Tiling over tile is a tricky job, and without the right product it is a fool’s errand. Although tiling over tile is not a highly recommended thing, sometimes it’s done in unavoidable circumstances. Tiling experts advise people to get rid of their existing tiles completely before laying new tiles, but sometimes, that job turns out too challenging. For instance, tiles that are still in excellent condition are not easy to remove with a little pry and a pound. When that happens, little option remains than to go forward with the installation without removing the older layer. However, if you are planning to tile over tiles, make sure that you are following the right steps and using the right set of products for the job.
Below are some suggestions for the types of thinset you want to use for this specific job.
Laticrete 254 Platinum Thinset
If you have thin porcelain tiles in mind, then there isn’t a thinset mortar that can beat the performance of the Laticrete 254 Platinum. Especially ideal for porcelain tiles that are thin and light, this thinset spreads easily and evenly creating a strong and lasting bond between the new and old tiles. Providing the ultimate adhesive for porcelain tiles as well as glass ones, this mortar is formulated with anti-microbial technology that offers protection against any microbial build-up on the tiles.
Now the Laticrete 254 PLATINUM Multipurpose Thinset Mortar is what you want to especially consider if this is an exterior area or a place that remains submerged. With excellent shear bond strength, the thinset makes sure that the tiles sit snugly in their grooves impervious of the moisture in the environment. A number of color options makes this grout an easy choice for unique colored tiles.
Laticrete 253 Gold Multipurpose Thinset
The next choice in line is the Laticrete 253 Gold Multipurpose thinset. A superior powder polymer, this is another great product that is easy to work with. Just mix it with water and its ready to apply. A thinset mortar formulated for ceramic and stone tiles, the 253 Gold is a highly recommended product for tiling over tile projects. What makes this product especially sutable for the job in question? It’s bonding strength. 253 Gold thinset is among the few thinset mortars in the market that bonds with any surface. The 253 indeed has the reputation to bond with most kinds of substrates involved in tiling.
Speaking of suitability of application, this product can be used for both indoor and outdoor installations. So, you can use it confidently for both kinds of application. The 253 Gold meets and exceeds the bond requirements of ANSI A118.4 which if you know anything about bonding strength is excellent. Mixed with water, it assumes a smooth and creamy consistency that is easy to spread on any surface. The special antimicrobial formula protects the surfaces from mold and mildew.
4237 Thinset Mortar Additive
A mortar additive you absolutely want to check out when shopping for additives for tiling over tile, the 4237 thinset has a great reputation for its exceptional bond strength. The product has 250% greater bond strength compared to the ANSI A118.4 standard. It is flexible, not to mention shock resistant, which makes it the most ideal additive to use in high-traffic areas. The product is resistant to frost and other weather elements, which is good news for those looking for a product for exterior application. With its proven performance, the 4237 is the most recommended latex additive for thinset for the concerned kind of installations.
Read More: HOW TO USE LATEX ADDITIVE FOR MORTAR
