Download ArticleDownload ArticleThis article was co-authored by Art Fricke. Art Fricke is a home renovation and repair specialist and the owner of Art Tile & Renovation based in Austin, Texas. With over 10 years of experience, he specializes in bathroom and kitchen renovations. Art focuses on a single contractor approach to customized renovation work, and performs projects such as installing custom tile showers, fixing tiled shower leaks, replacing cracked tiles, and installing floor and wall tile.
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A concrete floor is a good base for laying ceramic tiles, provided it is level and free of cracks or abrasions. Self-leveling compound can be purchased at your local home improvement store and applied to the concrete floor prior to tiling. Cleaning and filling any cracks in the floor takes a little time, and the only precautions to take prior to tiling are to make sure that the floor is completely dry, as the thinset used for tile needs a moisture-free environment.[1] The following steps will allow you to prepare a concrete floor before you lay your tiles.
Steps
Sweep the floor for dust and debris. Use a broom to sweep any debris from the floor.
Remove dust. Use a wet mop to get any remaining dust from the cement floor. Leveling compounds are sensitive to dust so it's important to remove the dust with water.[2] Allow the floor to dry for at least 1 hour.
Use a level to check the floor. Use a large carpenter's level to identify low areas of the floor. Move the level across the floor and use a marker to mark low levels of the concrete.
Apply self-leveling compound.[4] Mix the self-leveling compound in a bucket according to package directions. Pour the compound into a bucket. Slowly pour the compound into the areas that you previously marked as low. The compound will expand and rise to reach the correct levels of the rest of the concrete. Use a trowel to spread the compound until it is as flat and smooth as possible. Allow the compound to dry for 24 hours before starting on your tile.[5]
Expert Q&A
Video
Tips
- When mixing thinset, wear protective eyewear and gloves to avoid the chemical compounds from getting on your skin or in your eyes.Thanks
- Self-leveling compound has a very quick setting time. Once mixed, you will only have about 15 to 20 minutes to apply it. To allow maximum work time, do not spend more than 2 to 3 minutes mixing it.Thanks
Things You'll Need
- Broom
- Mop
- Thinset mortar
- Bucket
- Trowel
- Masonry float
- Concrete latex primer
- Paint tray
- Paint roller
- Marker
- Self-leveling compound
References
- ↑ Art Fricke. Home Renovation & Repair Specialist. Expert Interview. 1 July 2020.
- ↑ Art Fricke. Home Renovation & Repair Specialist. Expert Interview. 1 July 2020.
- ↑ Art Fricke. Home Renovation & Repair Specialist. Expert Interview. 1 July 2020.
- ↑ Art Fricke. Home Renovation & Repair Specialist. Expert Interview. 1 July 2020.
- ↑ https://www.homedepot.com/c/ah/how-to-prepare-a-subfloor-for-tile-installation/9ba683603be9fa5395fab90dfe976f0
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GJ1oUj1zKAQ&NR=1
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