Tiling - Remove or Not remove

[bom1304]

We need to re-tile our kitchen, the current tiles have been on for 8 years since the house was built and are fixed to plasterboard, they seem to be very secure.

We keep getting conflicting advice whether or not to remove them, some people say they should come off fairly easy and leave the plasterboard in tact, others say tile over them as removing them will probably mean replastering.

What should we do?
Any other advice about removing / tiling over would be appreciated.
Many Thanks

 

[DAZB]

Unless the tiles are loose, and you mentioned they seem fairly secure, then I would advise that you tile over the top of them. Pulling them off will definately disturb at least some of the backing if not most of it and you will find yourself having to make good before you can tile it again. The best surface for tiling on is reputed to be a previously tiled area because it is smooth and flat and a good base for a fresh layer of tiles. One thing you will need to note is the switches and sockets will have to have longer screws due to the greater depth of tiling but they are easily available at any good DIY shop.

 

[bom1304]

Thanks for the advice, we are going to leave the tiles on.