Your first task in laying tile outdoors to build a patio will be to provide a solid base.
How to install ceramic tile on concrete outside.
Installing over wood.
For about 6 000 years builders have been using ceramic tile outdoors on buildings walkways even streets.
Thanks to modern materials tile is now a durable and long lasting option for exterior concrete patios even in cold climates.
If using a primer you need to be very careful to remove this from the surface and sides of the tile immediately.
There are two options for helping the tile stick.
Generally ceramic porcelain or stone tile can be installed over suitable substrates in exterior locations including mortar beds over concrete slabs and directly onto concrete slabs.
Installing ceramic tiles over concrete can help to create a more inviting indoor or outdoor living space.
Here s what you need to know.
Suitable for outdoor use.
Check falls throughout installation and adjust by tapping the tiles with a rubber mallet.
Not only does tile offer a range.
Ordinary concrete is fine for your average backyard patio but to create a rich inviting outdoor patio space installing tile is the best way to go.
There is a huge selection of tile styles and colors for you to choose from and the greatest benefit of using tiles is that they can be laid directly on top of preexisting concrete.
To install ceramic tile over wood the wood surface must be structurally sound enough to support the weight of the tile.
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.
Installing tile directly on concrete.
Firstly and very importantly porcelain tiles have different grades and you will need to check that your chosen tiles are grade 5 i e.
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.
When thinking about using porcelain tiles outdoors there are a number of important considerations to take into account.
Mix an admix into your sand and cement or apply a primer to the underside of the tiles.
Prepare concrete slabs.
These substrates must be structurally sound meet deflection requirements and meet on plane requirements.
Using an acid based cleaner or deep cleaner of your choice clean the concrete and allow it to dry thoroughly.
The following article deals with preparing an existing concrete base but it also links to a resource devoted to pouring a new concrete slab.