Indeed! Tiling can be achieved by utilizing plywood as a foundation. Nevertheless, it is advisable to avoid directly placing tiles on the plywood subfloor. Instead, employ a thin layer of plywood as an intermediary.
Although it is possible to install tiles on plywood, it is crucial for the plywood subfloor to have a minimum thickness of three centimeters (1¾”).
To ensure durability, experts and local building authorities recommend employing a concrete backer board in conjunction with the plywood. It’s important to note that each state has its own guidelines regarding subfloor thickness, so it’s essential to research and adhere to the specific regulations in your area.
Given that a standard plywood sheet is merely 14 inches (0.5 cm) thick, an additional sheet of plywood will be required on top of the initial layer. I delve into all the essential details about tiling on plywood and provide precise instructions in this comprehensive article.
Is It Possible to Tile Over Plywood?
Hexagonal tiles gracefully adorning a wooden floor.
Although thin-set adhesive can be used to install tiles directly on a concrete slab, it is not recommended for plywood flooring. Over time, cracks may appear in the grout lines or tiles, regardless of the sturdiness of the subfloor. This is due to the differential expansion and contraction rates of plywood and tiles.
Tiles offer an aesthetically pleasing option with a wide variety of styles, shapes, and colors. However, it’s important to consider whether plywood is a suitable flooring material for this purpose. Let’s delve into all the necessary information.
As a general rule, tiles should be laid on top of plywood. However, it is essential to install a 1¼” or 3 cm thick cement backer board first. This approach ensures that the subfloor is sufficiently robust to support the tiles.
Keep in mind that the subfloor thickness requirements can vary in different jurisdictions. For accurate guidance, it is recommended to consult your local building authority.
For example, building codes in California may differ from those in Georgia. To obtain the best advice, reaching out to a tiling contractor is highly recommended.
In general, plywood serves as an excellent subfloor and provides a more comfortable walking experience compared to concrete, as it has a slight bounce to it.
When it comes to installing tiles on plywood, the process is similar to that of any other surface. It is crucial to eliminate air bubbles in the tile mortar used for adhering the tiles to the plywood flooring. The installation of tiles on plywood can be accomplished through a few simple steps.
Testing Plywood Flexibility
To assess whether the plywood deflects, perform a straightforward test. Place a dinner dish or a cereal bowl on the plywood surface. Fill the bowl to the brim with liquid from a separate container.
Take a few steps around the bowl on the plywood before returning to your original position. Vibrations should cause ripples in the water, but they should not reach the plate.
If the plywood deflects excessively, additional screws should be used to reinforce the boards. If the issue persists, it may indicate problems with the floor joists. One method to strengthen the joists is by attaching 2x8s or 2x10s to the bottom of the existing joists.
What Is the Optimal Method for Tiling Over Plywood?
Tiles and a leveling bar for tile installation.
Before delving into the initial phase, it is important to familiarize yourself with the necessary tools:
– Tiles
– Level
– Pencil
– Grout
– Cement board
– Mortar
– Spacers
– Tile cutter
– Notch trowels
– Scraper
– Cloth
– Sponge
– Buckets
– Vacuum cleaner
– Mixing paddle
– Tape measure
– Chalk string
Wiping Down the Plywood
Initiate the process by cleaning the surface of the plywood. This will facilitate the smooth installation of the cement board. Use a scraper to remove any adhesive or dried plaster from the plywood’s surface. Afterward, sweep or vacuum the entire area.
Installing the Cement Board Over the Plywood
To enhance the plywood foundation, it is essential to install a cement board. Unroll and lay out the cement board, then firmly affix it to the plywood.
To ensure stability, use a chalk string to mark the spots where nails should be placed. As a general guideline, nail every 6 inches (15 cm) along the border and every 8 inches (20 cm) in the center.
Create a grid pattern on top of the cement board using a chalk string. Drive nails into the ground every six inches around the perimeter. Then, using the chalk string, draw an 8-inch grid for the central nails on the board.
It might seem like an excessive number of nails, but employing this method will ensure the longevity of your floor.
Ensure Proper Screw Depth
When screwing down the top layer, make sure not to penetrate beyond the bottom layer of plywood. By fastening the nails back into the studs, the advantage of having a double-layered floor is nullified, as it transfers movement from the joist to the outer part of the plywood.
Laying Out the Tiles
Now, it’s time to arrange the tiles to visualize the final outcome. In most cases, having a thin strip of tile at the edge of a room is undesirable. Start by