can i tile on previous tile adhesive?

finest1 · Post by **finest1** » Sun Oct 03, 2021 7:31 pm

hi all, i hope you are well.

i am re-tiling the border of my shower tray. whilst removing the tiles a thin layer came off the backing of the tiles, most of it stayed on the walls. would i be able to stick the replacement tiles on the adhesive already there. the adhesive is not old its about 15 months. or would i have to remove all the old adhesive. my only concern is the tile adhesive is on thermalite block and i may end up taking some pieces of block with it

would like your thoughts

thanks

finest1

dewaltdisney · Post by **dewaltdisney** » Sun Oct 03, 2021 11:10 pm

If the old adhesive is on firmly then the issue is getting the tiles back on level. There must be room for a combed spread of adhesive buttered on to the tiles to allow proper seating.

DWD

wes56 · Post by **wes56** » Mon Oct 04, 2021 6:32 pm

Dont ever go back on over old adhesive & expect the old adhesive to work - the tile wont stick for the long run.
What next, would you re-use old grout? To re-use tile the tile back & edges must be scraped clean.
In the photo i would remove all that backing plaster back to the blockwork, then use a filler to bring the backing out, and then new adhesive.
Dont attempt to spread adhesive and fix tile to a fragmented, loose background. That bottom course is the most vulnerable to water damage of tile on the whole wall. Any loose tile will crack the grout and allow moisture in behind the tiles.

finest1 · Post by **finest1** » Tue Oct 05, 2021 9:26 am

@wes56

thanks

1) any tips on how best to remove the old adhesive. i was planning on a small chisel and hammer

2) while the tiles are off, any ideas on water sealing or proofing the edges?

i have brand new replacement tiles, so will not be using the old ones

thanks

wes56 · Post by **wes56** » Tue Oct 05, 2021 3:48 pm

What adhesive? Your photos only show gypsum plaster, take it off back to block, then build it out with say a sand and cement repair bag. Previous there was a length of polythene as a barrier. you will have to rely on a bead of silicone on the edge of the tray

finest1 · Post by **finest1** » Fri Oct 08, 2021 12:36 pm

once i remove the the plaster, i was thinking, can i use those water resistant tile backer boards rather than pack it out with standard cement mix? if so, how would i attach it to the wall?

thanks