How To Install Tile Flooring On Cement

Cement backerboard is a thin layer of concrete with fiberglass mesh on both sides.

How to install tile flooring on cement.

This is an optional step but can really benefit your tile installation in the long run. A flexing subfloor results in cracked tiles and grout and a lot of headaches. For ceramic tile floors the cement board usually rests on a plywood subfloor minimum 5 8 inch thick exterior grade plywood or osb if new ceramic tile is being laid on an existing floor the cement board can usually be laid right over the existing floor finish provided it is in good shape and the extra floor thickness is not a problem. Ceramic and porcelain tile are so frequently installed at or above grade level on a cement board underlayment or directly on plywood that it almost seems novel to install tile directly on concrete.

Yet this application does make sense since concrete is heavy solid and is typically thought of as an unbending uncompromising material. Step 3 plan your layout. Installing ceramic tiles over concrete can help to create a more inviting indoor or outdoor living space. Visit our page on cleaning cement tile for more information.

Cement tiles should be regularly mopped with clean water. The next step is to apply a concrete sealer on the floor surface. To install ceramic tile over wood the wood surface must be structurally sound enough to support the weight of the tile. A concrete sealer prevents moisture from staying underneath the ceramic tiles.

It s available in sheets of many sizes with 3 foot by 5 foot sheets being the most common. Most tile manufacturers recommend installing a cement backer board instead of any other type of underlayment such as plywood. Cement tile floor care. It will also provide a stronger adhesion between mortar and concrete.

Using an acid based cleaner or deep cleaner of your choice clean the concrete and allow it to dry thoroughly. In some cases particularly with new construction settling and shifting of the substrate may cause cracks to develop. Never use acids to clean the encaustic cement tiles as it will cause damage. Installing over wood.

A thinner subfloor will cause the floor to flex due to the weight of the tile.