How To Tile Over Patio Concrete?

Tiling over a concrete patio is a great way to upgrade the look of your outdoor space. It's a straightforward job that can be done by a professional contractor or even a beginner DIY-er. Before you start, it's important to consider the type of tile you want to use, as well as the climate and intended use of the space. Porcelain tiles are a popular choice for outdoor use due to their durability and low absorption rate, but they can get slippery, so they may not be the best option for rainy or snowy climates. Other options include slate tiles, travertine, granite tiles, quarry tiles, and concrete tiles. Once you've selected your tile, you'll need to prepare the concrete slab by filling any cracks and ensuring the surface is clean and level. Then, you can lay out your tiles, apply thinset, and start setting your tiles. After the thinset has dried, you can grout your tiles and apply a grout sealer to protect against moisture and wear. With the right preparation and materials, you can transform your concrete patio into a beautiful and functional outdoor space.

Preparing the concrete slab

Clean the Concrete Slab

Start by thoroughly cleaning the concrete surface to remove any dust, debris, grease, oil, or dirt. You can use a broom or a pressure washer to get rid of loose dirt and debris. Then, use a wet mop with plain water or a mixture of warm water and a degreasing cleaner to scrub the concrete. Finally, rinse the surface thoroughly to ensure that all residue is removed. A clean surface will help you identify small cracks that need repair and will also improve the bond between the concrete and the next layer.

Dry the Concrete Slab

Before proceeding to the next steps, it is essential to ensure that the concrete slab is completely dry. Blot it dry to remove any residual water and then let it air dry. Depending on the humidity in your area, you might need to wait overnight to allow excess moisture to evaporate. Concrete is porous and can absorb moisture, so it is crucial to get it as dry as possible before applying any sealants or adhesives.

Patch and Repair Cracks

Once the concrete slab is clean and dry, inspect it for any cracks, holes, or depressions. Small cracks or holes can be patched using a cement patching compound. Use a trowel to apply the compound and ensure that the patched areas are level with the surrounding concrete. For larger cracks or displaced concrete, it is recommended to consult a professional as it may indicate deeper problems. Repairs done by a professional will help avoid bigger issues in the future.

Level the Concrete Slab

It is crucial to ensure that the concrete slab is level before installing tiles. Uneven surfaces can lead to tile breakage and an uneven final result. If your slab has large holes or flaws, use a floor-levelling compound, which is a cement-based material that will fill in the depressions and create a flat surface. You can also use self-levelling concrete, which is a mixture of concrete and polymers that levels itself and dries to create a smooth, hard surface.

Seal the Concrete Slab

After ensuring that the concrete slab is clean, dry, sound, and level, apply a concrete sealer. Concrete is porous and can absorb moisture, so a sealer will act as a barrier between the concrete and the mortar, reducing moisture buildup. It will also increase the bond between the concrete and the mortar and decrease mould growth.

By following these steps, you will properly prepare the concrete slab for tile installation, ensuring a strong and long-lasting bond between the concrete and the tiles.

Choosing the right tiles

When choosing tiles for your patio, there are several factors to consider, from the climate you live in to the amount of sunlight your patio receives.

Climate

Your choice of tiles will depend on the weather conditions in your area. If you live in a rainy area, you should opt for tiles that can handle moisture and provide extra grip. If you experience freezing temperatures and snow, choose tiles that can withstand extreme cold without deteriorating, such as porcelain tiles. On the other hand, if you live in a hot climate, ensure your tiles can handle high temperatures without becoming slippery.

Light Exposure

The amount of sunlight your patio receives will impact the colour of your tiles. Brightly lit patios call for darker tiles, while shaded areas are better suited for lighter-coloured tiles.

Durability

Outdoor tiles need to be durable and able to withstand varying weather conditions, heavy foot traffic, and extreme temperatures. Porcelain tiles are a popular choice for patios due to their strength and water-resistant properties. Additionally, tiles with a textured surface provide better traction and reduce the risk of slipping.

