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>

Get matched with top ceramic tile pros in Bennet, NE

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

• <div><p>No, you don&rsquo;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>

Q: Does installing ceramic tile increase home value?

• <div><p>Installing new ceramic tile can certainly <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/which-bathroom-features-increase-resale-value.htm">boost your home&rsquo;s resale value</a>&mdash;especially if you&rsquo;re replacing old or dated flooring. In fact, adding a new bathroom floor delivers a 56.4% return on investment (ROI). In some cases, though, this project can offer as much as 100% ROI. Not only can fresh ceramic tile give your home a more modern look, but it&rsquo;s also water-resistant and easy to clean, which most homebuyers appreciate.</p></div>

Q: Can I install or repair tile myself?

• <div><p>DIY is possible for small projects. Professional services ensure precision and long-lasting results.</p></div>

Q: How long does it take to tile over tile?

• <div><p>The process takes two to four days, depending on the size of the area and your experience level. The first day involves assessing and prepping the existing tile, while the second day is for laying the new tile. This may take longer in complex areas. After letting the adhesive dry for 24 hours, grouting and sealing can be completed on day three. For larger projects or intricate tile patterns, expect the timeline to stretch a bit longer. Also, proper drying time between steps is essential for long-lasting results, which extends the project&rsquo;s time.</p></div>

Q: Are porcelain countertops less expensive than granite?

• <div><p>Porcelain and granite countertops can be similar in price, but it depends on the quality of the granite. Granite slab installation generally costs $50 to $200 per square foot, while the average porcelain countertops cost $50 to $70 per square foot. High-end granites, like Blue Louise and Costa Esmeralda, cost significantly more than porcelain&mdash;especially if you choose a high-end finish&mdash;but you can choose a lower-quality stone for a similar price. </p></div>

Enter your ZIP and get matched with up to 5 pros

Find Ceramic tile pros in Bennet

MCC Flooring, LLC

MCC Flooring, LLC

Customers say: Terrific value

Recommended by 90% of Angi customers

61 local quotes requested

Think about making some changes to your home? Here at MCC FLOORING we can make your vision a reality. Hardwood installation, Hardwood Refinish, Tile, Vinyl, and Carpet.

"very disappointing and frustrating tile job. we can honestly say there was nothing done correctly. We had no choice but to rip everything out (including heated floor) and had to start over. issues experienced were: 1/2 grout lines (not sure who still does anything larger than 1/8 inch anymore). several loose floor tiles. grout crumbled and flaked 2 days after installation. water in shower base pooled and some flowed the wrong way (into bathroom rather than into drain). we requested 1/3 offset pattern (staggered by 8 inches on a 24 inch tile) but instead got a varied staggered pattern from 4 inches to 12 inches. shortcuts on waterproofing (rubber membrane was cut down). we reached out immediately only to find Tornell had blocked my number. Called and left a message from my wife's phone but have not heard anything at this time."

Tom H on April 2022

Think about making some changes to your home? Here at MCC FLOORING we can make your vision a reality. Hardwood installation, Hardwood Refinish, Tile, Vinyl, and Carpet.

"very disappointing and frustrating tile job. we can honestly say there was nothing done correctly. We had no choice but to rip everything out (including heated floor) and had to start over. issues experienced were: 1/2 grout lines (not sure who still does anything larger than 1/8 inch anymore). several loose floor tiles. grout crumbled and flaked 2 days after installation. water in shower base pooled and some flowed the wrong way (into bathroom rather than into drain). we requested 1/3 offset pattern (staggered by 8 inches on a 24 inch tile) but instead got a varied staggered pattern from 4 inches to 12 inches. shortcuts on waterproofing (rubber membrane was cut down). we reached out immediately only to find Tornell had blocked my number. Called and left a message from my wife's phone but have not heard anything at this time."

Tom H on April 2022

Lifetime Stone Restoration, LLC

Lifetime Stone Restoration, LLC

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

17 years of experience

We are a professional stone, tile, and grout restoration company that specializes in performing routine maintenance to total restoration. Serving the Omaha, Lincoln, and Council Bluffs Metro areas, we are here to help your residence or commercial location have beautiful marble, travertine, terrazzo, and granite for years to come. Give us a call today!

"very eady to work with."

Karen R on December 2019

"very eady to work with."

Karen R on December 2019

InsideOut Renovations, Inc.

3109 S 6th St, Unit 119

4.65(

)

•Approved Pro

InsideOut Renovations, Inc.

3109 S 6th St, Unit 119

4.65(

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

26 local quotes requested

"Great group of guys to work with. Reasonably priced, done quickly."

Mary B on April 2018

"Great group of guys to work with. Reasonably priced, done quickly."

