Do You Put Cement Board Under Tile Floor

Do You Put Cement Board Under Tile Floor?

One of the essential components of a successful tile installation is the substrate. This is the layer that provides a stable and level surface for the tile to adhere to. In many cases, cement board is used as the substrate for tile floors.

Cement board is a composite material made from Portland cement, sand, and reinforcing fibers. It is strong, durable, and moisture-resistant, making it an ideal choice for use in wet areas such as bathrooms and kitchens.

So, do you need to put cement board under tile floor? In most cases, the answer is yes. Cement board provides several important benefits for tile floors:

It creates a level surface for the tile to adhere to.
It provides a moisture barrier, which helps to protect the tile from water damage.
It helps to prevent the tile from cracking or breaking.

If you are installing tile in wet area, such as a bathroom or kitchen, it is imperative to use cement board as the substrate. In dry areas, such as a living room or hallway, you may be able to get away without using cement board, but it is still recommended.

If you are unsure whether or not you need to use cement board under tile floor, it is always best to consult with a professional tile installer.

How to Install Cement Board Under Tile Floor

Installing cement board under tile floor is relatively easy, but it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. These are the steps for installing cement board under tile floor:

Prepare the subfloor. The subfloor should be level, clean, and dry.
Lay out the cement board. Start by laying out the cement board on the subfloor. Make sure that the edges of the cement board are flush with the edges of the subfloor.
Screw the cement board to the subfloor Once the cement board is laid out, screw it to the subfloor using 1-1/4 inch screws. Space the screws 6 inches apart.
Tape the joints. Once the cement board is screwed down, tape the joints between the boards using alkali-resistant tape.
Thin-set mortar. Apply a thin layer of thin-set mortar to the cement board. Use a notched trowel to spread the mortar evenly.
Install the tile. Once the thin-set mortar is applied, you can begin installing the tile.

Following these steps, you can ensure that your tile floor will be installed correctly and will last for many years to come.