Concrete Slab Prep For Tile

No matter how dirty or clean the concrete floor looks start the process by sweeping the floor.

Concrete slab prep for tile.

Patch little cracks or holes with a cement patching compound. If you attach the tile to concrete you need to take special precautions by uncoupling the tile from the concrete. Stir the thinset thoroughly with a trowel. Use a trowel to apply and use the edge to ensure the patch has edges level with the surrounding concrete.

Use a large bucket and. Don t lay tiles on a concrete slab with cracks that appear to be spreading or irregularities that prevent you from leveling it. Tsp is a high strength cleaner which is useful for removing dirt grease and oil from your existing surface. Mix thinset mortar with water in a bucket according to package instructions.

Cracks and depressions may create weak spots that cause tile to crack in the future. How to prepare for laying tile over a concrete floor things you will need. Follow the directions on the packaging to properly mix the thin set mortar. Cut the membrane so it s 1 1 2 times the width of your tiles.

Crack isolation membranes keep imperfections in the concrete slab from spreading up to the tile. A sound surface is necessary when preparing concrete floor for tile installation. Use a polymer modified thin set a type of mortar to attach the backer board to the subfloor. There are different kinds to choose from.

Before you get to work take the time to gather the supplies and tools you ll need. With the cracks patched apply a latex modified crack resistant thin set. Lay down a sheet of crack isolation membrane before tiling if your concrete floor is severely damaged or aged. Mix up a bucket of tsp tri sodium phosphate solution.

Never lay tile over a damaged concrete floor without repairing it or your tiles may crack or lift. Then prime the concrete see photo 2 with the recommended solution consult the membrane manufacturer s literature. Scrub the floor with a brush and tsp and allow it to dry thoroughly. How to prepare concrete for a tile installation 1.

With a trowel scoop out and spread enough mortar on. The substrate for tiles shorter than 15 inches must be so flat that it varies no more than 1 16 inch per foot according to the ceramic tile education foundation. Let the primer dry and then apply the membrane photos 3 and 4. Rather than using cement boards cbus the favored method is to use an uncoupling membrane.

Masons often use a crack isolation membrane when setting tile outdoors. Some also keep water out of the installation area.