Replacing Bathroom Tiles

All You Need to Know About Replacing Bathroom Tiles

Replacing bathroom tiles is a big home improvement project that can drastically change the aesthetic appeal and functionality of a space. For those who do not have experience, it can be a challenging task; however, with proper planning and execution, it is a project that can definitely be accomplished. 

Preparation and Planning 

  • After assessing damage: Check tiles and grout.
  • Tools: Grout remover, hammer, chisel, scraper, brush, tape, cutter, adhesive, grout, float, sponge, drop cloths.
  • Preparation of the workspace: fixtures are removed and the floor and walls covered

Removing existing tiles

  • Grout removal: Use grout remover tool
  • Tile removal: Use hammer and chisel to knock loose
  • Adhesive removal: Scrape off what’s left

Surface Preparation

  • Clean: Brush the surface of debris
  • Check for levelness: Inspect and apply levelling compound as needed

Laying New Tiles

  • Plan the layout: Measure and think in design
  • Apply adhesive: Using notched trowel.
  • Install the tiles: Place, press, and space properly.
  • Install the trims: Cut and install where necessary.

Grouting and Finishing

  • Apply grout: Using grout float.
  • Wipe excess out: Using a damp sponge.
  • Apply sealant to grout: This may be optional for protection of the grout.
  • Replace the fixtures: If removed

Bathroom-Tiles-Replacement

How to Change Bathroom Tiles without Removing Them

Removing the present tiles is usually much simpler, but there will be cases where it becomes practical to replace them without entirely taking them off. Of course, this is much more challenging to do, but that’s always possible for some situations.

  • Removing Grout: Scrape out the grout between the tiles using a grout removal tool.
  • Remove broken tiles: You will remove the broken tile by carefully prying them off the wall, avoiding the possibility of breaking other tiles or the wall.
  • Surface preparation: Clean and ready the surface to lay new tiles.
  • Lay new tiles: Lay new tiles inside the gaps that have been left by the removed tiles.
  • Grouting and finishing: Add grout to the joints between the new and old tiles, and finish work as usual.

This method is usually used for small-sized sites or when minimal tile replacements are required. You would need to determine the feasibility of this process based on the specific requirements of your project.

Replacing Bathroom Tiles Australia

If you are staying in Australia and are interested in getting some bathroom tile replacements done, you need to have a few things in your head.

  • Local Regulations: Ensure that you are following the regulations of the local building codes and rules of tile installation.
  • Climate Friendly for Australia: Choose tiles that are climate-friendly for Australia if you happen to live in a coastal or humid region.
  • Style and Design of Your Bathroom: Select tiles that complement the overall style and design of your bathroom.
  • Professional Installation: Ensure that there is professional installation in Australia. 

Replacing Bathroom Tiles Bunnings

Bunnings is a leading home improvement store in Australia selling bathroom tiles and available accessories. If you ever plan to replacing bathroom tiles bunnings, you can go to a Bunnings outlet to look at what they have and get advice on what would be appropriate from their salesperson.

Similarly, replacing bathroom floor tiles is somewhat similar to wall tiles but with added considerations such as waterproofing, slip resistance and traffic.

How to Apply Tile to Bathroom Wall

How to fit tile on a bathroom wall is such that it depends on the procedure on the previous sections:

  1. Clean the surface, remove the old tiles and adhesive
  2. Fix the tile adhesive on the wall
  3. Fix the tiles. Try as much to level them and also align them properly.
  4. Fill the gaps between the tiles by filling it up with grout
  5. Optional-apply grout sealer

How to Tile a Bathroom Wall with Large Tiles

Installing very large tiles in the bathroom creates a modern spaciousness in the room but requires proper planning and execution.

  • Preparation of surface: The wall surface should be smooth and even so that large tiles can be installed on that surface.
  • Tile Cutting: Large tiles are required to be cut by using a saw with water so that the tiles can stick well around corners, fixture, etc.
  • Adhesive Application: Adhesive should be applied generously to the wall so large tiles can bear their weight.
  • Installation: Large tiles should be placed and aligned with carefulness so that they are well-placed as well as properly attached to the wall.

