Preparing Concrete Shower Floor Tile

Watch as homeowners learn to pour a shower base and prep the floor for tiling.

Preparing concrete shower floor tile.

Test by sprinkling water on various areas of the subfloor. Cut the tiles and dry fit them again to ensure a snug fit. It is very effective in removing dirt oil and grease on concrete surfaces. This how to video is a quick excerpt from a diy show.

First you need to prepare the tsp solution according to the package instructions. Prepare the tile for mortar mortar is essential for a firm and solid foundation for your shower tile. Use the level to check the entire concrete. To prepare your concrete subfloor make sure that it can accept water penetration.

Follow along to learn how to fabricate a custom shower base in your bathroom. As with a wooden subfloor a concrete subfloor must be level for successful tile installation. A poor mortar job can result in loose tile that pops out. Cut the membrane so it s 1 1 2 times the width of your tiles.

If you would like a complete step by step of the entire process with all the little idiosyncrasies and details i now have manuals describing the complete process for you from bare wall studs all the way up to a completely waterproof shower substrate for your tile. With the cracks patched apply a latex modified crack resistant thin set. Since the shower is a potentially hazardous area it is recommended to use only ceramic glazed or tiles specifically designed for high moisture areas. Let the primer dry and then apply the membrane photos 3 and 4.

Right before you re ready wipe the concrete shower pan with a damp sponge to remove any remaining dust which could prevent the thinset from adhering. Then prime the concrete see photo 2 with the recommended solution consult the membrane manufacturer s literature. Smooth thinset on the concrete to create a 1 8 inch thick layer. The following five part series gives a basic overview of building a shower floor for tile.

Make sure to spend the necessary amount of time on properly mortaring so you have a long lasting shower where the tile doesn t chip or break over time. Before you lay any sort of tile whether it is stone ceramic or peel and stick vinyl you must prepare your concrete floor to ensure that the tiles will go down properly and stay where they re. Pour adequate amounts of the solution on the floor then scrub using a brush and let it dry. Before tiling a shower be sure the drain and sub floor are properly seal.