Omar Khalid
Covering old plastic wall tiles can be a tedious and expensive process, especially if the tiles are damaged or outdated. While removing and replacing them is an option, it may be more cost-effective to consider covering them up. There are several ways to do this, including using vinyl peel-and-stick tile decals, tile varnish, resin, or microcement. For a seamless finish, microtopping, a decorative concrete covering, can be applied to create a uniform and modern look. Alternatively, you can paint the tiles or use tile stickers for a quick and easy update. Covering old plastic wall tiles can give your space a fresh and modern look without the hassle and expense of a complete renovation.
Characteristics and Values Table for Covering Old Plastic Wall Tiles
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Tile Varnish | Can be applied with a brush or roller, dries quickly, and is waterproof |
| Resin | Creates a uniform surface by covering joints; needs to be applied by a professional and may turn yellow over time |
| Microcement | A seamless, decorative coating that gives a uniform, tactile, and natural effect; less likely to turn yellow than resin |
| Concrete | Ductile and versatile material that can coat almost any surface, creating modern and visually larger spaces |
| Microtopping | A 3 mm thick decorative concrete covering that creates seamless surfaces; allows for customization with colours, decorative inserts, and effects for an original look |
| Vinyl Peel & Stick Tile Decals | Durable, resistant to heat, water, and UV rays; available in various colours, patterns, and styles; easy to install by cleaning the surface, removing the backing, and pressing into place |
| Paint | Inexpensive way to update old tiles by providing a new colour |
| Wallpaper | Can be applied directly over plastic tiles, but may require softening the adhesive with a heat gun or hair dryer first; can grout the joints where tiles meet to prevent them from showing through |
| Removal | Soak tiles in vinegar to loosen old mastic, use a knife to remove it, and apply new mastic to the wall and tiles; pull tiles off and put up a new backing board before rehanging |
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What You'll Learn
Use vinyl peel-and-stick tile decals
If you're looking to cover old plastic wall tiles, vinyl peel-and-stick tile decals are an excellent option. They are a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution, as you won't need to tear out and replace your old tiles.
These decals come in a variety of colours, patterns, and styles, allowing you to add a modern and designer-savvy touch to your space. They are manufactured from durable vinyl, which is resistant to heat, water, and ultraviolet rays. This ensures that your decals will be long-lasting.
To install vinyl peel-and-stick tile decals, start by cleaning your old tiles with an all-purpose cleaner. Allow the tiles to dry completely before proceeding to the next step. Then, simply remove the paper backing from the self-stick tile and press it firmly into place over the old tile. You can cut the decals with scissors to fit around wall switches or electrical outlets.
Peel-and-stick tile decals are easy to apply and remove, making them ideal for renters or anyone who wants to frequently change up their home decor. They are lightweight and can be cut with scissors or a utility knife to fit any space. You can also use contact glue on the underlayer for added adhesion if needed. With these decals, you can easily conceal outdated or damaged tiles and give your space a fresh new look.
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Apply tile varnish
If you are looking for a way to cover old plastic wall tiles, one option is to apply tile varnish. This can be an easy and inexpensive way to give your tiles a makeover without having to replace them. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply tile varnish:
Prepare the Tiles:
Before you start, ensure your tiles are clean and dry. If your tiles are only slightly damaged, with small cracks or holes, you can repair these areas before painting. However, if the tiles are badly damaged, they should be replaced.
Choose the Right Varnish:
Select a resilient tile varnish that is suitable for your surface. A 2-component varnish is generally more durable and recommended for floors, while a 1-component varnish can be used for walls. You can choose from a variety of colours or mix your own to achieve the desired tone.
Mix the Varnish:
If you are using a 2-component varnish, mix the resin and hardener together before adding your chosen pigment paste. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the correct mixing ratio and ensure the components are thoroughly combined.
Apply the Varnish:
Follow the instructions on your chosen product for specific application guidance. Generally, you will use a brush or roller to apply the varnish, ensuring a thin, even coat. Allow the first coat to dry before deciding if you need to apply a second coat for full coverage.
Maintain Your Varnished Tiles:
To ensure the longevity of your varnished tiles, follow the manufacturer's care instructions. Regular cleaning and maintenance will help keep your tiles looking their best. Keep in mind that floors may require more frequent maintenance due to wear and tear.
By following these steps, you can easily apply tile varnish to your old plastic wall tiles, giving them a fresh and modern appearance. This cost-effective solution allows you to transform the look of your space without the need for costly and time-consuming tile replacement.
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Cover with concrete or microcement
Covering old plastic wall tiles with concrete or microcement is an excellent way to renovate your space without the hassle and cost of removing the old tiles. Microcement, also called microconcrete, is a polymer-modified cement-based coating that can be applied to almost any surface, both indoors and outdoors. It can be used to cover walls, floors, countertops, sinks, tubs, and shower stalls, creating modern and evocative spaces.
Before applying microcement, it is important to assess the condition of your existing tiles. Ensure they are firmly adhered to the surface without any loose or missing sections. Repair any imperfections and create a smooth surface by filling the grout lines. This step is crucial for achieving a flawless finish. After repairing and cleaning the tiles, you can apply a primer or anti-humidity epoxy product to block moisture and act as a vapor barrier.
The next step is to apply the base layer of microcement. This layer will need to be pigmented with the colour of your choice. After the base layer, apply two layers of microcement specifically formulated for walls, such as Microfino or Microdeck. Sand the surface after each layer. Finally, protect the microcement coating with varnishes or sealers. You can use a product like Presealer and Topsealer WT One Coat to ensure a durable finish.
