When it comes to laying bathroom floor tiles, what goes beneath them is just as important as the tiles themselves. The right underlayment provides a solid foundation that ensures your tiles remain durable, level, and free from issues like cracking or moisture damage. Here's what you need to put under bathroom floor tiles for a successful installation, Australian style.
Cement Backer Board
Cement backer board is a popular choice for bathroom floor tile installations. It's moisture-resistant, which is crucial in a bathroom environment, and provides a sturdy surface for tiles. Make sure to adhere the backer board to the subfloor using appropriate screws or mortar.
Plywood Subfloor
For a strong base, a plywood subfloor is often used. It's essential that the plywood is properly installed, ensuring it's level, well-secured, and free from any imperfections that could transfer to the tiles.
Uncoupling Membrane
An uncoupling membrane is a modern option that helps prevent cracks in your tiles due to movement in the subfloor. It also provides a waterproofing layer, protecting the subfloor from moisture.
Waterproof Membrane
Especially in bathrooms, a waterproof membrane is crucial. It's applied to the subfloor before tiling to prevent water from seeping through and causing damage. This is particularly important in wet areas like showers or bathtubs.
Underlayment Sheets
Underlayment sheets can be made of materials like plywood or particleboard. They create a flat, smooth surface for the tiles and help distribute the weight evenly.
Proper Screeding
Screeding involves creating a level surface using a cement mixture. This is essential if your subfloor is uneven. Once screeded, tiles can be laid directly on top.
Moisture Barrier
In addition to waterproofing, consider using a moisture barrier to prevent any potential moisture from rising from below the subfloor.
Adhesive
Lastly, a high-quality tile adhesive is used to bond the tiles to the underlayment. Make sure to choose an adhesive that's suitable for your chosen tiles and underlayment material.
A successful bathroom floor tile installation begins with a solid foundation. By choosing the right underlayment and taking the time to prepare it properly, you'll ensure that your tiles not only look great but also stand the test of time in your Australian bathroom.