Ask the Expert

ANSWER:

There are two enemies when it comes to ceramic tile installations: (1) sub-floor movement and (2) a weak mortar or grout mix.

Weak sub-floors should be stiffened with a cement type board such as Durock or Hardie backer, ½” for floors or ¼” for counter tops. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for wet setting in cement, fastening schedule and acceptable joist spacing.

Note the instructions on the grout container for proper mix ratios, and if latex additives are needed. In addition, epoxy grout usually has special precautions and time limits.
Often, simple grout flaking can be the result of dirty tile edges and sides.

Expert's Bio

Robert D. Middleton Jr. has enjoyed over 30 years in the residential and commercial flooring trades. He is proficient and familiar with hardwood installations, both exotic and domestic, border and medallion work, board replacements and repairs, ceramic tiles (mortar and epoxy grout mixes), laminates, carpets, VCT (vinyl composition tiles) and 6’ commercial vinyl floors. Robert is the Technical & Installation Manager at LUMBER LIQUIDATORS, assisting customers, corporate and outside store staff with installation recommendations, specifications and product warranty details via phones and internet. Look for Robert as the In-House Installer at LUMBER LIQUIDATOR’S Flooring 101 site.