I want to put tile over my concrete patio. The patio is about 21′ x 25′. There are a couple of cracks, but nothing too serious. I live in San Diego, so frost is not an issue. I plan to put a membrane between the concrete and tile. Does anyone have any recommendations for a brand name?
This also seems like a large area to me. Will I need to have some sort of expansion joint?
Any other help would be appreciated.
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Replies
joe
Schluter probably has something for your application.
How is the plane of the concrete either side of the cracks? Do the cracks have a pattern-a cross or radiating out of one or more spots?
You might pull some info from the Tile Council of America's handbook:
http://www.getbookee.org/tile-council-of-america-handbook/
and don't forget the JohnBridge forum- http://www.johnbridge.com/
Crack Isolation
I've used Noble Seal TS and CIS. The TS is a waterproofing membrane set in thinset, but it also works for crack isolation. The
CIS is specifically for crack isolation. Dal tile sells the TS under their own brand, but it is the same product. There are trowel on crack isolation systems but I have no experience with these. I've used a membrane just over the cracks (not over the whole floor) is interior applications where cracking was not too extensive. You need to be sure there are no roots under the slab displacing it. Especialy beware of Ficus.
Deal with a tile supply, not a home center.
I'm in SD north county.
Tile question
The product you are most likely looking for is Schluter Ditra, but have to agree with the guys concerning the source of the cracks, if its a tree root issue, stop and reconsider, no matter what you do to the concrete the tile you lay will crack. But if the cracks are minor and relatively level side to side, you maybe able to proceed with a layer of reinforced mat (Ditra) or webbing like material. Take some time to look at additives like Mapai's Keralastic, this will give a little bit of flex in the mortar itself, ideal for exterior applications like yours. A slab this size will definately require expansion joints, Schluter has all the info on this on their website, their expansion joints are a lil bit pricey, do an excellent job but can also be done with Siliconized Grout, colour matched to your grout, just do this step before you grout. On a final note find the highest point on the slab and tile out from there, its much easier to build tiles up with mud, than to try and plane down tile or cement, and finally finish off the perimeter of the slab with some metal tile edge, not the plastic ones, they bend when stepped on and crack your grout. Hope this helps, have fun with this project!
Jon
Exterior tile over concrete
Thanks all for your replies.
As near as I can tell, the slab is at least 15 years old. The cracks weren't caused by tree roots - there isn't a tree near these. I suspect the lack of control joints during the initial pour is the problem.
I did stop by a local tile shop and they recommended Hydro Ban. Probably because that's what they sell. Any opinions on this stuff? Sure looks easy to install!