Ripping Up Bathroom Floor vs. Tiling Over Old Floor

A Firm Foundation

• Before you start, the best way to determine whether you can lay tile over the old surface or not is to check the condition of the sub-flooring. Over time, moisture and water seeping through seams causes the underlayment and sub-flooring to decay. If the toilet is leaning or moving around, or you notice a dip in the floor in front of the tub or shower, this may be the cause. If there is water damage, the only way to properly repair it is to completely remove the old flooring and replace the underlayment and sub-flooring before you install new tile. If you do not replace the damaged foundation, eventually the rotted portions of the flooring will break through, leaving you with a much bigger and more expensive mess.

Flooring That Must Be Removed

• Even if no water damage exists, there are certain types of flooring that must be removed before the installation of new tile. If sheet vinyl has become loose over the majority of the floor, due to excessive moisture or temperature fluctuations that cause it to separate from the adhesive, it needs to be removed. Any foam-backed sheet vinyl also needs to come out, according to The Family Handyman, as it is too flexible to support the incoming tile. Glazed ceramic tile also needs to be torn out, according to FloorsTransformed.com. The website also recommends removing any tongue-and-groove planks and hardwood flooring prior to installation of the new tile.

What You Can Tile Over

• If the foundation is free of damage, there are several instances when you do not have to disrupt the existing flooring. Sheet vinyl or vinyl tile that are firmly adhered to the underlayment can be left in place and covered with backer board to support the new tile. When working with old, unglazed ceramic tile, the only portions that need to be removed are those that are loose or cracked. These spots can be filled in with a leveling agent.

Other Considerations

• While installing tile yourself can save you the cost of professional labor, some aspects of the job may fall outside the scope of what you know. If the sub-flooring must be replaced or the old flooring contains asbestos, hire a professional to avoid making mistakes that will cost you time and a considerable amount of money to fix. Furthermore, if you purchase tile that comes with any type of warranty, it may be voided if you do not use a professional installation service.