*
I want to install new ceramic tile over an existing (ugly!)ceramic tile top. Can I install new tile with thinset directly over old tile? If so, is any prep needed to ensure a good bond? Or, should I use a 1/4 ” cement board and thinset new tile? Thankfully, no existing bullnose tile to deal with. Appreciate any tips.
Discussion Forum
Discussion Forum
Up Next
Video Shorts
Featured Story

Listeners write in about fireplaces and ask questions about whole-house ventilation, traditional porch flooring, and gutter sealants.
Featured Video
How to Install Cable Rail Around Wood-Post CornersHighlights
Fine Homebuilding Magazine
- Home Group
- Antique Trader
- Arts & Crafts Homes
- Bank Note Reporter
- Cabin Life
- Cuisine at Home
- Fine Gardening
- Fine Woodworking
- Green Building Advisor
- Garden Gate
- Horticulture
- Keep Craft Alive
- Log Home Living
- Military Trader/Vehicles
- Numismatic News
- Numismaster
- Old Cars Weekly
- Old House Journal
- Period Homes
- Popular Woodworking
- Script
- ShopNotes
- Sports Collectors Digest
- Threads
- Timber Home Living
- Traditional Building
- Woodsmith
- World Coin News
- Writer's Digest
Replies
*
I want to install new ceramic tile over an existing (ugly!)ceramic tile top. Can I install new tile with thinset directly over old tile? If so, is any prep needed to ensure a good bond? Or, should I use a 1/4 " cement board and thinset new tile? Thankfully, no existing bullnose tile to deal with. Appreciate any tips.
*
Michael:
Take a look under the cabinets and see how the counter top is attached. Just a guess but I bet the tile are a set on plywood with maybe some cement backerboard. If this is the case just unscrew the countertop and haul it away giving you fresh start. Scroll down and read the post of prepping a countertop for tile.
I dont recommend setting over the existing tile but if you do you need to rough up the surface of the existing tile. Install with thinset and use a tile larger than what is installed now.
Good Luck