QUESTION

Can I install Travertine over existing marble? - I have a very ugly marble tiled hearth and fireplace front. I would like to replace it with some travertine tile. Do I need to remove the marble tile, or is there a product available that will adhere the travertine to it?

ANSWER

ANSWER - If the marble is substantially attached to its substrate, then you can adhere the new travertine stone to it.

First you must scarify the surface of the marble to remove any contaminates and make it textured surface.  Then you should use a high performance latex or polymer modified thin-set that will achieve a shear bond strength of 300 psi or greater to a porcelain tile per ANSI A118.4-5.2, which will indicate that it should get a good bond between the scarified marble surface and the travertine.  You can use a dustless grinder to scarify the surface of the marble or use a regular grinder with a wet and dry vacuum hose to collect the dust.  Be sure to thoroughly clean the surface of the marble after it is scarified with clean water.  Let it dry before adhering the travertine to it.  Good luck.