Tile On Concrete Slab With Cracks

Cracks in a concrete slab are a problem that i run into frequently.

Tile on concrete slab with cracks.

Let the primer dry and then apply the membrane photos 3 and 4. In some cases the crack may instead occur in the grout joint. Cracks in concrete floors or slabs occur in poured concrete slabs may be found both in basement and in slab on grade or patio home construction and have a variety of causes and cures that we discuss here as we explain how to repair cracked concrete floors and as we describe slab on grade construction or patio home construction cracks and as we review the diagnosis of cracks in ceramic tile over concrete slab floors. Concrete can support a lot of weight in compression but is weak in tension.

But larger cracks especially those that are higher on one side than the other may telegraph through the tile and cause it to crack. In addition to crack suppression the prodeso membrane is designed to hold heating cable in place making the installation of in. With the cracks patched apply a latex modified crack resistant thin set. In some cases i ve seen cracks that are almost 1 4 in.

Dips bulges and cracks occur frequently as concrete cures and ages. Sweep the concrete floor with a broom to remove any visible debris. If tile were set on. Instead of a crack transferring from the concrete to the tile the crack isolation membrane absorbs the crack energy and spreads it over a large area preventing telegraphing through the tile.

If you are placing tile on the slab it s important the control joint line up with a control joint in the tile easier said than done. Although it s unsightly it s very easy to fix and it s a much better alternative to a crack in the tile. How to lay tile over cracked concrete cleaning the concrete. If you watch them tile a commercial center or office building which are always concrete floors you never see them use crack prevention.

The drying would cause shrinkage or compaction of the dirt possibly enough to create a void under the slab followed by the slab cracking and settling over the area of the void. Applying tile in these situations is really quite simple. To find out if a concrete slab is clean pour a little water on it in spots. Using a scraper and a wire.

Small cracks caused by shrinkage usually do not present a problem. Then prime the concrete see photo 2 with the recommended solution consult the membrane manufacturer s literature. Before you install any flooring material over a concrete slab it is important to inspect the slab for defects. Cut the membrane so it s 1 1 2 times the width of your tiles.

Tom meehan a tile installer and owner of cape cod tileworks in harwich massachusetts replies. Cracks are nothing out of the ordinary. For small narrow cracks that do not show signs of moisture use concrete filler which can be.