How to Tile a Bathroom Wall for Beginners

If you’re a beginner, try working with small tiles and simple layouts. Here’s to remember:

  • Practice: Always cut the tiles and install on a scrap wall or tile sample before you start your real job.
  • Do not rush up with your work: Give proper attention to all matters, and take extra care in measuring and fitting things rightly.
  • Seek Advice: If you’re stuck about how to specifically go about the replacement of shower tiles and drywall, look up a professional or get help from online tutorials and resources.

Replacing Shower Tiles and Drywall

Shower tiles and drywall are affected, you should replace them. Replacing shower tiles and drywall involves a relatively difficult task and it consumes a longer process:

  1. Remove damaged tiles and grout.
  2. Check the state of drywall. Replace them if already damaged.
  3. Repair or replace drywall.
  4. Apply a waterproofing membrane to the shower walls.
  5. Install new tiles and grout.
  6. Replace shower fixtures.

Follow these steps, keeping in mind the specific needs of your bathroom, and you will replace your tiles successfully and create a beautiful, functional space.

FAQs: Bathroom Tile Replacement

Can I just replace tiles in the bathroom?” 

  • Of course, you can indeed replace some tiles from time to time; however, if the damage is wide-spread, or you are planning a renovation, it might be cheaper and look better if you replaced all the tiles in that area.

How much does bathroom tile replacement cost?” 

  • The answer depends on a number of factors such as the size of the area, the kind of tile to be used, labour costs, and the extra expenses which may include removal of fixtures and surface preparation.

What are the ways of renovating old bathroom tiles?

  • Renovation might include regrouting, repainting, adding decorative touches, or even replacing fixtures.

How to refresh bathroom tile without replacing it?

  • Clean and grout, paint, add accents or update fixtures. For a bolder statement, even install a glass backsplash.
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A Quick Guide for Small Bathroom Renovation

Even before the popularity of small homes, the bathroom was typically just a small space at home. Given this, many will think that it will be difficult to remodel it. However, there are bathroom design tricks and ideas that will surely give any small bathroom space a total makeover.

Small Bathroom Renovation Tips

1. Choose light, monochromatic colour scheme 

Dark colour tends to give a cave-like atmosphere. By using monochromatic and light colours from the paint to the furnishings, the small bathroom will feel like a huge space. Similar floor and wall tile colour will also contribute a light feel.

2. Use colourful small items

If you go for light colours in the bathroom when you renovate it, pick out small colourful items. They can be a cute little red rug or blue soap dish. A bit of colours from these bathroom articles will inject a livelier feel for a wonderful bath time.

3. Create reflective surfaces

To add a wider space feel, reflective surfaces will hugely help. Try to add a mirror the size of an entire main wall. Not only mirrors can create reflections. Even glossy fixtures can contribute to the vibe. Therefore, go for tubs, sinks, countertops, or anything that will create a shiny, reflective appearance.

4. Opt for pocket doors

Pocket doors can save up space for any small or big bathrooms. It may consume just a tiny part of the entry wall. However, if done appropriately, this type of door will let you maximize the entire bathroom space.

5. Smart storage matters

Tucked everything neatly into a customized or multi-purpose countertop. When we say customized or multi-purpose, it means it will allow you to have some space to place your coffee or hair dryer on. Just put what is essential for use in the bathroom like towels or hygiene supplies. Don’t make it an extension of your closet.

What You Need to Consider

small bathroom renovation

Functionality for the primary persons who will use the bathroom. If there are children or elderly who will use it, think carefully if your idea of renovation will be appropriate for them.

Renovation timeline. Apparently, it will cost you more if you want the project to be done the soonest time possible. Otherwise, be willing to wait a little more if urgency is not a thing to be concerned of.

DIY or contractor. It’s you who can perfectly assess if the project is fully manageable by you or you will need the expertise of a contractor. If you are confident enough that you have the skills, time, and money to carry out everything needed for the renovation, go for DIY. Otherwise, seek the expertise of a trusted bathroom renovation contractor like iTileNT.

Our team at iTileNT has more than 20 years of experience doing a full range of demolition, waterproofing, plumbing, and tiling services in Darwin, Palmerston, and Humpty Doo. Get in touch with us today and let us know how we can help you.

Sources:

https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/8-tips-for-remodeling-a-tiny-bathroom-52243

https://www.thespruce.com/remodel-small-bathrooms-efficiently-1821379