Test by sprinkling water on various areas of the subfloor.
Ceramic tile on concrete floor prep.
Inspect the floor and repair cracks pits holes or other uneven patches.
Using an acid based cleaner or deep cleaner of your choice clean the concrete and allow it to dry thoroughly.
Concrete floors are durable and easy to clean but not very attractive.
One of the first steps in refinishing a basement or turning a garage.
After all cracks and uneven areas in the concrete can cause damage to the tile above and uncontrolled moisture in the concrete can destroy the mortar and loosen the tiles.
Seal off the area with poly sheeting.
Cracks and depressions may create weak spots that cause tile to crack in the future.
If you re going to install tiles in wet areas such as bathrooms and balconies you need to apply a waterproofing membrane or paint first.
Most floor tiles made from the 1920s to the 1960s contain asbestos and require special procedures for removal.
However laying vinyl flooring over concrete requires a bit more preparation.
Additionally a steps must be taken to ensure that a concrete floor will create a solid bond.
Remove any carpet or other flooring.
Self leveling compound can be purchased at your local home improvement store.
If it tests positive follow these asbestos abatement procedures.
Use a trowel to apply and use the edge to ensure the patch has edges level with the surrounding concrete.
Determine how much flooring and materials will be needed.
Multiply length times width of the room.
Prepare the subfloor repair cracks and holes.
Use concrete filler or a similar floor patching compound to repair the damage.
To prepare your concrete subfloor make sure that it can accept water penetration.
A concrete floor is a good base for laying ceramic tiles provided it is level and free of cracks or abrasions.
Installing ceramic tiles over concrete can help to create a more inviting indoor or outdoor living space.
When you take time to prepare the concrete floor you ll have a better chance of creating an even tile design that looks great and is built to last.
If you discovered any defects on the floor fill them with a concrete patch or self leveling compound to achieve a flat surface that s ready to receive ceramic tiles.
If you re unsure about yours remove a tile and send it to a local asbestos abatement firm for testing.
How to prepare concrete floor for ceramic tile.
How to prepare for laying tile over a concrete floor.
A sound surface is necessary when preparing concrete floor for tile installation.
Add about 10 to that number to account for any possible mistakes and warped boards.
