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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.

For glass tile, you want to use unsanded grout. Sanded grout is a stronger and grittier cement grout that is great for installing tiles with wider gaps and into joints. However, it is susceptible to scratching glass tile and is more difficult to use in thinner gaps. Unsanded grout, while more expensive, is easier to fit between thin gaps and is less harsh on delicate materials, like glass tile.

Removing old tiles can be more complicated, but it can also be more manageable, depending on your circumstances. Typically, old tile is hard to remove because the adhesive had loads of time to bond with your wall, becoming a formidable foe between you and your new tile installation project. On the other hand, old tile in high-traffic areas can become loose, making it much easier to remove.

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.