How To Install Ceramic Floor Tile For Outdoor Use

Six keys to successful outdoor tile setting.

How to install ceramic floor tile for outdoor use.

As you near cabinets doorways walls and other flooring stops trim tiles as needed for installation. Be sure to put spacers between each tile as you go. The tile itself should also be rated for outdoor use and as a general rule porcelain tends to be more durable than ceramic. For making curved cuts you can use tile nippers.

Next lay out a row of loose tiles along the center lines in both directions leaving spaces for uniform joints use tile spacers. If this layout leaves cuts smaller than 1 2 tile at walls adjust the center line by snapping a new line 1 2 tile closer to the wall. Installing a tile floor in any of these rooms will give you an easy to clean waterproof floor that holds up against weather and wear. If you are using tile chances are that it s in a setting where moisture is a given kitchen bath entryway and so on make sure you use a waterproof adhesive.

Use a tile saw or wet saw both rentable if necessary for cutting numerous or thick tiles. Generally ceramic porcelain or stone tile can be installed over suitable substrates in exterior locations including mortar beds over concrete slabs and directly onto concrete slabs. Finally choose a grout that will resist stains and fading so your project will still look good for years to come. Repeat along other center line if necessary.

In this section we provide you with an overview of how ceramic porcelain or stone tile can be used in exterior patios walkways porches. Use long sweeping motions to apply mortar to the wall and start placing your tiles in the marked locations. Tile floors are an attractive functional option for kitchens bathrooms laundry rooms and entryways. Use a tile cutter for small straight cuts.

Expensive patio tiles won t necessarily outlast moderately priced tile but with thin set grout sealer and caulk you get what you pay for. Use high quality materials only. Install ceramic tile over a subfloor that s no less than 1 1 8 inches thick. Most tile manufacturers recommend installing a cement backer board instead of any other type of.

A thinner subfloor will cause the floor to flex due to the weight of the tile. If the tile is too thick for nippers try the following. Of course it should also have a slip resistant surface. A flexing subfloor results in cracked tiles and grout and a lot of headaches.