Retiling your living area is an ideal way to refresh its look and feel. However, homeowners often hesitate to do so because of its required planning process and time commitment.
For instance, selecting the best tiles for the application and preparing the surface before installation takes careful consideration and effort. So, it’s not unusual to worry that this “must-do” revonative project can disrupt your already busy schedule.
Despite the time challenges, you’ll want to avoid putting off a retiling project, as damaged or discolored tiles can pose a safety hazard, particularly in areas like the bathroom or kitchen where water is frequently present.
Outdated or worn tiles can also negatively impact the overall appearance of your living area and potentially lower its value.
Need to Replace Outdated Tile?
When you visit the Tile X Design showroom, you can browse an extensive selection of tile products. Our team will assist you in selecting the best tiles for your application, taking into account the size, style, and material type that will work best for your individual project.
In addition to providing tile selection guidance, our team can also answer your questions about the renovation process. For example, we can offer advice on preparing the surface for tile installation and recommend installers who can perform the job to your satisfaction.
Tile X Design’s Retiling Guide
Whether it’s your floors, shower walls, or kitchen backsplash, we’ll explore some warning signs that it’s time to retile and provide helpful insights on how to get the retiling process started!
5 Signs You Need to Retile
- Cracked or damaged tiles: Cracked tile can be sharp and cause injuries if someone steps on or brushes against them. They can also allow water to seep into the subfloor or wall, leading to further damage and mold growth.
- Discolored or stained tiles: Discolored or stained tiles can make your living area look old and dingy. If you’ve tried cleaning your tiles and they still look discolored or stained, it’s time to retile.
- Outdated or worn tiles: If you simply don’t like the look of your current tiles anymore or they look outdated, retiling is a great way to update your living area’s overall appearance and make it look more modern.
- Loose or hollow-sounding tiles: If you notice that your tiles sound hollow or feel loose when you walk on them, it’s time to consider retiling. Loose tiles can become a tripping hazard and can also lead to water damage.
- Mold or mildew growth: Mold and mildew can grow in the grout between your tiles, particularly in areas with high humidity like the bathroom or kitchen. This is a prime reason why you can’t wait “too long” to retile!
How To Retile Your Application: Step by Step
Measure the surface area
Before you start retiling, measure the surface area to determine the amount of tiles you’ll need. Add about 10% extra to allow for cuts, breakages, and mistakes.
Remove old tiles
If you’re retiling over an existing tiled surface, remove the old tiles. Use a chisel and hammer to pry the tiles off the surface. Be careful not to damage the wall or floor.
Prepare the surface
Ensure the surface is clean, level, and dry. If necessary, patch up any holes or cracks. If you are tiling over a wooden floor, lay down a cement backer board for stability.
Plan the layout
Determine the pattern and layout of the tiles. You can use a chalk line to mark the center of the surface to guide the placement of the tiles.
Apply adhesive
Apply a thin layer of tile adhesive to the surface using a notched trowel. Start in one corner and work your way outwards.
Place tiles
Carefully place the tiles onto the adhesive, applying even pressure to ensure they are level and properly set. Use tile spacers to maintain even gaps between tiles.
Cut tiles
Measure and cut tiles to fit around the edges of the surface or around obstacles such as pipes or electrical outlets. Use a tile cutter or tile saw for precision cuts.
Allow adhesive to dry
Let the adhesive dry for at least 24 hours before grouting the tiles.
Apply grout
Mix the grout according to the manufacturer’s instructions and apply it to the gaps between the tiles, using a grout float. Wipe off any excess grout with a damp sponge.
Seal the tiles
Once the grout has dried, apply a sealant to the tiles to protect them from moisture and stains.
Get Inspired By Our Showroom
Before you start anything, schedule an appointment at our showroom! During your one-on-one consultation, you’ll have the opportunity to browse our selection of tiles, ask questions, and even get tile samples to take home with you. This is a great way to get a better sense of how the tiles will look in your space and help you make informed decisions about which tiles to purchase.
You can also stop by our showroom during regular business hours.