Installing Backer Board On Floor For Tiling

Using a notched trowel apply a leveling bed of thinset mortar over the subfloor and embed the backer board sheets into the adhesive.

Installing backer board on floor for tiling.

Second the strength of wood boards isn t always consistent. Lay the backer board according to the manufacturer s instructions. Installing backer board involves three main steps. Spread the mortar to about 3 16 thickness.

Install a cement based backer board following the manufacturer s instructions. To install ceramic tile over wood the wood surface must be structurally sound enough to support the weight of the tile. Installing over wood. Half inch cement backer board is ideal for most tiling jobs including walls floors countertops and ceilings.

Installation of cement backerboard is always preceded by application of thinset mortar which fills low spots in the subfloor and anchors the backer board sheets. Its made from cement and sand and is reinforced by fiberglass mats on both sides so it s impervious to water. Never install new tiles over existing tiles or onto an unprotected wood or plywood floor. It s typically available in 1 2 in.

Cement board is the most durable trouble free tile backer for tub surrounds showers floors and all other wet areas. Use a trowel to spread the thinset but before you do that be sure you ve scraped off old adhesive from any existing flooring you removed and vacuumed and cleaned well. Installations for floor tile and other horizontal surfaces like countertops require an extra step of applying thin set tile adhesive to the wood subfloor before laying down the cement board sheets. Cutting fastening and taping and mudding.

Thick 3 x 5 ft. How to install tile backer board. For flooring the backer board should be installed over a 5 8 inch thick osb or plywood base. Whenever you re laying tile on a wood subfloor you need to first install cement backerboard to prevent leaks and water damage.

Unlike wood or drywall sub surfaces cement backerboard will not rot warp or grow mold and mildew when exposed to water. 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. Add more mortar as necessary to fill sunken areas in. This provides a solid surface under the tile that prevents flexing that could lead to cracking.

First changes in humidity make solid wood shrink swell and cup more than plywood. For countertops use 3 4 inch plywood beneath the backer board.