Preparing Concrete Shower Floor Tile

A poor mortar job can result in loose tile that pops out.

Preparing concrete shower floor tile.

Before you lay any sort of tile whether it is stone ceramic or peel and stick vinyl you must prepare your concrete floor to ensure that the tiles will go down properly and stay where they re. With the cracks patched apply a latex modified crack resistant thin set. The following five part series gives a basic overview of building a shower floor for tile. Then prime the concrete see photo 2 with the recommended solution consult the membrane manufacturer s literature.

Make your diy shower tile experience easier with these pro tips from the tile shop. Test by sprinkling water on various areas of the subfloor. Let the primer dry and then apply the membrane photos 3 and 4. Since the shower is a potentially hazardous area it is recommended to use only ceramic glazed or tiles specifically designed for high moisture areas.

This how to video is a quick excerpt from a diy show. If the concrete subfloor is not prepared properly problems like ceramic tile cracks can occur. It is very effective in removing dirt oil and grease on concrete surfaces. As with a wooden subfloor a concrete subfloor must be level for successful tile installation.

To prepare your concrete subfloor make sure that it can accept water penetration. Follow along to learn how to fabricate a custom shower base in your bathroom. Right before you re ready wipe the concrete shower pan with a damp sponge to remove any remaining dust which could prevent the thinset from adhering. Cut the membrane so it s 1 1 2 times the width of your tiles.

Cut the tiles and dry fit them again to ensure a snug fit. Use the level to check the entire concrete. Before tiling a shower be sure the drain and sub floor are properly seal. Watch as homeowners learn to pour a shower base and prep the floor for tiling.

If you would like a complete step by step of the entire process with all the little idiosyncrasies and details i now have manuals describing the complete process for you from bare wall studs all the way up to a completely waterproof shower substrate for your tile. Additionally a steps must be taken to ensure that a concrete floor will create a solid bond. First you need to prepare the tsp solution according to the package instructions. Smooth thinset on the concrete to create a 1 8 inch thick layer.