Do I need to remove old grout before installing new tile?

• <div><p>No, you don’t need to remove the old grout before installing new tile over existing tile. In fact, the old grout helps fill in gaps between tiles, creating a more even surface for the new layer. However, it's important to ensure that the <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-clean-tile-and-grout.htm">grout is clean</a>, solid, and free of cracks or crumbling areas. Damaged grout should be repaired or replaced before proceeding. Cleaning the surface thoroughly and filling any low spots will help the new adhesive bond properly and ensure a smooth, stable installation.</p></div>

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TRUSTED BY MERRILL, MI HOMEOWNERS

4.5
Average homeowner rating
85
Verified ceramic tile services reviews

Verified Reviews for Ceramic Tile Service pros in Merrill, MI

*The Angi rating for Ceramic Tile Service companies in Merrill, MI is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Ceramic Tile Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Ceramic Tile Service companies in Merrill, MI is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Ceramic Tile Service needs.

Last update on November 14, 2025

Reviewed in October 2023
If I could give a negative star I would. Buyer beware. In 2021 we needed flooring fast. Sales person Tony promised us top of the line flooring and installation. Said “not a crappy Home Depot job”. Spent 24000.00 dollars for carpet and LVT. Had ceramic tile down and they said it did not need to...
KAREN'S CARPETMAX
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Reviewed in July 2021
Worst experience imaginable. These people are complete slobs. No care for your home whatsoever. Do not hire them. These people are an absolute embarrassment to good contractors. Absolute slobs. Trails of debris everywhere they go. No prep. No care for your home. Paint all over the hardwood...
R-N-S Home Improvement
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Reviewed in March 2018
Joern does excellent work. He did our upstairs bathroom shower tile and floor tile and many other projects. We depend on Joern frequently to do projects for us. Will continue hiring Him for our projects! Cathy McLeod
McHandyMan LLC
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Reviewed in April 2017
It went absolutely horrible. The work was done this past Tuesday, the 4th. I got home from work that day and started to look around at the work performed. I immediately saw signs that what I asked for, did not get done very well or not at all. It was a bit late in the evening, but I was so upset...
Maid in Michigan
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Reviewed in June 2015
When the installer came and I reminded him- HE SAID NO.. not on his workorder he called his boss who also said no I went back to Loews and the manager said she would look into it I soon got a call saying they would do it for $55 a tile and I already had the tile /glue/...
LOWES
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Reviewed in February 2015
I think the older person at this location is named Rick. As noted in several other reviews of this establishment, Rick has a history of verbal promises which he does not keep. Our tile purchase turned out to be one box short of one size and 21 tiles too many of another. Trying to sensibly...
Trends In Tile
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Reviewed in December 2014
This project was very large and required extensive demolition as well as new construction. The work also necessitated sensitivity to the architectural features of the old house to preserve its original character. Care was taken with chandeliers, wood flooring ceramic tile and plumbing fixtures...
L Knauft Construction
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Reviewed in September 2013
Tile floors were not level. Walls not level. Tiles were not flush. Showers did not have properly installed shower liners. Rich would not fix mistakes. We had to replace all bathroom walls and tear out drains.
CANVASBACK TILE & MARBLE INC
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Reviewed in August 2011
Sometimes, he doesn't get back to you when you think he will. He kind of lacks in the phone call department, but he does a great job when he's here. His prices are great. He is going to do some ceramic tile tomorrow.
MIKE YANTA REMODLING
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Reviewed in September 2010
I spent $1600 on the job. They did a kitchen tile project. It was an excellent experience. They showed up on time and did the work as specified. The cost was very reasonable compared to quotes I had received from other companies.
Husband For A Day Inc
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Find Ceramic tile pros in Merrill

Advanced Flooring Design

4.98(

)

•Approved Pro

Advanced Flooring Design

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

112 local quotes requested

Advanced Flooring Design is the #1 source for all your flooring needs! We specialize in all natural wood flooring, laminates, tile, carpet, & vinyl plank installations. insured & with over 20 years of experience in the industry, we guarantee the highest quality! In addition, a lifetime installation warranty is our promise to all our customers! We also offer free in-home estimates that will allow you to meet us personally. Thanks for giving us the opportunity to assist you with your next flooring project!

