We have a fireplace with some old tiles, which we'd like to replace. Question is, can we just install over the existing tiles, or must we remove the existing tiles?

To put new tiles over existing you would have to put up an underlayment of some sort like 1/8" plywood. Also it would be protruding out further.

Hope this helps,

Aaron

Hey Scorp...

If you have stone tiles and all is reasonably smooth then with the correct stone adhesive or epoxy you should be able to tile directly over the tiles.

If you do not have stone tile or the tiles have a glossy finish of any kind then plan on installing a 1/4" hardibacker cement board over the old tiles and then tiling new.

A picture would help here, too... ;)

Let me know if need more...

MARK

I feel it depends on the type of fireplace you have.
As it's gas or electric you may want to remove the tiles.
If you have to remove the fireplace for any repairs you will have to remove tiles.

I would remove all tiles first, then re-tile.

I agree with Handy. If those are ceramic tiles, you will have no fun attatching hardibacker to them and you really should have a good solid surface to tile to. I too would tear out and start anew. Hope you've been helped.

You can scuff up the old tile face with a belt sander and apply MAPE KERALASTIC
Latex additive then tile:)