Get matched with top ceramic tile pros in Kenilworth, IL

You can lay tile directly on a plywood countertop, but if it’s a high-traffic surface in a kitchen, it’s better to add a moisture-resistant base. Plywood is susceptible to moisture, so if dampness seeps through from the surface around the sink or where you prep food, it can cause the plywood to warp, leading to grout damage, cracked tiles, or mold growth under the surface. 

You cannot tile directly over hot mop waterproofing because tile requires a smooth, solid surface to adhere properly. Additionally, the shower bed pan needs to be raised and sloped toward the drain to prevent water from pooling. However, you can hot mop and apply a sloped mortar bed over the top (to which the tile can then be adhered). 

When choosing between porcelain and ceramic tile, the best option depends on your specific needs, budget, and project application. Porcelain tile is generally more durable, denser, and harder than ceramic, making it a good choice for busy, high-traffic areas. It also offers superior moisture resistance, making it ideal for moisture-retaining spaces. However, porcelain is typically more expensive, and its hardness can make it brittle, potentially causing it to crack if a heavy object is dropped on it. In contrast, ceramic tile is a more budget-friendly option with lower material and installation costs. It is softer and easier to work with, making it a great choice for DIY projects. While not as durable as porcelain, ceramic is still a quality material suitable for many home applications, particularly small, decorative projects.

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.