Concrete Slab Prep For Tile

Patch little cracks or holes with a cement patching compound.

Concrete slab prep for tile.

How to prepare for laying tile over a concrete floor things you will need. Crack isolation membranes keep imperfections in the concrete slab from spreading up to the tile. Follow the directions on the packaging to properly mix the thin set mortar. No matter how dirty or clean the concrete floor looks start the process by sweeping the floor.

Don t lay tiles on a concrete slab with cracks that appear to be spreading or irregularities that prevent you from leveling it. 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. Never lay tile over a damaged concrete floor without repairing it or your tiles may crack or lift.

Use a trowel to apply and use the edge to ensure the patch has edges level with the surrounding concrete. Stir the thinset thoroughly with a trowel. If you attach the tile to concrete you need to take special precautions by uncoupling the tile from the concrete. There are different kinds to choose from.

Tsp is a high strength cleaner which is useful for removing dirt grease and oil from your existing surface. How to prepare concrete for a tile installation 1. Masons often use a crack isolation membrane when setting tile outdoors. Then prime the concrete see photo 2 with the recommended solution consult the membrane manufacturer s literature.

Use a large bucket and. Let the primer dry and then apply the membrane photos 3 and 4. Cut the membrane so it s 1 1 2 times the width of your tiles. Mix up a bucket of tsp tri sodium phosphate solution.

Cracks and depressions may create weak spots that cause tile to crack in the future. 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. 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.

Scrub the floor with a brush and tsp and allow it to dry thoroughly. Lay down a sheet of crack isolation membrane before tiling if your concrete floor is severely damaged or aged. Pour the thinset in any cracks to about 1 4 inch 0 6 cm above the floor surface. Identify and fill any cracks in the concrete.

Mix thinset mortar with water in a bucket according to package instructions. Rather than using cement boards cbus the favored method is to use an uncoupling membrane.