How To Prep Concrete Floor For Porcelain Tile

This option works best when the concrete floor is in good condition so take care to follow all of the steps below to.

How to prep concrete floor for porcelain tile.

I will stay within the lines that we drew on the floor in tips 1 and 2. Let the primer dry and then apply the membrane photos 3 and 4. Once your repairs have dried take the time to seal the concrete. A sound surface is necessary when preparing concrete floor for tile installation.

1 remove dirt debris and grease by cleaning the entire concrete surface with soapy water. Cut the membrane so it s 1 1 2 times the width of your tiles. Cracks and depressions may create weak spots that cause tile to crack in the future. Skip this step and we guarantee your new tile will crack right over the cracks in the concrete.

To prepare your concrete subfloor make sure that it can accept water penetration. Use a trowel to apply and use the edge to ensure the patch has edges level with the surrounding concrete. Prepare the thinset according to the manufacturer s instructions and mix it well in a container. Then prime the concrete see photo 2 with the recommended solution consult the membrane manufacturer s literature.

Cover the entire floor with 1 coat. Patch little cracks or holes with a cement patching compound. Once the thin set is mixed i then use my tile trowel the notched side to spread the thin set over the dip in the floor. Scoop out a good amount of the mixture and transfer it to the notched trowel.

Take a look at the two most common options for preparing a concrete floor. In many cases you can lay tile directly on the concrete surface which is naturally hard and durable. Additionally a steps must be taken to ensure that a concrete floor will create a solid bond. Begin the application of the mortar on a small portion of the floor enough to cover the area of one cement backer board.

Cleaning the concrete should be done before adding a floor leveling compound. Start working on the corners for easier installation. Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of a good degreasing cleanser such as dishwashing soap or trisodium phosphate to a gallon of warm water and scrub. Sweep the floor thoroughly to remove all dust and debris.

Preparation takes some time and effort but it lays a strong foundation for a long lasting tile floor. Now you are ready to rake the dip. Once the sealer has dried apply the concrete patch or leveler and make sure that you have a flat surface with no defects. Test by sprinkling water on various areas of the subfloor.

Use a paint roller to apply the primer to the floor. Install tile directly on the concrete floor. As with a wooden subfloor a concrete subfloor must be level for successful tile installation.