Can I install Ceramic Tile on Masonite?

QUESTION

Can I install ceramic tile on a masonite wall in the kitchen near the stove?

ANSWER

ANSWER - It may be possible to adhere ceramic tile to masonite, but it is not recommended.  The masonite is not structurally sound and it would be susceptible to damage from heat.

You should first install a cement tile backer board, which is more resistant to heat and moisture.  The backer board has to be installed in a proper manner per the backer board manufacturers' directions so it is structurally sound.  Then you can adhere the ceramic tile with an appropriate cementitious thin-set mortar adhesive, which is also more heat resistant.

8 thoughts on “Can I install Ceramic Tile on Masonite?

  1. Brandon Cherry says:

    Ok I know that would be the correct way to do it by all means, and I’m not trying to argue with that point, but what if I went over the Masonite with kerdi. It’s just a small backsplash and cutting the Masonite out would mean having to put blocking in at the top and bottom all the length of the countertop to keep from having a weak joint and at each end bracing and there simply isn’t money on the job for the time or material

    • Donato Pompo says:

      As long as the Masonite isn’t exposed to moisture and that the underlying structure doesn’t have excessive deflection and that the tile adhesive is compatible to the bonding surface it is possible to do. Although it will not meet industry standards and you have to check with Kerdi data sheet to see if they approve of the application. If there isn’t enough money to install it correctly, then there certainly isn’t enough money to pay for a failure that will cost a lot more. Sometimes it is better not to do the tile installation if you can’t do a proper installation.

  2. Richard says:

    I would like to put 6×6 Mexican tiles on stair risers. The risers are made of plywood with 1/8 inch hardboard over that. Interior. Would that work?

    • Donato Pompo says:

      As long as there isn’t any deflection within the plywood risers, you can glue and screw the 1/4″ thick Hardiback backer board onto the plywood. There isn’t a 1/8″ thick Hardibacker board. You should use a silicone or polyurethane sealant that meets ASTM C920 to caulk around the perimeters of the riser after installing the 6×6 tiles as a movement joint.

  3. David Sigmon says:

    First, if I cut the formica or masonite surface and then coat with aquagard or the red stuff can I then apply my tile with thinset?

    Second, the new latex reinforced premixed joint compound are capable of resisting cracking in corner joints, will this work on your stair edges you were just commenting on? Thanks for your thoughts.

    • Donato Pompo says:

      Read the membrane datasheet to determine what substrates you can apply them over. You won’t find that you can apply it over formica or masonite. Those products should be removed and a proper substrate should be installed for the membrane and tile.

      Read the data sheet on the latex premixed joint compound for what and how it can be used. I would not expect it to be used for stair edges.

    • Donato Pompo says:

      no that would not be recommended. The cork is resilient to a degree and the Masonite is not an acceptable substrate for a tile installation. You could properly install a cementitious backer board to the floor and then properly adhere the tile to it with an appropriate adhesive for the tile and substrate.

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