Planning to install tile flooring? The secret to a flawless finish starts before the first tile is even laid. Prepping your floor properly is essential for durability, longevity, and a smooth, professional look. Let’s break down the steps so you can start your project with confidence.
Clear the area
First things first—clear out the room. Remove all furniture, rugs, and appliances. You want nothing in the way. It’s also a good idea to check for squeaky spots or loose boards if you're working on a wood subfloor. Trust me, a clear, stable space makes the whole process easier.
Inspect and clean the floor
Next, give your floor a close inspection. Are there cracks, dips, or uneven spots? Fix those now. Uneven surfaces can lead to tiles cracking later on. Sweep up any dust, dirt, or debris, then follow up with a mop. A clean, dry surface is key to getting that adhesive to stick properly.
Fix uneven surfaces
Uneven floors are a tile’s worst enemy. Use a self-leveling compound for concrete floors or sand down high spots on wood subfloors. If you’re dealing with major issues, call a pro. It’s worth it. Flat floors = long-lasting tile flooring.
Lay down an underlayment
Here’s a pro tip: underlayment is your best friend. For wood subfloors, a cement backer board adds stability and prevents moisture from creeping in. If you’re working with concrete, a crack isolation membrane can stop cracks from ruining your tiles. Take your time here—it’s the foundation of your tile flooring installation project.
Test for moisture
Moisture is a silent killer for tile floors. Concrete, especially, can hold moisture that will wreck your adhesive. Tape a piece of plastic to the floor and check for condensation after 24 hours. Got moisture? You might need a vapor barrier.
Plan your layout
Before you start tiling, dry-fit a few tiles to plan your layout. Mark a starting point with chalk lines. This will help you avoid awkward cuts or uneven grout lines down the road.
Your experts on tile floors in Norman, OK
With a clean, flat, and dry surface, you can start installing tile flooring. Take it one step at a time, and don’t rush. Prep work might not be glamorous, but it’s the foundation of a stunning tile floor. Call the experts at Urban Flooring LLC to ensure your floor is installed correctly. We have years of experience installing tile floors and more. Our showroom in Norman, OK, serves Norman, Moore, Edmond, and Yukon, OK. Call today!
