DIY- Fixing New Tiles Over Existing Ones - By: kathy jhones

Tiles have remained the most commonly used material in home improvement projects. This applies to both professional and DIY projects. One thing you will realize if you intend to carry out DIY tiling is that removing existing tiles is a very costly process. This is due to the likelihood of pulling off plasterboard or even the wall plaster as the tiles are removed. This will easily turn your DIY project into a full project requiring assistance from trades-people. Remember some projects such as bathroom refurbishment should be carried out in the shortest time possible to minimize the inconveniences. With every trades person you add to your project, the higher the likelihood that your project will stretch a day, more which will ultimately lead to weeks of inconvenience.

The best option to make your DIY tiling project work is installing new tiles over the existing ones. Most tillers do not prefer this option but if proper care is taken, it should not result in any problems. The following steps will ensure that your project is a success.

First, make sure the existing tiles adhere to the wall as firmly as possible. Remember, no matter how well your new tiles are fixed the overall result will be determined by the surface over which they are installed in. if the old tiles are hanging by a thread to the wall, they will ultimately come off pulling off your new tiles in the process. To verify whether the old tiles are secured to the walls properly, you can simply tap them. A hollow sound will indicate they are loosely fitted.

The second thing is to make sure that the existing tiles are properly cleaned before any installation can begin. Presence of contaminants will hamper proper curing of the newly installed tiles. The cleaning should be done with an effective cleaning agent to ensure effective removal of all the contaminants.

Estimate the combined weight of the new tiles you are fixing with that of the existing tiles. This is because plasterboard can only hold weight up to a certain limit therefore this consideration is important. You should also consider the size of the tiles already fixed on the wall. Trying to fix larger tiles than those already on the wall will cause problems.

Check the adhesive you intend to use. It should be effective when used on the surface of the existing tiles. Otherwise, your effort will be fruitless. The best way is to check the instructions on the packaging provided by the manufacturer. This will ensure that you have the right materials.

Finally, before you make your final decision to fix the new tiles over the existing ones, it is important to consider all the pros and cons. For instance in-case there are some loose tiles among the existing ones, you might be forced to remove the whole cover for best results. Another consideration is the aesthetic you intend to achieve. If the existing tiles are not completely flat, laying new tiles over them will only amplify the imperfection. It is therefore important to consider all these options before embarking on your DIY project.

About the Author

Learn DIY about Tiling and Wall today at our website.

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/kathy-jhones/102142

Additional Articles From - Home | Business | Home based business