In older properties floors that are often constructed of timber joists and floor boards create a similar challenge.

For many years it has been considered that such floors cannot be tiled. In conjunction with the Wood Panel Industries Federation, The Tile Association have produced a technical document explaining that the majority of timber floors can be tiled and outlining the products and methods to use. In addition many adhesive manufacturers produce specific groups of products for this particular application.

In general the floor needs to be stable with normal humidity levels and needs to be physically capable of bearing the extra weight. The floor is then overlaid with a proprietary intermediate substrate to separate the tiles from the floor, eliminating cracking and crazing caused by movement and differential rates of expansion and contraction due to temperature changes. Specific types of product used for the overlay are relevant to different situations and are outlined in depth in the publication.

The overlay is then followed by the application of a sealant where necessary and adhesives and grout that is designed to be suitable for this purpose.

A beautiful tiled bathroom floor adds value to a home and is far easier to care for and hygienic than other products. It will also last a lifetime. Your nearest TTA tile supplier or fixer will be able to advise on specific projects. The Tile Association just want readers to be aware that the answer to the question “Can a suspended wooden floor be tiled?” is almost always “yes”.

You can purchase the publication “Tiling to Timber Sheets and Board, Timber Substrates and Alternative Products” via the TTA website www.tiles.org.uk or by phone on 020 8663 0946 where you will also find your nearest TTA member.

For further information contact a TTA member tile supplier or look on TTA website at www.tiles.org.uk .

Printer friendly version

Email this article to a friend

Bookmark this

---