Are you tired of the outdated tile in your bathroom or kitchen? Want to give it a fresh new look without the hassle of removing the tile?
Installing wainscoting over tile is a great solution! Not only does it add a stylish touch to your space, but it also covers up any unsightly tile. However, the process can seem daunting at first.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you install wainscoting over tile with ease. From preparing the area to attaching the beadboard, we’ve got you covered.
So, let’s get started!
How To Install Wainscoting Over Tile
Step 1: Prepare the Area
The first step in installing wainscoting over tile is to prepare the area. This involves disconnecting the water supply to the sink and carefully removing the sink. You should also remove any towel bars or other accessories from the area that will be covered by wainscoting.
Step 2: Cut and Apply Plywood Strips
Next, cut the 1/2-inch plywood into 2-inch strips and apply them over the tile. Drill through the grout lines and attach the strips to the studs in the wall using screws. These strips will be used to attach the beadboard.
Step 3: Attach Beadboard Pieces
Once the plywood strips are in place, it’s time to attach the beadboard pieces using a nail gun. Cut them to fit using a miter saw. Make sure to use wood glue to bond the notches of the pieces together.
Step 4: Install Baseboard and Top Molding
After attaching the beadboard, install the baseboard and top molding using a nail gun. This will give your wainscoting a finished look.
Step 5: Caulk Seams and Touch Up Paint
Caulk all the seams between the beadboard and baseboard/top molding. Then, touch up any paint that may have been damaged during installation.
Step 6: Paint Room
With your new wainscoting installed, you can now paint the room. Tip: You might prefer to paint the bathroom walls, above the beadboard, before you start the installation in order to save having to trim paint the new wainscoting.
Step 7: Reinstall Sink
Finally, reinstall the sink and any other accessories you removed in step one.
Preparing The Tile Surface
Before installing wainscoting over tile, it’s important to properly prepare the tile surface to ensure a successful outcome. Here are some steps to follow:
1. Clean the Surface: The first step is to thoroughly clean the existing tile surface using a degreaser and scrub brush. Remove any dirt, grime, or adhesive residue. Once the surface is clean, rinse it thoroughly with water and allow it to dry completely.
2. Inspect the Surface: Check for any signs of damage, such as cracks or chips. If there are any damaged or loose tiles, replace them before installing wainscoting. Also, check the levelness of the surface. If it’s uneven, you may need to use a self-leveling compound to create a smooth and even surface.
3. Sand the Surface: Sanding the surface can help create a rough surface for the new adhesive to bond to. Use a medium-grit sandpaper and sand the surface in a circular motion. Be sure to wear a mask and eye protection when sanding to avoid inhaling dust.
4. Use a Primer: Applying a bonding primer can help create a stronger bond between the old and new adhesive. Use a high-quality primer and apply it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Choose the Right Adhesive: Look for an adhesive that’s specifically designed for tiling over tile, like thin-set mortar mix, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
6. Consider Tile Size: If you’re using large tiles, you may need to remove some of the old ones to create a smooth and even surface for the new.
By following these steps, you can properly prepare your tile surface for installing wainscoting and achieve a beautiful finished look.
Measuring And Cutting The Beadboard
Before attaching the beadboard pieces, it’s important to measure and cut them to fit your walls. Start by measuring the height of the area where you want to install the beadboard. This will usually be enough height to cover the space where the tiles were.
Once you have your measurements, use a miter saw to cut the beadboard pieces to size. Make sure to measure twice and cut once to avoid any mistakes. If you need to make any notches or cuts around fixtures like outlets or switches, use a jigsaw to make precise cuts.
When cutting the beadboard, it’s important to make sure that the notches of each piece fit together tightly. Use wood glue to bond the notches together before attaching them to the plywood strips on the wall.
Remember to take your time when measuring and cutting the beadboard pieces. A little extra effort at this stage will ensure that your wainscoting looks professional and fits perfectly on your walls.
