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.
Ceramic tile on concrete floor prep.
Using an acid based cleaner or deep cleaner of your choice clean the concrete and allow it to dry thoroughly.
Prepare the subfloor repair cracks and holes.
Remove any carpet or other flooring.
A concrete floor is a good base for laying ceramic tiles provided it is level and free of cracks or abrasions.
Add about 10 to that number to account for any possible mistakes and warped boards.
To prepare your concrete subfloor make sure that it can accept water penetration.
If it tests positive follow these asbestos abatement procedures.
Determine how much flooring and materials will be needed.
Use concrete filler or a similar floor patching compound to repair the damage.
Installing ceramic tiles over concrete can help to create a more inviting indoor or outdoor living space.
Patch little cracks or holes with a cement patching compound.
Additionally a steps must be taken to ensure that a concrete floor will create a solid bond.
Inspect the floor and repair cracks pits holes or other uneven patches.
Cracks and depressions may create weak spots that cause tile to crack in the future.
Use a trowel to apply and use the edge to ensure the patch has edges level with the surrounding concrete.
Seal off the area with poly sheeting.
How to prepare concrete floor for ceramic tile.
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 re unsure about yours remove a tile and send it to a local asbestos abatement firm for testing.
How to prepare for laying tile over a concrete floor.
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.
Concrete floors are durable and easy to clean but not very attractive.
If you have a vinyl floor you may be able to install your flooring directly on top of it.
Test by sprinkling water on various areas of the subfloor.
Multiply length times width of the room.
A sound surface is necessary when preparing concrete floor for tile installation.
As with a wooden subfloor a concrete subfloor must be level for successful tile installation.
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.
Self leveling compound can be purchased at your local home improvement store.