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How to Cover Wall Tiles Without Removing Them

Written By

Carmen

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Are you tired of looking at outdated wall tiles that seem impossible to replace? We know! Trying to remove old tile can be a challenge, especially when it’s firmly affixed to the wall. Lucky for you, we have some good news: removing them may not even be necessary! 

How to Cover Wall Tiles Without Removing Them

That’s right — in this post, we will provide detailed steps on how to cover wall tiles without removing them. There are various creative ways that people have used tile covers to transform their walls. Keep reading if you’re ready for an energizing way of updating your home in no time.

Tools You Will Need

  • Wallpaper adhesive
  • Paint roller
  • Primer
  • Liquid sandpaper
  • Tiling & Grouting tape (if needed)
  • Wallpaper of choice or contact paper
  • Painter’s tape (optional)

7 Easy Steps Guide on How to Cover Wall Tiles Without Removing Them

1. Clean the Tiles

Keeping tiles clean is an important part of maintaining your home. Without regular cleaning, grime and dirt can accumulate on their surface, leaving them looking dull and unappealing. To give them a thorough clean, use a damp cloth to remove dust, dirt, and build-up. 

Keeping Tiles Clean is an Important Part

Wet the cloth with warm water mixed with a mildly abrasive cleanser if necessary. Rub gently in circular motions until all build-up has gone, then rinse off and allow the tiles to air dry − never leave them to dry with a cloth or towel as this can cause streaks. Doing this regularly will ensure that your tiles remain spotless for longer.

2. Apply a Thin Layer of Primer

Applying a thin layer of primer and liquid sandpaper before beginning a tiling project is essential for achieving great results. Be sure to spread an even layer over the entire surface, as well as any grout/joint lines in between tiles. 

This process will ensure that the new tiles properly adhere to the substrate while providing a smooth finish in the end. Taking your time to apply this primer will help ensure that you don’t miss vital squares or small cuts—leaving no room for error on your tiling project!

3. Apply Wallpaper Adhesive

Applying wallpaper adhesive with a paint roller is an easy way to get great results. Start by preparing the wall you want to adhere the wallpaper to and get ready with your tools. Once everything is ready, start by pouring a small amount of adhesive into the paint tray then dip the roller in it. 

Applying Wallpaper Adhesive With a Paint Roller

Work in small sections at a time, rolling repetitively so that you are sure that all spots are evenly covered. After you finish one section with the adhesive, let it sit for several minutes – this will help it bond tightly and not later peel off from the wall. Utilizing these steps, your walls will be looking extra fresh with minimal time and effort spent!

4. Affix the Wallpaper 

You can use painter’s tape to help hold it in place if needed. Wallpapering is a great way to add personality and style to any room. Using painter’s tape is an easy way to ensure you get the results you want without making it a challenge. Start by affixing the wallpaper at one corner of the wall. 

It gradually presses your way outwards with a soft cloth while smoothing it onto the wall as you go. This will make your walls look professionally done, and can help minimize bubbling or wrinkles that could detract from the overall look. With proper preparation and patience, anyone can enjoy beautiful wallpaper in their home!

5. Avoid Any Air Bubbles From Forming

Making sure there are no air bubbles hidden between your tiles is key to a successful installation. To accomplish this final step, press all tiles down with a clean cloth or, if available, a roller. Covering each tile firmly and evenly will minimize the chances of any suction holes disrupting their uniformity. 

Your Tiles is Key to a Successful Installation

This technique might require additional patience if larger tiles have been used, as they typically require extra time to ensure they are properly integrated into the floor and wall. Taking care of the details now will result in an even more seamless finish later on so make sure that all tiles were covered -–and pressed down before you move on to the next step!

6. Keep the Wallpaper in Place

Adding tiling and grouting tape to the edges of wallpaper is an essential part of the installation process to ensure that it stays in place over time. Tying and grouting tape creates a solid border along each edge that prevents water or air from accumulating behind the paper, which can cause the wallpaper to loosen or peel away. 

In addition to taping off the edges, using a sealant before applying wallpaper helps keep it protected from moisture and makes it much easier to clean. Taking these extra steps ensures that your wallpaper installation project will last for years to come!

7. Dry Completely

If you’ve just completed a craft project with an adhesive, you should make sure to give the glue time to dry and set before using or displaying your new creation. Allowing the adhesive to dry completely is important for not only protecting your work from damage but also keeping it looking its best for longer. 

Leaving the adhesive to completely set can also ensure any applied decorations remain securely affixed for years of enjoyment. So take a few extra minutes and let that glue do its job before showing off your handy work!

Keeping It Looking Its Best for Longer

With some planning and effort, you can easily give your home a fresh, modern look without the hassle of removing your existing tiles. This method is also a great option if you’re looking to add texture and color to an otherwise dull room. All that’s left now is for you to find the perfect wallpaper, so get creative and enjoy!

We hope this post helped teach you how to cover wall tiles without removing them. If you have any questions or need some tips, feel free to contact us and we’ll be more than happy to help!

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How to Avoid Air Bubbles When Installing Wall Tiles?

Installing wall tiles can be a tricky endeavor, and one of the most annoying blunders is when air bubbles end up trapped under the surface. To prevent this from happening, it’s essential to utilize a flat and even surface for the tiles. It’s also important to pick floors with no curvature or angles that could cause problems down the line. Before pressing tiles into place, it’s essential to make sure they fit perfectly together by applying grout first. 

Additionally, use an adhesive trowel with deep notches for greater coverage and a better grip on the tile. Press each tile firmly in place and allow the adhesive time to properly dry to ensure a good seal so any air bubbles have nowhere to hide. 

Finally, avoid using excessive amounts of adhesive as well as cheap materials as they may contain too much moisture which can cause bubblings in tiles over time. With these steps followed carefully, you’ll be able to avoid any unsightly air bubbles marring your beautiful new walls!

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Frequently Asked Questions

How to Seal Wallpaper for Extra Protection?

Sealing wallpaper with a varnish or other protective coating over the top of it is the perfect way to ensure that your walls remain to look good for years. Sealing wallpaper helps by protecting the material from dirt and moisture, preventing discoloration and peeling. 

To start the job, clean the area with warm soapy water and allow it to dry thoroughly. Once dried, apply at least two coats of sealant using a brush or roller for even coverage, allowing time for each coat to dry before applying the next. 

For extra protection, consider applying a top coat of wax, which will add a glossy sheen to your wallpaper as well as further protection from dirt and dust. With just these few steps you can keep your wallpaper looking its best!

How to Apply Grouting and Tiling Tape Correctly?

Applying grouting and tiling tape correctly is an essential step in any tile installation. The good news is that the process is not complicated, and once you understand the basics of applying the tape it should be a breeze! First, you’ll need to decide which regions require taping—this typically involves any spaces between tiles or where two tiles will meet up with other vertical surfaces. 

Once you’ve identified these areas, clean them thoroughly and allow them to dry before laying down the tape. To stick the tape properly, press it firmly onto the surface, and after confirming that it has adhered completely, apply a thin layer of adhesive over the top. 

Make sure to check for any air bubbles at this stage as they can cause issues later if left unchecked. Finally, let your tape-covered area dry for at least 24 hours before moving on to grouting or other application projects. With this simple set of steps, you should have no trouble effectively applying grouting and tiling tape!

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Conclusion

Although it may seem like a daunting task, covering wall tiles without removing them can be surprisingly easy. You should carefully determine how to cover wall tiles without removing them. 

By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can give your space a whole new look without having to go through the time and expense of tearing out old tiles. Give it a try and see for yourself how easy it is to achieve the results you want.

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