Work on a new layer at the edge of a prepared surface
Protected edge and boundary of a surface being prepared
5 cm · layer boundary
roomsurfacedetail

Microcement / existing tiles

A new surface cannot repair an old problem.

Applying microcement over tiles may reduce demolition, but only when the existing surface is stable and suitable for the required preparation.

Send tile photos

Before we confirm the scope

What do we assess?

Photos are enough to begin. If they do not show the condition of the surface, we will explain what further verification is needed.

Tile stability

We check whether the tiles are firmly bonded and whether the surface shows detachment or movement.

Grout and cracks

The grout grid and existing cracks may need separate preparation and an assessment of their cause.

Moisture

In bathrooms and other wet areas, the full build-up matters, not only the visible tile surface.

Geometry and hidden layers

Unevenness, falls, thresholds and the layers below the tiles affect whether the work can proceed.

Protected edge and boundary of a surface being prepared
Real VPD material

Layers, not shortcuts

The most important decision begins below the visible surface.

Avoiding demolition is something to assess, not something to promise.

We confirm the scope for the specific project.

Four possible outcomes

Sometimes we prepare the surface. Sometimes the problem has to be exposed first.

Assessment may lead to acceptance, additional preparation, local repair or a recommendation to remove the tiles. An honest assessment matters more than a dust-free promise.

Wall versus floor

The same tiles may behave differently on a vertical surface and under floor loading. We assess the intended application.

Preparation

The preparation method follows the existing build-up and is confirmed for the specific tiled surface.

Boundaries of responsibility

The quote should identify which existing layers are assumed to be sound, what VPD will prepare and which conditions require a new decision.

Two VPD workers assessing a surface on site
On-site assessment
Preparing a surface before the next layer
Preparation
Close view of a hand-applied layer
Application

These images show general preparation work. We assess the condition of the existing tiles and grout separately for each project.

How the collaboration works

From assessing the existing tiles to deciding what can safely remain.

We assess the existing build-up first. Only then do we confirm the preparation and application of a new surface.

See the full process
01

Initial review

You send photos, approximate area, location, substrate information and preferred timing.

02

Reviewing the conditions

We review visible risks and decide whether further information or a site visit is needed.

03

Application

We complete the system stages and check the agreed critical details.

04

Handover and care

We complete the agreed work and provide information on correct use and care.

Project-specific quote

What affects the scope when applying over existing tiles?

Area alone does not show the condition of the substrate, the number of details or the organisation required on site.

See how we prepare a quote
  • condition and stability of the tiles
  • grout preparation required
  • geometry and details
  • possible repair or removal

No shortcuts

Frequently asked questions.

Can microcement always be applied over tiles?

No. It depends on tile stability, grout, cracks, moisture, geometry and the layers below.

Will the grout lines show through?

The grout pattern requires correct preparation. We do not confirm the result before assessing the surface and choosing a specific method.

Can all demolition be avoided?

Possibly, but it cannot be guaranteed. If the substrate is unstable or conceals a problem, removal may be the right solution.

Can microcement be applied over floor tiles?

It can be considered after assessing stability, loads, movement joints and geometry. A floor needs a different assessment from a dry wall.

Are photos enough for a quote?

They are often enough for an initial assessment. If they do not show the substrate condition or risk, we will need further information or a site visit.

What should I photograph?

Photograph the whole tiled surface, grout, cracks, drains, thresholds, corners and any areas that appear loose or damp.

Organisation on site

A new layer needs a controlled sequence.

The footage shows the VPD team coordinating work on one surface. Hidden layers are assessed separately for each project.

See the full process
Process excerptreal VPD footage · organisation of work on a surface

Initial assessment

Show us the tiled surface.

From photos and a short description, we will check whether we have enough to prepare a quote or need more information.

Enough to get started

  • the complete tiled surface
  • grout, cracks and any loose areas
  • thresholds, drains and edges
  • information about moisture or previous problems
You do not need to know the technical system or prepare a complete specification.
Send tile photos