Can You Lay Tile Over Plywood Subfloor

Can You Lay Tile Over Plywood Subfloor?

Laying tile over a plywood subfloor is a popular option for many homeowners due to its relative ease and cost-effectiveness. However, it's essential to ensure that the plywood subfloor is suitable for tiling and that the installation process is carried out correctly to achieve optimal results.

Suitability of Plywood for Tiling

Plywood is a multi-layered wood product made by gluing thin sheets of wood together. It is a strong and stable material that can provide a suitable base for tile installation.

However, not all types of plywood are suitable for tiling. It's crucial to use exterior-grade plywood that has been treated to resist moisture and rot. The minimum recommended thickness for plywood used as a tile subfloor is 1/2 inch (12.7 mm).

Additionally, the plywood should be installed correctly, with a spacing of 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) between the sheets to allow for expansion and contraction.

Preparing the Plywood Subfloor

Before laying tile, it's essential to prepare the plywood subfloor properly. This includes:

Leveling the subfloor: Any unevenness in the subfloor can cause the tiles to crack or loosen over time. Use a level to check for any dips or high spots and use a floor leveler to level the surface.
Installing a vapor barrier: A vapor barrier helps prevent moisture from rising from the subfloor into the tile installation. Install a vapor barrier, such as a 6-mil plastic sheet, over the plywood subfloor, overlapping the edges by 6 inches (15.2 cm).
Installing a cement backer board: A cement backer board provides a stable and waterproof base for the tiles. Apply thin-set mortar to the plywood subfloor and lay the cement backer board over it, ensuring proper spacing between the sheets.

Laying the Tile

Once the plywood subfloor is properly prepared, you can proceed with laying the tiles:

Apply thin-set mortar: Spread a thin layer of thin-set mortar onto the cement backer board using a notched trowel.
Lay the tiles: Carefully place the tiles onto the thin-set mortar, pressing them into place. Use spacers to maintain consistent spacing between the tiles.
Grout the tiles: Once the thin-set mortar has dried, apply grout between the tiles using a grout float. Wipe away excess grout with a sponge.

Conclusion

Laying tile over a plywood subfloor can be a successful and cost-effective method when done correctly. Ensure the plywood is suitable for tiling, prepare the subfloor properly with a vapor barrier and cement backer board, and follow the proper steps for laying the tiles. By adhering to these guidelines, you can achieve a durable and visually appealing tile installation.