How To Install Cement Tile On Concrete- Floor cement tiles are a popular choice for their durability, easy maintenance, and timeless appeal. If you have a concrete floor and are looking to upgrade it with cement tiles, let’s get started..
The original tiles on our front porch were painted red by the former owners. It seems like they were trying to mimic brick or just liked the red color. Whatever the goal was, I wasn’t too keen on the look. Having the original tiles on the porch would have been amazing! I did strip some of the paint off, but I didn’t know how to completely restore them. I have a hunch that this tile was on the original fireplace too. We eventually decided to replace the tiles, which I am still a bit sad about. Maybe I should have waited and researched more.
We desperately needed to replace the stairs that lead up to our porch. You can read about our stairway renovation here. We figured we might as well work on the porch while the stairs are worked on.
The workers were able to demo the tiles at the same time they ripped out the old stairs. Once the old tiles were gone, we were able to get to work on the new tile.
Preparing “How To Install Cement Tile On Concrete Floor”
Materials:
- Cement tiles- the exact tile we used is called Circulos from Villa Lagoon
- Tile adhesive- we use Versabond from Home Depot
- Grout– non-sanded grout will not scratch delicate tiles
- Tile spacers
- Backer board (if needed)
- Cement backer board screws (if using backer board)
- Sealer
- Water
Tools:
- Measuring tape
- Chalk lines
- Carpenter’s square
- Notched trowel
- Tile cutter or wet saw
- Rubber mallet
- Grout float
- Sponge
- Buckets for mixing
- Safety goggles and gloves
How the porch looks without tiles. Our stairs are gone too, which looks so crazy.
1.2. Repair Any Cracks: Fill in any cracks or holes with concrete patching compound and let it dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
1.3. Smooth the Surface: If the concrete is uneven, consider using a self-leveling compound to create a smooth and flat surface.
With a layer of fresh concrete poured, we did not worry about the level. The surface was ready for tile.
Clean the Surface: Start by ensuring the concrete floor is clean and free of debris. Sweep and vacuum thoroughly.
Plan Your Tile Layout
Find the Center: Measure the space and find its center. Mark this point with a chalk or pencil line.
Lay out the cement tiles
Dry Layout: Lay out a row of tiles from the centerline to one wall, using tile spacers to create even gaps. Adjust the layout to avoid narrow tiles at the edges.
Measure to cut tiles as needed.
Cut Tiles: Measure and cut tiles for the edges as needed, ensuring a balanced appearance.
Create a template for cutting the tiles.
Using a paper, trace the shape to cut from the tile.
You can set the paper template on the ground to ensure it is the correct fit. Make adjustments as needed.
Apply tile adhesive
Mix Adhesive: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mix the tile adhesive. Consistency should be similar to peanut butter.
Spread Adhesive: Use a notched trowel to apply adhesive to a small section of the floor.
Place Tiles: Press the tiles firmly into the adhesive, using spacers to maintain even gaps.
Follow the instructions on the adhesive package for length of drying time.
Seal the Tiles
Sealer Application: If you want to protect your tiles from stains, apply a sealer following the manufacturer’s guidelines. Allow it to dry completely.
Final Cleaning and Finishing
Final Clean-Up: After the grout has cured, give the tiles a thorough cleaning to remove any haze.
If you removed baseboards, reinstall them, or install new ones to cover the tile edges.
It has been about four to five years since installing this tile and we are really happy with it. No cracks. The white does get a bit dirty in muddy winter, but cleans up well. Thanks for reading! Let me know if you have any questions!
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Are there any disadvantages of cement tiles?
According to https://www.stonetiledepot.com/ the major disadvantages of cement tiles pertain to their use outdoors. Cement tiles are not recommended for outdoor use in climates where temperatures fall below freezing. However, some brands are manufactured to withstand weather; read the product specifications and reach out to manufacturers with any questions. Cement tile is also not recommended in areas with high traffic from vehicles and other heavy machinery. So it would not be practical to install cement tile flooring along driveways. Cement tile may also not be the best choice for swimming pools. Chemicals used to maintain pool water can corrode the cement tile.
How do you care for cement tiles?
If sealed properly, caring for cement tiles should be easy. Follow any instructions that come with the tiles and read labels on cleaning products before using. Re-sealing tiles every few years is also recommended.