porcelain tile on slab

10 years ago

We're buying a house in NJ on a slab foundation. We're looking to install new flooring in the living room, dining room, sun room, and laundry room. Due to fear of mold growth underneath the vapor barrier, we're shying away from vinyl and laminate wood. We're looking to get porcelain tile (either wood-like or standard) with an area rug in the living room. I'm researching all this now. As i see it, the grout should let any slab moisture dissipate. I'm hoping to get as thin a grout as possible like maybe 1/16". Here's my questions so far. Does this all sound like a feasible plan? Can the tile go directly on the slab?... or what if any underlayment would be needed?

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Comments (3)

StoneTech
10 years ago
Tile "can" go directly on slab, assuming no cracks, a level floor and an unsealed slab. "Broom Finished" is the most desirable of slabs. Sprinkle a couple of tablespoons of water in various areas. It should absorb within a few minutes. If not, the slab should be "scarified" for a decent bond.

Also, grout will NOT let moisture dissipate. That isn't it's job....
JerseyShore
Original Author
10 years ago
I thought grout was porous but ok so... moisture in the ground rises through the slab and if it can't permeate through the grout it will condensate and collect on the bottom of the tiles or the cement holding them. Either way it sounds like a house full of mold. So, how do i avoid this?
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StoneTech
10 years ago
Unless the concrete has some sort of "sealer" on it, any moisture will simply gravitate into the concrete and evaporate.

Grout IS porous and sealing it only helps to make stains easier to clean.

If you have moisture (hydrostatic pressure) coming up thru the slab....you have bigger issues here. You may need to install a french drain or something to obviate the problem.

Tape down a 2'x2' sheet of plastic or saren wrap on the slab for at least a day. Does moisture "condensate" on the underside? If so, there is an issue with vapor/moisture coming up thru the slab. If so, those issues must be resolved before attempting a tile job......