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Transforming Your Tiles With Cemcrete

Coating over tiles presents a compelling option for those seeking a rejuvenated look for their tiled surfaces without the laborious task of tile removal. However, a cautious approach is necessary, considering the advantages and potential drawbacks of this method. 

​​When considering application over tiles, it's important to understand that the most popular tiles are made of either porcelain or ceramic. The dense glaze on these tiles can pose a challenge for our product to adhere effectively. The density and smoothness of the glaze create a surface that is too compact for the coating to bond properly.

​Hence, thorough surface preparation is essential. In this blog, we will explore the various benefits and challenges of coating over tiles and give a brief overview of the preparation steps to ensure a successful application.

​Pros of Coating Over Tiles with CreteCote Microcement / RenoCrete

• Cost-Effective Makeover: Coating tiles with a cement-based solution such as CreteCote or RenoCrete provides a more economical means to refresh the appearance of your tiles without the expense of tile removal and the disposal thereof.
• Time-Saving Solution: Opting to coat over tiles saves a significant amount of time compared to the labour-intensive process of removing old tiles and preparing the substrate for new installations.
• Customizable Finishes: CreteCote and RenoCrete offer a spectrum of colours and textures, allowing you to craft a unique look that perfectly aligns with your interior design preferences.
• Keeping Substrate Intact: Removing tiles poses a risk of potential substrate damage, necessitating careful consideration and potential remediation before proceeding.
• No Rubble Removal Necessary: Renovating a tiled floor can pose a challenge in apartment buildings that inhibit the disposal of building rubble. Opting to renovate over the existing tiles eliminates the need for rubble removal, providing a convenient way to achieve a fresh finish without the hassle of managing the debris from tile removal.

​Cons of Coating Over Tiles with CreteCote Microcement / RenoCrete
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• Substrate Condition Unidentified: Coating over tiles carries a risk; if the existing tiles are unstable and prone to lifting or cracking or not bonded to the surface anymore, it could compromise the applied coating, necessitating costly repairs or a complete reapplication. Any loose tiles would need to be removed and filled with an appropriate filler / self-levelling screed. It's crucial to emphasize that assessing the condition of the substrate beneath is inherently challenging without physically lifting the tiles. This means that issues such as insufficient waterproofing and a compromised screed, such as one with cracks, might go unnoticed. A lack of the necessary preparation may result in the overall application failing.
• Limited by Surface Preparation: The success of the overall application heavily relies on thorough surface preparation. When opting to grind the tiles, any remnants of glaze, dirt, or grime on the tiles may compromise adhesion, potentially leading to issues in the future, such as delamination.
• Incompatibility with Certain Tiles: Not all tiles are suitable for coating with Cemcrete products, especially natural stone tiles such as slate, sandstone, or clay, as these natural products tend to delaminate within themselves and are therefore not considered a stable or suitable substrate for cement-based coatings, or other coatings for that matter. In such cases, tile removal remains the only viable option.
• Grinning of Grout Lines: The absorption rates of grouts and tile materials vary; thus, they will dry at varying / inconsistent rates. If not appropriately addressed and the surface not suitably primed, this can lead to visible distinctions where the grout lines beneath are, displaying a contrasting colour.​

Various Approaches to Coating Over Tiles

Coating over floor tiles with a cement-based decorative finish offers several methods, each potentially varying from contractor to contractor - the main goal is to create a better mechanical key for the Cemcrete finish to be applied onto (tiles are very smooth and dense and won’t allow the cement finish to adhere to it if it’s applied directly without the necessary preparation).
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One method involves grinding off the glaze from the tiles using a grinder, followed by the application of two coats of PrimerCote. This technique has proven successful, providing a practical alternative to tile removal. Alternatively, meticulous tile cleaning and the application of an epoxy adhesive, followed by a broadcast of sand into the wet epoxy, can ensure complete coverage before applying either RenoCrete (suitable for both interior and exterior floors) or CreteCote (suitable for interior floors only).

Applying a cement-based decorative finish to wall tiles, though challenging, necessitates more thorough preparation due to the opposing force of gravity, presenting increased risks. It's crucial that the tiled surface provide a good mechanical key for the cement-based coating to adhere to – this can be done by grinding the tiles and then coating the entirety of the surface with the EIFS BaseCoat and Glass Fibre Mesh system; the Glass Fibre Mesh reinforces the substrate, and the EIFS BaseCoat creates the mechanical key. Opting for CreteCote, a lightweight option compared to the other alternative, is advisable for this type of application.

It's vital to acknowledge that there's no universal approach. The choice of method may depend on factors such as the tiles’ condition, type, as well as the contractor's expertise. Each method should be carefully evaluated based on your specific circumstances and requirements.

​Important Tips to Consider

• Verify Applicator's Experience: Ensure your chosen applicator has prior experience with applying cement-based decorative coatings over tiles. Request references of previous projects to evaluate their expertise and handiwork.
• Consider Drying Times: Take into account that sufficient drying time for both the preparation and finishing products used in the cement-based coating process is required. Rushing these steps may compromise the coating's integrity.​
• Effective Dust Management: If dust is a concern during the coating application, consider using vacuum cleaners attached to the grinder to maintain a cleaner work environment or consider the non-grinding preparation method.
• Check and Adjust Floor Levels: Calculate the floor levels post-preparation, considering the additional layers for coating. Anticipate potential rises in the floor level and how they align with the existing surface. Prepare for any necessary adjustments, such as trimming doors, to achieve a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result. Planning ahead is key to a successful application.​

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In conclusion, coating over tiles offers an attractive option for revamping the appearance of tiled surfaces while saving on costs and time. However, it's not without its challenges and is not universally suitable for all tile types. Proper preparation, as outlined in this blog, is crucial to maximize the likelihood of a successful application. Before deciding to coat over tiles, carefully weigh the pros and cons and consider seeking professional advice to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
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