Is it right for my home?
Can it go over existing tiles?
Often, yes, where the existing tiles are suitable. Here is how that is worked out, and what happens before any coat goes on.
4 min read
It is one of the most common questions we hear. The short answer is that microcement can go over existing tiles where they are suitable, after the surface has been tested and prepared. The longer answer is about how we decide.
Why people ask
Removing tiles is noisy, messy and can uncover surprises underneath. If a seamless finish can go over what is already there, it can simplify the project. But a finish is only as good as what it is applied to, so this is not a question to answer from a photo.
What decides whether it is suitable
Suitability is about the substrate, meaning the surface the finish will bond to. We look at the condition of the existing tiles and what sits beneath them.
- Are the tiles firmly bonded, or are some loose or drummy?
- Is the surface sound and stable?
- Is there damage or movement that needs to be addressed first?
- In a wet area, what is the waterproofing situation?
Where tiles are not suitable, they may need to be removed, or specific areas repaired, before we proceed. We would rather tell you that up front than discover it halfway through.
Testing and preparation
Every substrate is tested and prepared before a single coat goes on. This is true whether we are working over tiles, plaster or board. Preparation is where long-term results are decided, so it is never rushed or skipped.
Wet areas
In wet areas, the finish is not a waterproofing membrane. It goes over a compliant waterproofing membrane, which MicroLux can install and certify as part of one system. If the project involves a shower, the membrane question is part of the assessment.
Where it is confirmed
Whether going over your existing tiles is suitable is confirmed at the Site Assessment. This is about one hour on site, and you receive a written report. From there, we prepare a fixed-price proposal, presented on Zoom.
What to expect on the day
You do not need to do anything special. We look at the tiles, test the substrate and talk through the options with you. Bring any questions, and if you have photos of how the bathroom or floor was built, those can help.
The first step is a short Project Fit Call on Zoom. If it looks promising, we arrange the Site Assessment.
Keep reading
Want the whole picture?
The free Seamless Home guide walks through choosing a seamless surface from start to finish. Or, if you would rather talk it through, book a short call with our team.