"Joe and his son are a professional, nice and a great to work with them , they did my floor and remodel my kitchen with a new cabinets, if there are more than five star I will not hesitate , Joe is very neat and he is not cutting corners, came on time he promised and finished on time . I strongly recommend him ."

Frank R on July 2025

"Joe and his son are a professional, nice and a great to work with them , they did my floor and remodel my kitchen with a new cabinets, if there are more than five star I will not hesitate , Joe is very neat and he is not cutting corners, came on time he promised and finished on time . I strongly recommend him ."

Frank R on July 2025

UMBERTO'S CERAMIC TILE INSTLTN

New on AngiNew on Angi

•Approved Pro

UMBERTO'S CERAMIC TILE INSTLTN

New on AngiNew on Angi

•Approved Pro

21 local quotes requested

Free onsite estimate

Transform your home with the beauty and durability of ceramic tile. At Umberto's Ceramic Tile Installation, we specialize in creating stunning tile installations that will enhance any space. Our team of skilled professionals is dedicated to providing exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. Whether you're looking to update your kitchen backsplash or revamp your bathroom, we have the expertise to bring your vision to life. Contact us today to discuss your ceramic tile project and let us show you why we're the top choice for homeowners in Flint and Saginaw.

Midland Home Remodeling

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Midland Home Remodeling

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9 years of experience

Midland Home Remodeling provides free estimates for almost any home improvement project in the Tri-City / Mid-Michigan area. We hold a state of Michigan builders license, and we are insured. Please contact us via phone (989) 513-4413 or email. We are happy to provide a free estimate for the following home remodel projects. Bathroom, basement, kitchen, drywall, flooring, framing, painting, siding, soffits, gutter, door replacement, roof repairs, chimney, ceramic tile, bath, and just about any other home construction project. Contact Us To Request Free Remodel Estimate

MDL Property Management

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MDL Property Management

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47 local quotes requested

Welcome to MDL Property Management, your trusted partner in home transformations since 1986! With a rich history of successfully flipping over 400 homes and revitalizing more than 250 apartment units, we bring decades of expertise and a passion for excellence to every project we undertake. At MDL, no remodel is too big or small for us. We thrive on turning your vision into reality, whether it's a complete home makeover or minor repairs. As an owner-operated business, we take pride in our hands-on approach, ensuring that every detail is meticulously crafted to meet the highest standards. What sets us apart is our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Our team of skilled professionals is dedicated to delivering exceptional results, on time and within budget. We understand the importance of your investment, and we strive to add value to every property we touch. Now, we're excited to extend our services to third-party projects, offering our expertise in home remodels and repairs. If you're looking for a reliable partner with a proven track record, MDL Property Management is here for you. Let us bring our decades of experience, integrity, and excellence to your next project. Discover the MDL difference - where passion meets precision, and your property dreams become a reality. Contact us today to discuss how we can elevate your home or investment through our unparalleled remodeling and property management services.

All Ways Fixing

5.00(

)

All Ways Fixing

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

My main goal for every job is to do excellent work, with efficiency, at an affordable rate. I know having a stranger come to your home to help you can be uncomfortable, so I can reassure you that I am a friendly person and I will communicate exactly what am doing in as much detail as you want. I understand every person and need is very different, so I will listen to what you need, carefully, and work with you to find a solution.

"Really well. Very competent and knew how to fix our problems, taking over getting the materials needed and doing the repairs and replacements in 1 day."

Raven G on May 2024

"Really well. Very competent and knew how to fix our problems, taking over getting the materials needed and doing the repairs and replacements in 1 day."

Raven G on May 2024

J & J interior renovations LLC.

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J & J interior renovations LLC.

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Free onsite estimate

We are a owner operated business with over 30 years experience between the two of us. We specialize in kitchen and bath renovation but we also do flooring, tile work, and painting. We take great pride in all the work we do. We are also very competitive with our pricing with free quotes.

