Installing ceramic tile on concrete may appear to be a daunting task to those who have never engaged in such work. However, even if one is inexperienced with such projects, he or she will quickly discover that jobs, but concrete is a great surface on which to install ceramic tile. While certain individuals prefer wood flooring Oklahoma City, others are pleased to discover that installing ceramic tile over concrete is not at all difficult. By following the simple steps outlined below, a homeowner will find that he or she can install ceramic tile over concrete just like a pro.
Number One
Step one is to mix up a full pail of trisodium phosphate solution, which should be made according to instructions from the manufacturer. A tough scrub brush should be used to clean the concrete floor. No dirt should be left behind and the floor should be dried completely before one proceeds to step two.
Number Two
It is important to look over the floor carefully in order to find blemished or cracks that will require fixing before the new floor is installed. If such problem areas are found they should be remedied before moving forward with the project.
Number Three
Uneven areas of the floor must be discovered as well. Such areas must be leveled prior to laying ceramic tile. If not, the floor will be uneven and the tiles will eventually crack.
Number Four
The surface on which the ceramic tile will be laid must be dry, clean and free of problems. However, if the concrete is too smooth, the mortar used to install the tile will not stick. For this reason an acid etching agent or sander should be used to slightly roughen the surface.
Number Five
The room should be surveyed by the homeowner, who must plan the layout of the tile. This may appear to be an unimportant step. However, when it comes time to cut the tiles, which is something that is typically necessary, it is better to cut the tiles located at the room’s edge, rather than its center.
Number Six
Now it is time to mix some of the mortar that will be needed to lay the tile, but it is wise to avoid making too much as it quickly hardens. One may also choose to invest in a premixed adhesive.
Number Seven
The next step is to use a trowel to spread the mix over one small area at a time. The tiles will adhere better if they are gone over with a notched trowel. The tiles should be pressed and wiggled into the mortar to ensure that they will set. Spacers can also be used to keep the areas between the tiles even.
Number Eight
The mortar should be left to completely dry, during which time one can mix the grout. Once the mortar dries, the grout should be generously spread over the spaces in between the tiles and the excess should be wiped away as one goes along.
Number Nine
The grout should be given ample time to set and then step eight should be repeated. After this, the grout should be left to thoroughly dry.
Step Ten
After the grout is completely dry, wet cloths should be used to wash the entire surface of the floor. After the tiles have dried they should be polished with a cloth to remove any residue that remains. Grout sealer can also be used to prevent staining.
Although some people prefer wood floor installation Oklahoma City, it is much easier to lay ceramic tile on concrete, which is considered by many to be a perfect alternative to hardwood floors Oklahoma City.