Yet this application does make sense since concrete is heavy solid and is typically thought of as an unbending uncompromising material.
How to install ceramic tile on concrete outside.
Check falls throughout installation and adjust by tapping the tiles with a rubber mallet.
Installing ceramic tiles over concrete can help to create a more inviting indoor or outdoor living space.
For starters moisture and cracking are bigger concerns outside so you need to apply a waterproofing and crack isolating membrane to the slab before you begin.
Ceramic and porcelain tile are so frequently installed at or above grade level on a cement board underlayment or directly on plywood that it almost seems novel to install tile directly on concrete.
Installing over wood.
Your first task in laying tile outdoors to build a patio will be to provide a solid base.
For about 6 000 years builders have been using ceramic tile outdoors on buildings walkways even streets.
Firstly and very importantly porcelain tiles have different grades and you will need to check that your chosen tiles are grade 5 i e.
If using a primer you need to be very careful to remove this from the surface and sides of the tile immediately.
Here s what you need to know.
Prepare concrete slabs.
When thinking about using porcelain tiles outdoors there are a number of important considerations to take into account.
Chipboard cushioned vinyl flooring particle boards of any type oriented strand board osb interior grade plywood tongue and groove planking and hardwood floors are unsuitable substrates for direct installation of ceramic tile.
To install ceramic tile over wood the wood surface must be structurally sound enough to support the weight of the tile.
There are two options for helping the tile stick.
Ordinary concrete is fine for your average backyard patio but to create a rich inviting outdoor patio space installing tile is the best way to go.
These substrates must be structurally sound meet deflection requirements and meet on plane requirements.
There is a huge selection of tile styles and colors for you to choose from and the greatest benefit of using tiles is that they can be laid directly on top of preexisting concrete.
Not only does tile offer a range.
The following article deals with preparing an existing concrete base but it also links to a resource devoted to pouring a new concrete slab.
Suitable for outdoor use.
Often people want to cover a concrete patio or porch with tile and need to know how that differs from indoor tile installation.
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.
Using an acid based cleaner or deep cleaner of your choice clean the concrete and allow it to dry thoroughly.