Installing Patio Tile Over Concrete

Often people want to cover a concrete patio or porch with tile and need to know how that differs from indoor tile installation.

Installing patio tile over concrete.

While you can install tile directly on concrete problems erupt when the concrete cracks or shifts. Step 1 preparing the concrete before you begin to lay the tile over your concrete slab make sure the concrete is properly prepared. Cracks in concrete immediately become cracks in the tile. If you were to remove a cracked tile from concrete undoubtedly you would see the same crack pattern below.

All of the movement in concrete is transferred to the tile. Cracks normally widen and narrow slightly with the seasons but if they re getting wider year by year don t tile over them. How to install tile over an existing concrete patio laying tile outside is just like laying tile inside. For starters moisture and cracking are bigger concerns outside so you need to apply a waterproofing and crack isolating membrane to the slab before you begin.

Installing ceramic tiles over concrete can help to create a more inviting indoor or outdoor living space. Let the glue dry for a few hours before you tamp the field pavers and sweep sand across the patio to fill the joints. Here s the step by step process to transform that ordinary concrete patio into something extraordinary. Tsp is a high strength cleaner which is useful for removing dirt grease and oil from your existing surface.

Spread a light layer of paver sand over the entire area. Using an acid based cleaner or deep cleaner of your choice clean the concrete and allow it to dry thoroughly. Mix up a bucket of tsp tri sodium phosphate solution. You start by preparing the area laying out the tile exactly as it will look then setting it grouting and finishing.

Lay the field pavers over concrete as you would on any paver patio. Add another thin layer of sand and use the push broom to spread it across the patio. Use a push broom to sweep the sand into the gaps between the pavers and run the plate compactor across the patio surface. This way you can ensure you have enough tiles to cover your entire patio and can make any necessary cuts before applying your mortar.

Run the plate compactor over the area one last time. It is best practice to do a dry last first before installing your tile. Glue down the last border patio blocks.