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You can technically install tile over tile, but we don’t suggest it. Installing tile over any surface that isn’t a completely flat and prepared subfloor will result in a shoddy overall job, uneven flooring, tiles that don’t adhere, extra weight, gaps, cracks, and room for moisture and dirt to enter. For the best results, only install new tile on a flat, sanded surface like subflooring or concrete that is prepared for tile.

If you have asbestos tile and would rather tile over it than remove it, or if your existing tile is completely flat and bonded tightly to the floor, you may be able to tile over existing tile. But experts recommend thinking twice before you do.

Yes, it’s always a good idea to keep a box or two of spare tiles after a home renovation project. Tiles can crack from improper installation, heavy foot traffic, and impact from drops. Having some extra tile on hand can make replacement fast, easy, and affordable. Plus, some manufacturers might discontinue particular colors or styles, and slight variations in tile colors between batches could mean mismatched tiles even if your product isn’t discontinued. Having a few spare tiles in storage can help avoid these issues, as well.

A cement backer board is not needed for laying tile on concrete. Sometimes referred to as a cementitious backer unit, or CBU, backer board should be used if the subfloor is plywood or OSB. The backer board provides a base on which to install the tiles that isn’t as likely to be damaged by any accidental water seepage as natural materials would be.

Terracotta tile is a broad term for clay tile that’s been fired in a kiln, and Saltillo tile is a specific type of terracotta tile produced in Saltillo, Mexico. In addition to Saltillo, terracotta tile comes in a range of other shades and styles. You’ll often find it used in buildings throughout Mexico, southern Europe, and the western United States.