If you need to redo the tiles in your bathtub, it is best to start by removing the old tiles. To do this, you will need to use a hammer and chisel to chip away the grout and tiles from the wall. If some of the tiles are stuck to the wall, you will likely have to use an immersion heater or a heat gun to soften the adhesive that’s keeping them attached.
After the old tiles and grout have been removed, you will need to clean the wall surface to remove dirt and debris. Once the wall is clean, you can start laying the new tiles. Be sure to use mortar to set the tiles in place.
To finish the job you will have to grout the seams between the tiles. When the grout is dry, use a damp cloth to wipe the tiles and grout to give them a more finished look.
Can you tile over tile in a bathtub surround?
Yes, you can tile over tile in a bathtub surround. The key is to make sure the surface is clean and properly prepared. You’ll need to remove any soap scum, grime, and other debris, then fill any cracks and chips with an appropriate filler.
Once the surface is prepped, use a quality thinset adhesive and apply the tiles as normal. To ensure the best adhesion, use a notched trowel to spread the adhesive and level and press the tile into position using a slight twisting motion.
After the tiles have been set and the adhesive is dry, grout the joints to complete the job.
How do you cover tile around a bathtub?
Covering tile around a bathtub involves first removing the existing tile if necessary. If necessary, make sure to clear out the existing grout or adhesive. Once cleared out, you can use sealant or caulk to cover the exposed surfaces.
Make sure to clean the area with a damp cloth and to wait for it to dry before you begin. Then, after applying the sealant or caulk, use a trowel or putty knife to spread it evenly around the edges of the tub.
Once complete, apply a sealer over the area and allow it to dry before adding a new layer of tile. Be sure that the new tile is level and securely fastened before placing grout into the joints. Dispense the grout over the area with a rubber float and then wait for it to harden before cleaning up each tile’s surface with a damp sponge.
Finally, make sure to apply a tile sealer on top of the grout to protect it from moisture.
How can I redo my tile without replacing it?
If you are looking to redo your tile without replacing it, there are a few options. One option is to refinish the tile with a new glaze. You can resurface the tile by sanding it down and adding a new tile glaze.
This will give it a brand new look without having to replace it. Another option is to regrout the tile. Cracking or crumbling grout can be replaced with a new grout to give the tile a refreshed look.
You can also use tile paint to give it a more modern look depending on your taste. Before implementing any of these options, it is important to thoroughly clean the tile first to ensure the best results.
How do you make old bathroom tiles look new?
The easiest and least expensive way is to simply give the tiles a thorough cleaning. Start by using a stiff brush or a non-abrasive scrubber to remove any trapped dirt and residue. Be sure to thoroughly rinse out the scrubber between usages to prevent scratches and stains.
You can then use a specially formulated tile cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and water to remove soap scum or calcium deposits. After washing, it is important to dry and buff the tiles with a soft cloth.
For more intense cleaning, you may need to invest in an electric buffer or a steam cleaner to remove any deep stains or etching. For tougher areas, you might also consider using sandpaper or an abrasive cleaning pad.
If the bathroom tiles are beyond repair, you can also consider refinishing or restoring them. Tile refinishing kits are available for purchase, and allow you to give the tiles a fresh look with a new color and finish.
Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the old tiles with new ones. This is especially cost-effective if you have plain tile with no intricate design. When selecting replacement tiles, be sure to check that they are compatible with existing tiles, as tiles from different manufacturers may not fit together properly.
Can you put tile over tile?
Yes, you can put tile over tile, but it is not recommended by the experts. Installing new tiles on top of an existing tile floor can cause a number of problems. Over time, the added weight may cause the underlying tiles to crack and the adhesive used to hold the tiles in place may not bond properly with the underlying tiles.
It is also important to make sure the tile you are putting over the existing tile is suitable for the application. Very thick tiles may not be able to lie flat on the older tile, and may cause cracking in the older tiles.
Cleaning the existing tile will also be far more difficult if it’s covered with new tiles. For this reason, it is generally recommended that you lay new tiles directly over the subfloor instead of over existing tiles.
How can I cover my tile floors cheaply?
Covering tile floors can be done cheaply by utilizing a few different solutions. One is to use a coat of paint specifically designed for floor tile. Usually, you only need to do one coat to get the coverage you’re looking for, but several brands may require a second coat for extra protection.
