October 23, 2009
What type of tile is right for an outdoor (on cement) application in the mid-west?
I am tiling a 6' X 8' cement balcony. It will be exposed to the elements (extreme hot and cold). Is there a special mud to consider as well? Thanks.
Frank k.
Expert
Answer by: MMH Expert_Lyle W, about 1 month ago
Due to the extreme cold and moisture that the tiles will experience, I recommend that you use a ceramic tile that is classified as impervious to water absorption. This type of tile should be rated at <.5% water absorption. You will need to check for an expansion joint in the balcony. Since it is only 6' X 8', you will not likely have one. If you do, you will not be able to lay tile over the expansion joint.You will need to properly level and prepare the surface. A thinset mortar will be needed to set the tiles. An epoxy grout will be needed in between the tiles. The epoxy grout will be imperious to water absorption in the same way that the ceramic tile is.Instead to laying down tile, you may consider using an interlocking tile on top of the cement balcony that would not be such a challenge to install.Join this conversation.
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