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How to Tile Over Cement Floors

by J. Cavan Barry

  • Overview

    Flooring tile is available in hundreds of different colors and sizes that can suit just about any aesthetic desire. Tile is a versatile flooring material that can be applied to any floor surface and laying tile is a job that can be completed by just about anyone. Cement is one of the most commonly used building materials for foundations in homes today, and offers an optimum surface for tile application because it is usually made from elements with similar expansion and contraction characteristics as tile.
 

  • Step 1

    Clean any debris from the cement floor with the vacuum cleaner.

  • Step 2

    Measure and mark the center of the floor along one wall and repeat on the opposite wall, then snap a chalk line down the center of the floor to be used as a reference.

  • Step 3

    Mix the thinset in a 5-gallon bucket using the electric drill and mixing paddle. Refer to the thinset packaging for mixing instructions.

  • Step 4

    Using the mastic trowel, spread the thinset along the chalk line made in Step 2 and lay the first row of tiles (straight along the chalk line), pressing firmly to the thinset to ensure a good bond.

  • Step 5

    Apply thinset and set tiles toward the adjacent walls, working first to the wall opposite the room exit to avoid getting stuck in a corner. You can cut tiles to fit against the walls using the angle grinder with a masonry blade.

  • Step 6

    Allow the thinset to dry before moving on to the next step; refer to thinset packaging for drying times.

  • Step 7

    Mix the grout in the 5-gallon bucket using the electric drill and mixing paddle; refer to grout packaging for mixing instructions.

  • Step 8

    Fill the grout bag with grout, pinching the bottom opening to regulate grout flow. Starting in the far corner from the room exit, apply grout into the tile joints. Apply grout in small amounts so you will be able to wipe excess grout from the tiles with the large sponge (keep a bucket of water to rinse sponge as necessary). Continue this process, working your way through the room.

  • Step 9

    Repeat Steps 1 through 8 on other cement floors to be covered with tile.
  • 3
  • Tile Thinset 5-gallon bucket Mastic trowel Tile grout Grout bag Large sponge Angle grinder with masonry blade Tape measure Chalk line Vacuum cleaner Tile spacers (optional)
  • Tile
  • Thinset
  • 5-gallon bucket
  • Mastic trowel
  • Tile grout
  • Grout bag
  • Large sponge
  • Angle grinder with masonry blade
  • Tape measure
  • Chalk line
  • Vacuum cleaner
  • Tile spacers (optional)

References & Resources

  • Ceramic Tile Setting; John P. Bridge and Robert A. Bedient; 1992
     
     
 
 

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