To make sure that the paint adheres to the tile, make sure you clean the surface of the tile first, and then use a primer to help the paint stick.
Another option is to use vinyl floor tiles. This is an easy way to cover your tiles while still maintaining a look of floor tile. Vinyl is also dirt and water resistant, making it ideal for damp areas such as the kitchen or bathroom.
These tiles usually come in a variety of colors and patterns, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.
If you’d rather have a more natural look, you can use linoleum or cork floor tiles to cover your existing tile floors. Linoleum tiles come in a variety of colors and patterns, while cork floor tiles give you a more natural feel.
Both are water and dirt-resistant, making them a great choice for any area of the home.
No matter which option you choose, covering tile floors can be done cheaply without sacrificing quality or style. The aim is to create your own custom flooring that is protected from dirt and damage, and still looks great.
How do you update existing tiles?
Updating existing tiles in your home can be a relatively simple task. First, you will need to determine what type of tile you have. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are the most common, but many people also install natural stone, such as marble and granite, and metal tiles.
Once you have identified the type of tile, you can select the appropriate method for updating it.
For ceramic and porcelain tiles, you may be able to paint them directly. You will need to choose a paint designed specifically for tiles, which typically consists of a primer, coating, and sealant. If the tiles are already in good condition and there are no chips or gaps, painting can be a great way to give them a fresh new look.
If the existing tile has seen better days, you may want to consider replacing it. This requires removing the existing tile and installing the new tile in its place. This may require a professional if you don’t feel comfortable with the installation process.
Natural stone tiles, such as marble and granite, should always be installed by a professional to ensure proper installation and to prevent damage to the stone.
Metal tiles can also be updated with paint, but you will need to use a high-temperature paint designed specifically for metal tiles. Again, this will require proper preparation and priming of the surface prior to painting.
No matter what type of tiles you are updating, be sure to research the best methods for the tile material and take the necessary steps to prepare the surface prior to painting or installation. This will ensure the best results and help your tiles look like new.
How much does it cost to tile a tub surround?
The cost to tile a tub surround will vary depending on the materials and labor required for the project. Generally, the cost of tiling a tub surround can range from as little as a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars.
The cost of the materials needed to tile a tub surround will depend on the size of the surround and the type of tile selected. The cost of labor will depend on the complexity of the job and contractors’ labor rates.
For example, if a basic subway tile is used to tile a small tub surround, the cost of materials and labor could be as low as $500. However, if more complex tile designs, such as mosaic tile, are used for a larger tub surround, the cost could increase to around $1000 or more.
How much does a tile shower surround cost?
The cost of a tile shower surround depends on multiple factors such as the size of the shower, how much tile you would like to use and whether you are doing a simple pattern or a more intricate pattern.
Generally, the cost of a tile shower surround can range between $2,000 – $25,000 depending on the size of the project, the quality of the tile, and the complexity of the pattern. Additionally, other factors that can contribute to the total cost of the project include the cost of labor, waterproofing the walls, fixtures, sealers, grout, and accessories.
In some cases, additional factors such as the installation of niches, benches, or ledges can also add more to the total cost.
Is it cheaper to tile a shower or use a surround?
Typically it is cheaper to tile a shower than use a shower surround. Shower surrounds can range in cost anywhere from $200 – $600 and require more labor to install. A tiled shower requires the purchase of grout and tiles which tend to be less expensive.
The cost of tiling a shower usually ranges from $400 – $2000, depending on the size of the shower and the quality of the materials used. The installation of tile typically requires the use of a professional or someone with experience using tile.
In general, tiling a shower will be cheaper than using a shower surround.
What’s the average cost to install shower surround?
The average cost to install a shower surround depends on a variety of factors, such as the size of the shower, the material and design of the surround, and any extras such as shelving and seating. An entry level 3-wall shower surround, for example, can cost anywhere from about $500 to $1,200 for materials and installation.
This cost can increase significantly if the shower surround is larger in size, made from more expensive materials, or includes additional installation services such as grouting and caulking. Basic plumbing and tile work may also need to be performed, adding to the overall cost.
