounding areas. That is typically an indication of a loose tile that should be replaced.
2. Level – If you have any extreme high spots or low spots in the tile floor, they should be fixed and leveled at this point.
3. Strip – Use floor stripper to remove any grease and grime from the existing tile floor. You should then wash the floor to remove the stripper.
4. Clean – Make sure that you go over the floor several times to remove any dirt, dust, or grime that may exist. If there is anything on the existing tile floor, it will keep the peel-and-stick tile from sticking.
5. Measure – Measure the room carefully and purchase the tile that you need. Buy at least 10% and preferably 20% more than what you plan on using.
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6. Center – Next, measure from wall to wall and mark the center of the room. This will be the starting point where you will begin laying the tiles one by one.
How To Put Peel And Stick Tile Over Existing Tile
With the floor prepared, take the following steps to put the peel-and-stick tile over the existing tile.
1. Cut and Peel – Begin by putting a full tile in the center of the room and working from that direction. If any cuts are necessary to go around an obstacle, cut them with a utility knife and break the tile. You should cut the tile from the backside, marking the paper before you peel it.
2. Straighten – The first tile should be as straight as possible. If it is not straight, the error is going to be compounded as you continue to put the tiles around the room.
3. Smooth – As you put the tiles down in place, you will then need to run the side of your fist over the tile to properly adhere it to the floor and remove any possible bubbles. This will help to ensure that the floor is going to stick for the long term.
Copyright article owner is ReadyToDiy.com for this article. This post was first published on December 15, 2022.
4. Adjacent Tiles – Place any adjacent tiles as close in position as possible. You will be able to lightly move the tile if you haven’t stuck it solid to the floor to get it in position. Ideally, it should be in position as soon as the glue touches the floor.
5. Edges – When you reach the edges, you will have to cut the tiles to size and put them in position. Generally speaking, you don’t have to leave a gap for expansion and contraction.
You can put peel and stick tile over existing tile after the existing tile is cleaned, leveled, and properly prepared. Peel and stick tile is a great way to change the look of an existing tile floor quickly and easily.
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ReadyToDIY is the owner of this article. This post was published on December 15, 2022.