How to Lay Ceramic Floor Tiles Over Floorboards

Laying ceramic floor tiles over floorboards is an excellent way to transform an outdated or uneven floor into a sleek, durable surface. For older homes with exposed floorboards, adding ceramic tiles offers an affordable, lasting update that brings a fresh look without the hassle of extensive renovations. Though some people worry about the complexity, tiling over floorboards can be straightforward if you follow the proper preparation steps.

With years of experience in the industry, we’ve seen countless Perth homeowners successfully upgrade their floors by simply laying floor tiles over floorboards. The key? Using the right materials and techniques to ensure stability, durability, and longevity. A few critical steps, such as reinforcing the floorboards and applying the correct underlayment, make all the difference in achieving a professional finish that lasts.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of tiling over floorboards, from prepping your floorboards to grouting and sealing. So, whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or new to tiling, this step-by-step approach will ensure you get the best results while avoiding common pitfalls.

Step 1: Check for loose floorboards

The first and foremost thing to do before you start is to check for loose floorboards. Wooden floorboards are notorious for developing squeaks and creaks over time. You’ll need to fix all loose floorboards before you even think of laying tiles.

To find loose floorboards, clear out all furniture from your room and walk all around the floor. Mark loose floorboards with a pencil and use additional screws to fix them in place. Make sure to use short countersunk screws to avoid any bumps or unevenness on the surface. When you’re done fixing loose floorboards, sweep and clean the floor.

Step 2: Prepare your floorboard surface for tiling

To prepare your floorboard surface for tiling, you’ll need to cover the surface with a smooth and rigid backing board. Typically, 12mm plywood or 6mm tile backer boards are ideal for creating a rigid and smooth floorboard surface.

Do note that adding a plywood backing board on your floorboard will raise the height of your floors significantly. That’s why thin backer boards are a more popular choice for preparing floorboard surfaces.

To cover your floorboard, start by measuring your plywood or backer board and cutting it into shape using a jigsaw cutting tool. Drill small holes into your backer board or plywood and use a silicone gun with instant grab adhesive to attach it to your floorboards. Make sure to start from one corner of your room and work your way out.

Step 3: Prime the surface

After you’re done preparing your floorboard surface, you will need to prime the surface for laying tiles. If you’re working with plywood, you can use an SBR primer or an acrylic primer on the surface. Alternatively, if you’re working with a backer-board, stick to using an SBR primer. Make sure not to use special PVA primers on either type of backing board, as they will damage the surface. You will find the primer for your needs in our collection of tile adhesives.

Priming your backing board will create a grippy surface that is perfect for laying tiles on. When you’re done priming, you can simply use tile adhesive to lay ceramic tiles on your wooden floor surface.

Step 4: Choose your ceramic floor tiles

Once you’ve prepared and primed your floorboard surface, you can lay floor tiles on them. Now you’re ready to go out and choose ceramic tiles of your liking.

For premium-quality ceramic tiles in Perth, look no further than us here at Ross’s Discount Home Centre. We’re Perth’s largest stockist of ceramic floor tiles, and our floor tiles are available in a range of textured and non-textured finish options and in a variety of styles for you to choose from. Regardless of what style or look you’re trying to create, you’re sure to find a suitable ceramic floor tile with us.

Next Steps: Read our article, How To Lay Floor Tiles in 5 Easy Steps to discover the next steps in the floor tile laying process.

Conclusion

If you’re wondering how to lay ceramic floor tiles over floorboards, rest assured it’s a manageable project with the right approach. By securing loose boards, installing a backing board, and priming the surface, you create a solid foundation for a durable, stylish tile floor. These steps ensure a smooth installation and lasting result, transforming outdated floors into a modern feature in your home.

For quality tiles and materials to complete this project, look no further than Ross’s Discount Home Centre. Our range of ceramic tiles and tile adhesives provides plenty of options to suit any taste and budget. Visit our store in Guildford or explore our online selection to find everything you need to bring your vision to life.