When working with concrete or microcement, it is important to cover any surfaces or items that you do not want to get ruined, as dried concrete is challenging to remove. Additionally, try to remove any large drips or globs before the cement cures, as it will be more difficult to sand or chisel once it dries.
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Use Microtopping
Microtopping is a decorative concrete covering composed of a liquid polymer and a specific cement mix. It allows for the creation of fine, seamless surfaces and can be applied to any material, including plastic wall tiles, with a thickness of only 3 mm. This makes it a perfect solution to quickly change the look of a space without demolishing old surfaces.
To use microtopping to cover old plastic wall tiles, follow these steps:
- Prepare the surface: Ensure that the plastic wall tiles are clean and free of any dirt, grease, or debris. It is important to note that the adhesive used for installing plastic wall tiles in the 1950s can be challenging to remove. A heat gun can be used to soften the adhesive, but it may also damage the underlying wall, as some plaster walls may crumble when exposed to high temperatures. Instead, consider using hot, soapy water to soak the glue, which will soften it and make it easier to scrape off.
- Repair any damage: If there are any holes, cracks, or imperfections in the plastic wall tiles or the underlying wall, repair them before applying the microtopping. This will ensure a smooth and even finish.
- Prime the surface: Apply a quality primer to the plastic wall tiles to create a suitable base for the microtopping to adhere to. The key is to use a primer that will effectively bond with the plastic surface.
- Mix and apply the microtopping: Follow the manufacturer's instructions to properly mix the liquid polymer and cement components of the microtopping. Using the appropriate tools, apply the microtopping to the primed plastic wall tiles, ensuring a consistent thickness of 3 mm.
- Create a seamless finish: Microtopping can be applied to create a seamless and uniform surface. Carefully fill in any gaps or seams between the plastic wall tiles to achieve a smooth and continuous finish.
- Customise the appearance: Microtopping offers a range of customisation options. You can choose from various colours, decorative inserts, and effects, such as shiny, cloud, or acid-stained finishes, to create a unique and original look for your space.
By following these steps and using microtopping, you can successfully cover old plastic wall tiles, transforming the look of your space without the need for demolition or tile replacement.
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Wallpaper over the tiles
If you're looking for a quick, cost-effective, and less messy way to update the look of a room with old plastic wall tiles, wallpapering over them can be a good option. However, there are a few factors and considerations to keep in mind to ensure successful wallpaper application and maximize the lifespan and appearance of your new wall covering.
First, it's crucial to inspect the tiles for any loose, cracked, chipped, or broken tiles. Tap lightly on each tile, as a hollow sound can indicate a loose tile. If you find any issues, carefully remove the affected tile with a putty knife, clean the back of the tile and the wall space, and then apply tile adhesive to reattach it. Allow ample time for the adhesive to cure, usually around 24 hours.
Next, prepare the tile surface by filling in any grout lines or gaps with a matching tile adhesive to create a smooth and uniform surface. This step is essential, especially if you want to avoid the tile pattern transferring to your wallpaper. Once the adhesive is cured, apply a primer specifically formulated for use with wall coverings. Primers block stains, seal porous materials, and improve adhesion between the wall and the wallpaper.
When choosing wallpaper, consider the type of tile you're covering. Non-porous tiles like ceramic or glass provide a smooth surface ideal for wallpaper application. However, porous tiles may not be suitable due to their absorbent nature, as moisture from the adhesive could seep into the material and cause damage. For non-porous tiles, you can choose from various wallpaper types, each with its advantages:
- Non-woven wallpaper: Easy to install and remove, tear-resistant, and can be applied using the paste-the-wall technique.
- Peel-and-stick wallpaper: The easiest to install, with self-adhesive backing, but not ideal for high-moisture areas.
- Fabric-backed wallpaper: Requires a strong adhesive due to its weight.
Before applying the wallpaper, measure the height and width of the wall to determine the required amount of material, and don't forget to factor in extra for pattern repeats and potential mistakes. Allow the wallpaper to acclimate to room temperature for approximately 48 hours to minimize curling or warping. Then, unfold and smooth out each roll, laying them out chronologically.
Finally, initiate the application by positioning the first strip along a corner or seam of the wall, slowly peeling back the backing paper, and maintaining contact between the adhesive and the primed tile surface. Once affixed, use a plastic smoother or squeegee to eliminate trapped air pockets and secure a strong bond.
With these steps, you can successfully wallpaper over old plastic wall tiles, giving your space a fresh new look while avoiding the hassle and cost of tile removal or replacement.
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Frequently asked questions
Covering old plastic wall tiles without removing them can be done using Ideal Work's surface coatings, such as Microtopping®, a decorative concrete covering composed of a liquid polymer and a specific cement mix. Alternatively, you can use vinyl peel-and-stick tile decals, which are durable and resistant to heat, water, and ultraviolet rays. These options are less costly and environmentally friendly compared to tearing out and replacing old tiles.
Removing old plastic wall tiles can be challenging, and the tiles may be installed with an asbestos mastic adhesive, which can be hazardous. Before removal, soak the tiles in white vinegar to loosen the old mastic. Use a knife to cut close to the remaining tile and a putty knife to scrape away the old mastic. After removing the tiles, apply new wall mastic and reapply tiles if desired.
Alternative coverings for old plastic wall tiles include tile varnish, which can be applied with a brush or roller and is waterproof. Resin is another option for creating a uniform surface, but it must be applied by a professional and may turn yellow over time. Microcement is a similar seamless solution that is less likely to discolour and gives a natural, tactile effect.
