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Grouting hearth tiles is one of the most important steps. It seals the tiles so heat doesn’t transfer under the tiles so easily, which can be dangerous. For this reason, heat-resistant grout is a must. Grout also prevents dust, dirt, and any other material from gathering between your tiles. If this happens and those buildups are flammable, a fire could start between the tiles. 

Yes, you can tile over existing tiles in a bathroom, but it is not always recommended. For this method to be successful, the original tile surface must be clean, flat, and free of damage such as cracks, unevenness, mold, or mildew. While tiling over existing tiles can save time and money, there are potential drawbacks. The new adhesive may not bond properly, and the process adds extra weight to the wall or floor. Additionally, the increased height of the surface could interfere with door clearances. For the best and most durable results, removing the old tiles before installing new ones is generally the better option.

If the hearth ends against a wall, you can use a tile cutter as you normally would. However, if the edge of your hearth ends with no surface pressing against it,you may want to look into rounded tiles. These give a smooth edge to your hearth and make sure cut edges aren’t visible. You can also see if the tile you have has pieces that have been glazed or rounded on one edge. You’d then cut the tile and place it normally, with the cut edge facing inward. 

Larger tiles can be difficult to install because they’re heavier and bulkier than their smaller counterparts, which makes them harder to haul around and put in place. Plus, if you don’t install the tiles correctly, they could crack or break. For these reasons, it’s best to hire a professional for large-format tile installation.