QUESTION

Can you install ceramic tile over wood?

ANSWER

ANSWER - It is never recommended to install directly to any type of wood, but it is done and there are products available for installing to exterior grade plywood.

Of course you never install over plywood on an exterior application or in any type of a wet area.

The main problem is this: if wood gets wet it expands and warps, which will cause tile failure. Concrete is the best surface with which to bond ceramic tile or stone. If you can't do the best mortar bed method then the next best thing to do is install over a cement backer board. If all else fails, then bond to wood, but make sure you do it properly.

If you do install over wood make sure the floor has no more of a deflection than L/360 for ceramic tile. It is recommended to have two layers of 5/8" plywood on joists spaced at 16" on center. You can use a modified epoxy for adhering the tile to the wood or a Latex or Polymer Modified thin-set that is recommended for bonding to wood. Go to Installation Products. There are some very flexible latex modified thin-sets that are good for bonding to wood.