Can tile be installed over plywood?

The answer to this question is a resounding yes, although there are also alternatives.

Some professional installers still subscribe to a proven application of mud or mortar combined with roofing felt and mesh. This is a time-tested underlayment that is generally preferred by older professionals, but it requires a lot of skill and time.

And of course, the tiles can be installed over concrete. When installing over concrete, there are also preparation requirements that need to be investigated.

Cement board or plywood are two of the most common options today, even for professionals. It saves a lot of time and makes laying tiles easier.

So what is the difference between plywood and backer board?

Backerboard comes in sheets like drywall and is created when cement is combined with a fibrous material or mesh. This product is designed for use in wet areas and may be a better choice for a bathroom or kitchen. That being said, many builders still use plywood.

If you decide to use a backer board, do yourself a favor and buy screws designed for use with this product. They will be much easier to drive and will sit flush with the surface, which is important when installing tile over it.

Plywood is good for many applications. Plywood, as the backer board, will present a smooth, stable surface on which to install the tiles. One such application is over resilient flooring that will stay in place.

Before you remove an old resilient floor, it’s important to make sure it doesn’t contain asbestos. This type of soil must be removed by a professional to safeguard your health. This can be an expensive process.

Another option is to simply apply a plywood underlayment over the floor and leave it in place. Plywood is required in this application to provide a stable surface and eliminate the spring factor of the underlying floor.

One of the biggest fallacies in a DIY tile installation is not having a stable and smooth (i.e. flat) subfloor. Make sure the surface is smooth with no depressions or bumps. This is what creates cracked tiles. Tiles that are secure on a flat surface are strong surfaces. When there are gaps underneath it can be very unforgiving and crack.

Whether you use plywood or backerboard, do your homework, get the right tools (knee pads recommended), and keep in mind that it will take longer than if done by a professional. The reward is considerable savings and a beautiful floor that will last for many years, add value to your home, and remain fashionable.