Ceramic tile adds beauty and value to any home. If you are installing ceramic tile on your own, you will also need underlayment materials. Here is what you should know about ceramic tile underlayment.
What is Underlayment?
Underlayment for ceramic tile is a thin sheet of material that is placed between the subflooring and tile. Underlayment is used in several residential applications, such as carpeting, tile, and roofing.
Is Underlayment Necessary?
Underlayment may seem like an unnecessary expense, but the addition of
best ceramic tile underlayment offers you many benefits. The material gives the floor some cushion so it is comfortable for walking. It also helps to reduce echoing in the room, and it can extend the lifetime of your ceramic tile by reducing stress on the flooring.
What Types of Underlayment for Ceramic Tile are Available?
You have several options for underlayment of a ceramic tile floor. You can use normal plywood if you are on a budget. A layer of mortar also works as underlayment. Cement board and fiber cement board are two more options. A flooring specialist can help you find the right type of underlayment for your ceramic tile project.
How to Install Underlayment for Ceramic Tile Floors
You install the underlayment before you start laying tile on your floor. The underlayment should be set with an adhesive to avoid rippling and buckling of the material that will give you an unstable and uneven tile floor. If the underlayment is not installed properly, your tiles may crack over time.