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Installing brick slips over existing tiles can be a great way to transform the look of a room without having to remove the existing tiles. Brick slips are thin slices of real or imitation brick that can be installed directly onto walls, floors, or other surfaces. The process of installing brick slips over tiles requires some careful preparation and attention to detail, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be a satisfying DIY project.
Preparing the Surface
Before you start installing brick slips over tiles, you need to ensure that the surface is clean, dry, and free from any loose material. Use a wire brush or scraper to remove any dirt, grime, or old adhesive. If there are any loose tiles, edges, or grout, you may need to remove or repair them before proceeding.
Next, assess the condition of your tiles. If they are smooth, glazed, or have a glossy finish, they may not provide a good adhesive surface for the brick slips. In this case, you may need to use a special primer or adhesive which can be found in our accessories to create a rougher surface for better adhesion. Consult with the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations for the specific product you’re using.
Measuring and Cutting the Brick Slips
Once you have prepared the surface, you need to measure the area to be covered with brick slips. Use a tape measure to determine the length and width of the area and calculate how many brick slips you’ll need. It’s a good idea to order extra brick slips to account for breakage, cutting, and mistakes.
Before you start cutting the brick slips, it’s essential to take the necessary safety measures. Always wear protective gear like gloves, safety glasses, a dust mask and earplugs.
The most common method for cutting brick slips is using an angle grinder equipped with a diamond cutting blade. Mark the brick slips where you want to cut them, and use the angle grinder to score the brick slip along the line. You should then place the scored brick slip on a flat surface and apply pressure to snap the brick slip in two.
Adhering the Brick Slips to the Tiles
Before you start installing the brick slips, it’s essential to determine the best layout for your bricks. Some installation options include staggering the brick slips or installing them in a straight pattern. If you’re going for a staggered layout, you should start with a full width brick slip at the bottom and work your way up, cutting the final row to size if needed.
To adhere the brick slips to the tiles use a quick-setting adhesive, such as rapid set cementitious adhesive that is formulated for use with brick slips. Spread the adhesive with a notched trowel over an area that covers only a few brick slips at a time to prevent the adhesive from setting before you get the chance to apply the brick slips over it.
Apply the brick slips using a slight twisting motion to ensure they are embedded in the adhesive layer. Use tile spacers between the brick slips to ensure uniform spacing and level the bricks using a spirit level.
Finishing Touches
Once the brick slips are in place, you’ll need to leave them to dry overnight (or for the recommended amount of time according to the adhesive manufacturer’s instructions). You may need to use pointing mortar to fill the gaps between bricks and create a smooth surface. It’s essential to use a mortar that closely matches the color and texture of the brick slips.
In conclusion, Installing brick slips over tiles can add a rustic touch and improve the aesthetics of your room significantly. The process of is not as complex as it may seem and can be done with the right approach and tools. By following the steps mentioned above, you can achieve great results with installing brick slips over tiles.