On average, labor costs for installation of a shower surround typically range from $200 to $400. To get a more accurate estimate of the cost to install a shower surround, it is best to get professional quotes from local contractors.
Which is cheaper tile or prefab shower?
The answer to which is cheaper tile or prefab shower really depends on a variety of factors. The cost of tile can vary widely based on the type of tile, installation complexity, and the size of the space you are trying to tile.
Meanwhile, prefab showers can range in cost depending on the type of material used, the amount of prefabrication, the finish, and the size of the enclosure. Generally, if you are looking for a more basic, cost-effective option, pre-fabricated showers tend to be the more cost-effective choice as they tend to cost significantly less than custom tiles.
However, if you are looking for something more decorative or luxurious, tile may be the better option as it can be customized and designed to fit your exact preferences. Ultimately, the best way to determine which option is the most cost-effective is to shop around and compare prices on both tile and prefab shower options.
What is the material to use for shower walls?
The material to use for shower walls depends on your personal preference. Common materials include ceramic tiles, marble, stone, glass, and plastic. Ceramic tiles are easy to clean, affordable and come in a wide variety of colors, textures, and shapes.
Marble and stone can add a luxurious look to your shower. Glass and plastic give a modern look and light reflective qualities. Waterproof wall panels are another option as they consist of a PVC plastic core and a protective laminate print layer and are available in a range of designs and finishes.
When deciding on a material, you should consider how much maintenance it will require and if it is slip-resistant.
Are tub surrounds cheaper than tile?
It depends on the materials and quality you are looking for. Tub surrounds are generally much easier and faster to install, which may make them more cost effective in the end. However, the cost of purchasing a tub surround depends on the material you choose.
Generally, basic vinyl or plastic tub surrounds are the most affordable. However, they tend to look lower quality and can not always hold up well against water. Higher quality tub surrounds, such as acrylic or fiberglass, will cost more upfront but are more durable and look nicer.
Tile is typically more expensive than any type of tub surround. Depending on the type of tile you purchase, the cost can increase substantially. Additionally, tile can be more labor intensive to install, driving labor costs up as well.
Additionally, tile can require special grout sealers and waterproofing treatments that can add to the upfront costs.
In summary, depending on the materials you choose, tub surrounds may be cheaper than tile. However, if you want the durability and look that tile offers, you may have to pay more upfront.
Is tile better than fiberglass shower?
The answer to this question really depends on personal preference. Both tile and fiberglass showers have a range of benefits and drawbacks.
Tile is considered a classic, timeless material and its longevity means that it can last for decades in a bathroom. On the downside, tile could require more maintenance. Some tile can be prone to chipping, cracking, and staining, and grout can be prone to mold.
It’s also much more expensive than fiberglass, making it a more costly choice.
Fiberglass is a much more cost-effective material and it’s much easier to maintain than tile. It won’t crack, stain, or chip, and it’s not prone to mold and mildew. It’s also light, so it’s easy to install and it can be cut to fit a range of sizes.
However, it’s not as durable as tile and it won’t last as long. It can also look less attractive than tile and its glossy finish can be hard to keep clean.
Ultimately, the best choice between tile and fiberglass shower depends on your needs, budget, and preferences.
Is acrylic or tile shower better?
It really depends on your aesthetic and practical preferences. On the aesthetic side, acrylic showers come in a variety of colors and styles and are easy to clean and maintain. The downside is that they can look less finished or polished and look outdated over time.
Tile showers on the other hand offer more design options, which can range from timeless to modern, due to the availability of various materials, colors, and laying patterns. However, this style of shower can be more difficult to keep clean, as grout can become an issue over time.
When it comes to practical aspects, acrylic showers are more comfortable because they are softer to walk on, easier to enter/exit due to fewer edges, and require less maintenance. The only downside is that acrylic can easily become scratched or cracked from aged pressure or hard objects being dropped.
Tile showers offer a higher level of water resistance and are more durable than acrylic, but require more maintenance such as sealing and regrouting due to the potential for water damage over time.
Ultimately, what’s best for your individual shower is going to be based on personal preference. If you are looking for a low-maintenance option with a softer walking surface, an acrylic shower may be the right choice.
But, if you’re after a more stylish look and don’t mind more upkeep, tile may be better suited for you.