Hacking vs. Overlaid Tiles: Which is Best for Your Renovation Project?

To hack, or not to hack, is an often-asked question.

When it comes to renovating, the flooring is often the biggest job on the list. Two common methods for updating your tiles are hacking (removing & disposing of the existing tiles) and overlaying (layering new tiles over the old ones). Each approach has its advantages and considerations, and choosing the right method depends on various factors. In this blog, we'll delve into the differences between hacking and overlaying tiles to help you make an informed decision for your renovation project.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Hacking Off the Existing Tiles:

The first advantage is peace of mind. Hacking off the existing tile lets you inspect the substrate that was previously hidden underneath, which can reveal hidden issues such as groundwater intrusion, damaged waterproofing or even leaking pipes. Without hacking, these issues may remain undiscovered and come back to bite you later down the road.

Secondly, after hacking, you can apply fresh layers of waterproofing compound and screed, so you can control the quality of the foundation that your tiles lay on. This may help to extend the eventual life of your tiling job.

However, these benefits also have their costs. Firstly, hacking involves more labor and time, as the existing tiles need to be removed, and the hacked surface still needs to be prepared before new tiles can be installed. This can result in higher costs and longer project timelines. However, if you already have plans to do other dismantling or disposal tasks within your project such as cabinets, the additional cost of hacking and disposal can be mitigated by sharing of a single disposal container and hacking team between the different jobs.

Secondly, hacking is loud and dusty. If there is hacking work going on, you will

can be disruptive to your daily routine, as it generates dust, noise, and debris. You may need to temporarily relocate during the renovation, and you definitely don't want to be on site for an extended period during hacking without cause.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Overlaying the Existing Tiles:

Overlaying tiles is often a quicker and more cost-effective option. Since there is no hacking or disposal of the hacked off debris, the cost of hacking is saved. Similarly, since you bypass the job you also save on the time that the it would have taken. However, depending on the advice of your contractor, it may be prudent to apply an additional layer of waterproofing over the old tile, and the existing tile surface will need to be prepared for tiles to be laid, so the time saving might be limited. For smaller hacking and disposal jobs, the time savings might be a couple days or even less.

Overlaying also generates less dust and noise compared to hacking, making it a more convenient option for those who want to stay in during the work. Do note that tiling itself is not exactly silent - there will be sound generated by the mixing of cement, cutting of tiles, and laying of tiles. However it is nowhere near as bad as the sound of hacking.

Overlaying tiles can result in a slight increase in floor height, which may require adjustments to door clearances, transitions, and fixtures. The difference in height is hard to predict exactly without viewing the property in question, but generally it is less than 5 centimeters of change. This can also be used to your advantage - by cutting trenches into the floor before overlaying, you can more easily hide pipes or conduits under the fresh tile layer.

Overlaying also relies on the stability of the existing tiles. If the underlying tiles are damaged or not securely adhered, the new tiles may also be compromised over time, since the whole floor or wall is only as strong as the weakest element.

Overlaying doesn't always have to be done with tile over tile. You can easily overlay a tiled floor with vinyl planks as well, and it is a popular option in Singapore. Since the underlying tile is normally quite even, the vinyl floor will not have bumps or dips.

Which Approach is Right for You?

Ultimately, the decision between hacking and overlaying tiles depends on your goals, budget, timeline, and the condition of your existing tiles. If you're seeking a complete transformation, have the budget for additional labor and materials, and want to address potential substrate issues, hacking may be the best choice. On the other hand, if you're looking for a convenient and cost-effective update with minimal disruption, overlaying can provide a refreshed appearance without the need for extensive demolition.

Whether you choose to hack or overlay, your newly refreshed flooring will undoubtedly breathe new life into your space and create an inviting atmosphere for years to come.

Before making a decision, it's advisable to consult with a professional renovation contractor like Leecon Interiors. Book a FREE Site Visit with us, and we can help assess your specific situation, provide expert advice, and help you determine the most suitable approach for achieving your renovation goals.