Mary B on April 2018

Carpentry both rough in and fine/finish work, also have plenty of experience with thinks such as tile, paint, lvp flooring, general handyman and maintenance work. Young man looking to make a better life for myself while helping people with whatever they may need

general construction concepts

106 E 4th St

No reviews yet

general construction concepts

106 E 4th St

No reviews yet

2 years of experience

we are construction company local to the Lincoln Nebraska area. We offer a wide variety of services. We pride ourselves on being honest and as upmost professional as possible. we are a smaller company with minimal overhead allowing us to give our customers the best pricing we can and leaving more money in the customers pocket. "Your dream, our mission. Let's build it together.

MackBuilt Remodeling

3007 PECOS RD

No reviews yet

MackBuilt Remodeling

3007 PECOS RD

No reviews yet

Free onsite estimate

Flooring and tile installation. Drywall, carpentry/trim, cabinet installation, handyman projects. MackBuilt Remodeling, founded and led by Zac. As the owner-contractor, Zac brings a rare blend of vision, hands-on experience, and commitment to excellence.

Heartland Renovations & Repair

6210 Glendale Rd

No reviews yet

Heartland Renovations & Repair

6210 Glendale Rd

No reviews yet

Offering affordable remodeling and handyman work in the Lincoln and surrounding areas.

Afloorable

1522 W 11th St

5.00(

)

Afloorable

1522 W 11th St

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

I specialize in vinyl and hardwood/ engineered flooring. I am very honest and fairly priced. I have been doing this on and off for about 8 years, with my older brother who has taught me everything. I have decided to branch out and do it on my own.

"it was really good, very good pricing, and gets quality material, highly recommend!"

Kloee M on February 2021

"it was really good, very good pricing, and gets quality material, highly recommend!"

Kloee M on February 2021

Fredrick Tile

4034 N 18th St

No reviews yet

Fredrick Tile

4034 N 18th St

No reviews yet

Free onsite estimate

We are a full service tile business. Offering all types of tile work. Kitchens, bathrooms etc. Call with any questions.

...

Showing 1-10 of 56

Ceramic Tile questions, answered by experts

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.

Installing new ceramic tile can certainly boost your home’s resale value—especially if you’re replacing old or dated flooring. In fact, adding a new bathroom floor delivers a 56.4% return on investment (ROI). In some cases, though, this project can offer as much as 100% ROI. Not only can fresh ceramic tile give your home a more modern look, but it’s also water-resistant and easy to clean, which most homebuyers appreciate.

DIY is possible for small projects. Professional services ensure precision and long-lasting results.

The process takes two to four days, depending on the size of the area and your experience level. The first day involves assessing and prepping the existing tile, while the second day is for laying the new tile. This may take longer in complex areas. After letting the adhesive dry for 24 hours, grouting and sealing can be completed on day three. For larger projects or intricate tile patterns, expect the timeline to stretch a bit longer. Also, proper drying time between steps is essential for long-lasting results, which extends the project’s time.

Porcelain and granite countertops can be similar in price, but it depends on the quality of the granite. Granite slab installation generally costs $50 to $200 per square foot, while the average porcelain countertops cost $50 to $70 per square foot. High-end granites, like Blue Louise and Costa Esmeralda, cost significantly more than porcelain—especially if you choose a high-end finish—but you can choose a lower-quality stone for a similar price.

The Bennet, NE 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

Taylor Freitas
•
May 14, 2025May 14, 2025
How Much Will It Cost to Retile a Bathroom? [2025 Data]
You're planning a bathroom remodel, but how much will it cost to retile your bathroom? Read this guide to find out.
Taylor Freitas
•
Oct 9, 2025Oct 9, 2025
How Much Does Ceramic Tile Installation Cost? [2025 Data]
Whether it’s on your floor, walls, or shower, ceramic tile can add style to your space. So, how much does ceramic tile installation cost? Let’s break it down.
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.
Rachel Presser
•
Aug 13, 2024Aug 13, 2024
How to Paint Tile
Want that kitchen or bathroom makeover without ripping your tiles out? We'll show you how to paint tile and level up your redecorating game.
Stephanie Mickelson
•
May 30, 2025May 30, 2025
How to Grout Peel-and-Stick Tile: A DIY Guide
Knowing how to grout peel-and-stick tiles can help you achieve a high-end look on a budget. This guide will show you how to do it.
Rachel Presser
•
May 2, 2025May 2, 2025
How to Fix Loose Floor Tiles in Your Home
A loose floor tile can be a nuisance or a hazard, but fixing floor tiles may not be as hard as you think. Our DIY guide will show you how to fix loose floor tiles.