How Do You Tile Over A Tile Fireplace?
Tiling over a fireplace surround that already has tile attached is easier than you might think. Years ago, most people would tear out the old tile and replace it with the new. Nowadays, it is quite possible to tile over the old tile and avoid the time and money of cleanup and backerboard installation. The average do-it-yourself homeowner can cover their old tile fireplace surround with new tile in one to two days, depending on the size and scope of the project. Remove any loose tiles from the fireplace by gently prying them away with a putty knife. Use a wire brush to clean the excess loose materials from the void. Fill the damaged tile slot using multipurpose thinset mortar and a putty knife. Make sure that the thinset is even with the surface of the existing tile. Allow the thinset to dry for 24 hours before proceeding. Rough the surface of the old tile with 60-grit sandpaper. This will remove any slick surface for better adhesion. Wipe the surface down using TSP (trisodium phosphate