Design

The design of your tiles should complement the overall style of your home and surrounding landscape. Consider the colour, texture, and pattern of the tiles to create a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing space.

Budget

Tiles vary significantly in price, from \$1 per square foot for basic ceramic tiles to \$50 per square foot for high-end natural stone tiles. Set a budget beforehand to help narrow down your options and prevent overspending.

Maintenance

Some tiles require more maintenance than others. Natural stone tiles, such as marble, may need to be sealed regularly to protect against stains and moisture damage. If you're looking for low-maintenance tiles, consider porcelain or concrete tiles, which are known for their durability and ease of care.

Installation

Depending on the complexity of your patio design and your DIY skills, you may need to factor in the cost of professional installation. This can add to the overall expense, so it's important to keep this in mind when creating your budget.

Safety

If you have children or plan to use your patio for entertainment, safety should be a priority. Choose tiles that provide excellent traction and reduce the risk of accidents, especially if your patio is frequently exposed to moisture.

Size

The size of your patio will also impact the cost of your project. Larger patios will require more tiles and may result in higher material and labour expenses.

Functionality

Consider how you plan to use your patio. If you intend to place heavy furniture or use it for dining and lounging, ensure your tiles are sturdy enough to withstand the weight and traffic.

Transition

If you want a seamless transition between your indoor and outdoor spaces, opt for tiles that can be used for both. Porcelain tiles are an excellent choice for creating a cohesive look and feel throughout your home and patio.

Applying thinset

Thinset is a type of mortar made of cement, sand, and water retention agents, designed to adhere tiles to walls. It is widely available at home improvement stores and comes in two varieties: dry mix, which requires water to be added, and pre-mixed buckets, which can be used immediately. Thinset is thinner than most mortars, making it easier to spread across large surfaces.

When applying thinset, it is important to use a notched trowel. The notched trowel leaves grooves or ridges in the thinset, allowing air to escape while the tile is laid and pressed into place. For larger tiles, thinset should also be applied to the back of the tile.

There are two main types of thinset: unmodified and modified. Unmodified thinset is the simplest form, consisting of sand, Portland cement, and water-retaining agents. Modified thinset has acrylic or liquid latex polymers added to create stronger bonds. In some cases, chemical-resistant agents may also be added.

When tiling over a concrete patio, it is important to first clean and prepare the concrete surface by using a pressure washer, a damp sponge, and an industrial cleaning brush to remove any dirt and grime. Once the surface is clean, you can begin applying the thinset.

• Use a notched trowel to spread the thinset onto the concrete surface.
• If using larger tiles, apply thinset to the back of the tile as well.
• Position the tile carefully, using spacers to keep the joints even.
• Remove the spacers and clean out any excess mortar with a utility knife or trowel.
• Mix and apply grout in the spaces between the tiles.
• Wash the tile to remove any excess grout for a clean, presentable finish.
• Allow the grout to cure for two weeks before applying a water-resistant grout seal.

Laying the tiles

Now that you've picked out your tile, it's time to start laying them down.

Step 1: Preparing the Concrete Slab

Check your concrete slab for any cracks or damage and fill them with a concrete repair compound. Sweep off any dirt and use a pressure washer to clean the slab. Let the concrete dry completely after washing. If there are any dips or rises, use a self-levelling compound or consider getting it professionally levelled.

Step 2: Layout and Measurement

Plan out how your tiles will be laid out. Take measurements to ensure you have enough tiles to cover the area. Start from the centre of your slab and plan your way out to the edges. Don't forget to account for the grout lines, which typically take up about 10% of the overall floor space.

Step 3: Applying Thinset

Apply a layer of thinset, a cement-based mortar that's perfect for securing tiles to concrete. Mix your thinset and work in small batches (about 2x2 feet at a time). Using a notched trowel, spread the thinset over a small area of the slab. The size of the notches should be appropriate for the size of the tiles (larger tiles require a trowel with larger notches).