Attaching The Beadboard To The Tile
Attaching the beadboard to the tile can be a challenge, as drilling through tile is difficult and requires special tools. However, there is a solution that doesn’t involve nails or screws: Liquid Nails. This construction adhesive can securely and permanently adhere wood or paneling to slick tile.
To use Liquid Nails, apply it to the back of each beadboard piece as you stick them on the wall on top of the existing tile up to your level line. Make sure to use a caulking gun for easy application. Use wood glue to bond the notches of the pieces together.
It’s important to note that getting the beadboard to adhere to the tile may require some patience. Glue up one panel, wait for the glue to set a bit, then glue up the next panel, and so on. The tongue-in-groove joint on this type of paneling can be useful to secure the next piece while drying.
When using this method, it’s crucial to consider the weight of the panels. To prevent them from peeling off the wall, avoid adding all of them at once. Instead, add one panel at a time and wait for it to dry before adding another.
It’s worth noting that MDF beadboard panels are lighter and more flexible than heavy 4×8 sheets of plywood-beadboard. They also come in MDF shiplap style panels, which are easier to work with due to their smaller, lighter weight interlocking sections.
Attaching beadboard over a partial tile wall can create a complication, as it can cause the lower wall to protrude out from the upper half of the wall. To solve this issue, glue a plain piece of trim along the top edge of the beadboard.
Adding Trim And Finishing Touches
Adding trim and finishing touches to your wainscoting can elevate the overall look of your bathroom. Trimwork can bring detail and elegance to your walls, tying the different areas of your bathroom together.
One popular option for trimwork is recessed wainscoting. This classic treatment has withstood the passage of time and is a great way to add depth and texture to your walls. Raising the trimwork on the walls to match the depth of the tile in the shower allows for a flat surface to run crown molding across, tying the two areas together.
When installing wainscoting over tile, it’s important to consider the thickness of the wall. Paneling over a partial tile wall creates a protrusion of the lower wall out from the upper half of the wall. To solve this issue, you can glue a plain piece of trim along the top edge of the beadboard. This will create a seamless transition from the beadboard to the upper half of the wall.
In terms of materials, MDF beadboard panels are a great option for wainscoting as they are lighter and more flexible than heavy 4×8 sheets of plywood-beadboard. They also come in MDF shiplap style panels which can add a rustic touch to your bathroom. Liquid Nails can securely and permanently adhere wood or paneling even to slick tile, making it a great option for attaching your beadboard without the use of nails or screws.
To finish off your wainscoting, consider adding baseboard and top molding using a nail gun. This will give your wainscoting a polished look. Make sure to caulk all seams between the beadboard and baseboard/top molding and touch up any paint that may have been damaged during installation.
Trimwork is an important finishing touch that can take your bathroom to the next level. Whether you choose recessed wainscoting or another type of trimwork, it’s sure to add elegance and detail to your space.
Maintenance And Care Of Wainscoting Over Tile
Once your wainscoting over tile is installed, it’s important to maintain and care for it properly to ensure its longevity and appearance. Here are some tips for maintaining and caring for your wainscoting over tile:
1. Regular Cleaning: Wainscoting over tile can accumulate dirt, grime, and soap scum over time. Regular cleaning with a non-abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth or sponge will help keep it looking clean and fresh.
2. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on your wainscoting over tile as they can damage the finish and cause discoloration.
3. Check for Water Damage: Make sure to check for any signs of water damage, such as mold or mildew, around the edges of the wainscoting. If you notice any damage, address it immediately to prevent further damage.
4. Repair Any Damage: If you notice any chips, scratches, or other damage to the wainscoting over tile, repair it promptly to prevent further damage and maintain its appearance.
5. Seal Grout Lines: If your wainscoting over tile has grout lines, make sure to seal them regularly to prevent moisture from seeping in and causing damage.
By following these simple maintenance and care tips, you can ensure that your wainscoting over tile remains in great condition for years to come.