Unified building solutions

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Unified building solutions

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3 years of experience

handyman services, general contractor and interior/exterior remodeling.

Trent Jones Tile

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Trent Jones Tile

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Free onsite estimate

Custom style for your custom tile! Trent Jones Tile specializes in custom showers, bathrooms, kitchens and backsplashes. We are an owner-operated company with 15+ years of experience. We wouldn't put anything in your home that we wouldn't put in our own!

Ryan's Remodeling

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Ryan's Remodeling

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25 years of experience

One Call solves it all. I specialize in smaller projects that encompass multiple trades. Too small for the big guys and too annoying for the homeowner to coordinate all the different trades and there schedules. Courteous Professional Timely Fair

Dora & Sons Renovations Inc

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Dora & Sons Renovations Inc

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We are a family owned small business Licensed builder specializing in all aspects of remodeling/new builds from new roof and siding to kitchen remodeling to building your dream home We also do maintenance and repair work

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Showing 1-10 of 150

Ceramic Tile questions, answered by experts

Grout and caulk are commonly used together, especially in bathrooms. Grout goes between the tiles and keeps them sturdy and in place on the walls or floor. Caulk goes in corners or where two different materials meet (like where the bathtub meets the tile) to create a waterproof seal. However, they are not interchangeable—you shouldn't use caulk to adhere tile and shouldn’t use mortar if you need a waterproof seal.

When tiling over concrete, you should install an anti-fracture membrane after the concrete has been prepared. The anti-fracture membrane acts as a moisture barrier and should be installed to protect the tiles from moisture which helps maintain their integrity. Often, Ditra, a brand name, is used interchangeably with moisture barrier.

If you’re out of spacers for your tile installation, you can use pennies. Each time you place a tile, stick the pennies around the edges (on the sides and the corners). Like working with spacers, you’ll want the same amount of space around each tile before they set.

No, you don’t need to remove the old grout before installing new tile over existing tile. In fact, the old grout helps fill in gaps between tiles, creating a more even surface for the new layer. However, it's important to ensure that the grout is clean, solid, and free of cracks or crumbling areas. Damaged grout should be repaired or replaced before proceeding. Cleaning the surface thoroughly and filling any low spots will help the new adhesive bond properly and ensure a smooth, stable installation.

Uniform spacing between tiles is important for a professional and clean appearance. To achieve this spacing, tile spacers should be placed between the tiles and left in place until the mortar hardens and the tiles are secure. You can use X-shaped spacers vertically in between the tiles and laid flat at the corners.

The Merrill, MI homeowners’ guide to ceramic tile services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Paige Bennett
•
May 12, 2025May 12, 2025
How Much Does Tile Repair Cost? [2025 Data]
Damaged tiles should be fixed right away. In this guide, find out all of the different factors that affect your tile repair cost.
Paige Bennett
•
Jun 3, 2025Jun 3, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Install Travertine Tiles? [2025 Data]
The cost to install travertine tile depends on materials and the size of the project. This guide to travertine tile cost will help you budget accordingly.
Samantha Hawrylack
•
May 13, 2025May 13, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Seal Grout? [2025 Data]
Sealing your grout goes a long way toward extending its life span. This guide breaks down the cost factors for sealing grout, including size, materials, and labor.
Paige Bennett
•
Aug 14, 2024Aug 14, 2024
Can You Paint Shower Tile to Refresh the Look of Your Bathroom?
If you’re starting a bathroom refresh, you may wonder if you can paint shower tile. Find out everything you need to know about shower tile paint in this guide.
Paige Bennett
•
May 21, 2025May 21, 2025
Ceramic Tile Flooring Pros and Cons: Could This Be the Tile of Your Dreams?
Ceramic tile as a flooring option boasts a long list of advantages over other surfaces. However, there are also some key drawbacks worth considering. We’ve rounded up both the pros and the cons of ceramic tile into a helpful list.
Veronica Sparks
•
Aug 12, 2024Aug 12, 2024
Acrylic vs. Silicone Caulk: Which Is Best for Your Project?
Discover the key differences between acrylic versus silicone caulk to choose the right sealant for your next DIY project.