Before tiling, you should install a backer board (or cement board) on the subfloor. This helps to stabilize the floor and provides a moisture-resistant base for the tiles. In some cases, a waterproof membrane may be necessary, especially in wet areas like around the bathtub.
Install a cement-based backer board following the manufacturer's instructions. This provides a solid surface under the tile that prevents flexing that could lead to cracking. Backer board panels typically measure 3-feet by 5-feet and can be trimmed as needed.
To get a perfectly square corner, you want to aim for a measurement ratio of 3:4:5. In other words, you want a three-foot length on your straight line, a four-foot length on your perpendicular line, and a five-foot length across. If all three measurements are correct, you'll have a perfectly square corner.
Apply a Waterproof Membrane:
To provide an extra layer of protection, it's advisable to apply a waterproof membrane on the entire surface that will be tiled. This membrane serves as a barrier against water penetration and helps prevent any potential leaks.
Penetrating sealers are the most commonly used and offer high water, chemical and stain resistance. They provide protection without changing the appearance of the grout joint.
Install an Intervening Sheet of Plywood
Do not install tile directly on the plywood subfloor itself.
One of the first questions that many people before installation is whether to use plywood or cement board under tile. While you can technically install most tiles on any smooth, clean substrate, using cement backerboard will give you superior results every time.
Backer board is the most favored tile underlayment option when installing ceramic or porcelain tile. It comes in rigid panels that contain a blend of cement, fiberglass, and sometimes crushed glass particles.
The golden rule when installing tiles is install on a concrete floor where possible and always ensure it's level by applying a levelling compound beforehand – watch this video to find out exactly how.
WPC Vinyl is a combination of wood, plastic and vinyl tile, and is considered the easiest to install. This is because it's waterproof and is much more flexible and easy to work with compared to porcelain or ceramic tiles, which are brittle.
Tile Underlayment Backer Boards
Tile backer board is the most common underlayment for tile. Backer board is installed over both walls and floors and can be used in both wet and dry areas. There are several types and brands of backer board.
Unless you are in a situation where it is impossible to redo the floor tile due to the flange already being put in, never put the tiles below the existing toilet and the flange. Having the tiles go under the toilet makes it much easier to do repairs or removals.
Begin laying tile in the center of the room and work your way out. Lay a single row of tiles in both directions without mortar. Start at the center point and work outward. This dry layout will make sure your finished project will be centered.
Embed the cement board in latex-modified thin-set mortar
Then spread thinset mortar with the flat side of a 1/4-in. notched trowel and use the notched edge to “comb” the mortar. Embed the cement board and screw it to the underlayment with special 1-1/4 in. cement board screws spaced every 4 in.
If you compare the two configurations using identical thinset mortars, tiles installed over cement backerboard have greater shear-bond strength than those that are installed over plywood.
The distinguishing feature of DITRA is the existence of free space created by the configured channels on the underside of the matting. The free space provides an escape route for excess moisture and vapor that could otherwise cause damage to the tile layer above.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Prep for Tile Floor
For concrete floors, clean the surface thoroughly, repair any cracks with a suitable filler, and use a self-leveling compound to even out any uneven spots. This is how to level a concrete floor before tiling.
Traditionally, you would use modified thinset to adhere tile to a plywood subfloor. Due to its absorbent and porous nature, plywood is capable of sucking the moisture out of unmodified thinset. Leaving less water in the mixture will allow for less hydration, and cause a weak bond between the tile and the subfloor.
In the simplest of terms, backer boards are prefabricated sheets (commonly constructed from cement-based materials) that are attached to walls and floors to form a sturdy base onto which tiles can be laid.
Whoever installed your floors most likely did not seal the grout because it needs time to harden and cure completely.
Being naturally water-resistant, Epoxy grout is an excellent choice if you plan on laying tiles in your front or back garden. Epoxy grout is made up of a unique blend of a filler powder form grout and epoxy resins, making it the best grout to use for outdoor projects.
It is important not to leave any excess sealer on the tile surface because it won't get absorbed and it can leave a sticky surface that can become a maintenance problem.