Step 4: Laying the Tiles

Place your tiles into the thinset, pressing down firmly to make sure they stick. Use a tile spacer to keep the gaps between the tiles even. If you need to cut any tiles to fit at the edges, a tile saw will come in handy. Always wear safety gear when cutting tiles. Start in the centre and do the edges that need to be cut all at once if possible.

Step 5: Grouting

After the thinset has dried (usually within 24 hours), remove the tile spacers. Mix your grout according to the manufacturer’s instructions and use a rubber float to apply it into the gaps between the tiles. Be sure to press the grout firmly into the spaces to avoid any air pockets. Once all the gaps are filled, wipe off any excess grout from the surface of the tiles with a damp sponge before it dries.

Step 6: Sealing

Normally, this step would come after grouting for an indoor tile project. However, when tiling outside and using concrete tiles, you need to seal the tiles before and after the grout. After the grout has completely dried (another 24 hours), apply a grout sealer to protect it from moisture, dirt, and wear. For outdoor tiles, you might also want to apply an exterior tile sealer for extra protection against the weather.

Grouting

Step 1: Clean the Concrete Surface

Before grouting, it is important to clean the concrete surface thoroughly. This can be done using a pressure washer, a damp sponge, and an industrial cleaning brush to remove any dirt, grime, or residue. For heavily soiled areas, a specialist cleaning solution may be necessary.

Step 2: Prepare the Grout

The type of grout used is crucial. Choose a grout specifically rated for outdoor use, as it will be exposed to varying weather conditions. The two main types of grout suitable for outdoor applications are standard cement-based grout and premixed grout.

Cement-based grout comes in a dry powder form and must be mixed with water or a liquid additive before application. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the correct water-to-grout ratio. Additionally, ensure the grout is rated for no efflorescence to prevent the formation of a chalky white residue due to moisture loss.

Premixed grout, on the other hand, is made with polymers like acrylic and does not contain cement. It is ready to use straight out of the container, eliminating the need for mixing. Premixed grout tends to be more flexible and resistant to cracking, and it usually does not require sealing.

Step 3: Fill the Grout Joints

When filling the grout joints, work in small sections at a time, such as 3x3 feet or 4x4 feet. Using a grout float, scoop up some grout and spread it onto the tile surface, holding the float at a 45-degree angle to the tiles. Ensure the grout fills the joints completely by making multiple passes from different diagonal directions.

Step 4: Remove Excess Grout

After filling the joints, use the grout float to scrape away any excess grout. Hold the float almost vertical (90 degrees) to the tile and move it diagonally across the surface to avoid pulling grout out of the joints. Clean the float by scraping it against the edge of the bucket or container as you work.

Step 5: Clean the Tiles

Keep the tiles clean during the grouting process. Use a damp sponge to wipe down the tiles, removing any excess grout without removing grout from the joints. Rinse the sponge frequently to ensure effective cleaning.

Step 6: Repeat for Remaining Areas

Repeat the grouting process for the rest of the patio, working in small sections at a time to ensure even grout distribution.

Step 7: Buff Away Grout Haze

Once the grout has set, use a microfiber cloth to buff the tiles and remove any remaining grout haze from the tile surfaces. Be careful not to buff the grout joints.

Step 8: Seal the Grout (Optional)

Sealing the grout is only necessary for cement-based grout. Use an outdoor-rated grout sealer and apply it with a sponge, paintbrush, or other suitable applicator. Allow the grout sealer to cure completely according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Additional Tips:

• Work in dry weather conditions, ensuring the grout remains dry during the curing process.
• Protect the grouted area from rain or moisture for at least 72 hours to a week, depending on the manufacturer's instructions.
• If using cement-based grout, periodically seal it for weather and stain resistance.
• For expansion joints, fill them with caulk or a flexible outdoor sealant instead of grout to allow for tile expansion and contraction due to temperature changes.

By following these steps and allowing adequate curing time, your grouted outdoor tiles will be durable and aesthetically pleasing.

Frequently asked questions