I need to install ceramic tile over an old T&G floor. The floor is 1X4 pine over a 1X6 pine T&G subfloor. The joists are 3X8’s and there is no deflection in the floor. Can I put the durock right over the T&G floor or should I use a subfloor? If a subfloor is needed, what is the best material (for a kitchen and two baths)?
Bill
Replies
If the T&G floor is flat enough for you, then use it as the base for the backer. If not, have fun correcting the flatness problem, then have at it from there.
Politics is the antithesis of problem solving.
I almost always tear out the flooring and replace it with 3/4" CDX plywood. That way I can screw it directly to the joists, sandwiching the subfloor, and sleepers if there are any, between the plywood and joists. Also keeps from raising the floor up too high.
If there are sleepers, you could probably remove those as well, and build up with plywood/backerboard whatever it takes to get the tile flush with whatever floor meets it.
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I remember asking this question in the past on this site and on a tile site. the consensus was to remove the top floor layer and install 5/8" to 3/4" plywood then the hardi board. Taking up the floor takes more time, but seems to be a lot easier and MUCH more solid. Screwing/nailing the hardi board down on 4/8 plywood is a lot easier too.
Buy a collated screw gun like the senco. they run around $100 and the screw are $15-$25 per bucket.
Yup.Putting down Ditra or some other transition material over a plank floor is a no-no. So is putting cement board over a plank floor.Mongo