tile on floorboards

The Dunlop Adhesives Way To Beautiful Tiled Wooden Floors

While a lot of myths exist about laying floor tiles onto tongue and groove floorboards, the truth is that if you follow a few simple rules, it’s no more difficult than tiling onto any other background. Below is a list of recommended Dunlop Adhesives products, tips and advice on how to make this tiling project a great success.

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    • CF-24 Flexible Tile Adhesive

      Flexible standard setting tile adhesive suitable for fixing porcelain, ceramic and mosaic wall and floor tiles both internally and externally.    

      Grout after 24 hours
      Flexible
      For ceramic, porcelain and non-moisture sensitive natural stone tiles
      Interior and Exterior
      Suitable with underfloor heating
      Extended open time
      Find out more Where to Buy

    • CF-03 Flexible Fast Set Tile Adhesive

      Fast setting, flexible tile adhesive suitable for fixing porcelain, ceramic and mosaic wall and floor tiles both internally and externally.

      Grout after 3 hours
      Flexible
      For ceramic, porcelain and natural stone tiles
      Interior and Exterior
      Suitable with underfloor heating
      Find out more Where to Buy

    • Multi-Purpose Primer

      For preparing porous surfaces prior to tiling or applying levelling compounds.

      Controls surface porosity
      Increases open time of cement based tile adhesives
      Enhances the wet edge of levelling compounds and prevents pinholes
      Fast drying
      Find out more Where to Buy

    • GX-500 Flexible Grout

      A flexible wall and floor grout available in eight colours with matching silicones. For use with ceramic, porcelain, natural stone and mosaic tiles.

      For porcelain, natural stone and ceramic tiles
      Up to 15mm joints
      8 colours with matching silicones
      Reduced efflorescence
      Suitable for external use and wet areas
      Suitable for underfloor heating
      24 hour setting time
      Find out more Where to Buy

    • Procover Uncoupling Mat

      Uncoupling mat for tiling onto problematic floors which are at risk from stresses and lateral movement.

      For use on timber floors and floors with underfloor heating
      Suitable for use on new cement & sand screeds
      Prevents tiles from cracking and debonding
      Pre-marked gridlines for easy cutting
      No tape required
      1mm mat depth
      Find out more Where to Buy

    tile on t&g floorboards FAQs

    Explore our Project FAQs to find quick answers to common questions about tiling on tongue and groove floorboards, including product selection, application guidelines, and best practices for achieving optimal results.

    Q: Can I tile directly onto tongue and groove floorboards?

    Whilst it is possible to install tiles directly onto tongue and groove boards, it’s not recommended due to the natural movement and flexibility of wood floors. For best results and to prevent cracking or delamination of the tiles, we recommend the use of Dunlop ProCover Uncoupling Mat between the boards and the tiles to absorb lateral movement, or installing tilebacker boards.

    T&G floorboards naturally expand, contract and move with changes in temperature and humidity. The uncoupling mat acts as a buffer layer, absorbing this lateral movement and preventing it from being transmitted to the tiles.

    Q: How do I prepare tongue and groove floorboards for tiling?

    1. Ensure all boards are secure and free from movement and deflection
    2. Replace any damaged boards
    3. Sand down any high spots
    4. Fill any gaps
    5. Clean thoroughly to remove all debris, dust, and contaminants
    6. Prime with Dunlop Multi-Purpose Primer (undiluted)
    7. Apply a second coat at 90° to the first and allow to dry completely

    Q: What Dunlop products do I need for tiling over T&G floorboards?

    The complete system includes

    • Dunlop Multi-Purpose Primer
    • Dunlop ProCover Uncoupling Mat
    • Dunlop CF-03 Flexible Fast Set Tile Adhesive or Dunlop CF-24 Flexible Tile Adhesive (for both mat and tile fixing)
    • Dunlop GX-500 Flexible Grout
    • Dunlop Flexible Additive (optional, for improved performance)

    Q: What adhesive should I use for fixing tiles to the uncoupling mat?

    We recommend Dunlop CF-03 Flexible Fast Set Tile Adhesive or Dunlop CF-24 Flexible Tile Adhesive. These flexible adhesives can accommodate the slight movements that may occur and provide excellent bond strength.

    Q: What size tile spacers should I use?

    Always use spacers to ensure an even gap of at least 3mm between tiles. This minimum gap is essential to allow for any minor movement in the floor.

    Q: What grout should I use?

    Use Dunlop GX-500 Flexible Grout. For improved performance in areas subject to increased movement, consider incorporating Dunlop Flexible Additive (pre-diluted 1:2 by volume with water).

    Q: What if my floorboards are uneven?

    If your floorboards are uneven, consider using Dunlop LX-360 Fibre Leveller before installing the uncoupling mat. This fibre-reinforced levelling compound can help create a flat, stable surface.

    Q: How do I finish the edges of the tiled area?

    For a professional finish, seal the perimeter expansion joints with Dunlop FX-90 Silicone Sealant. This allows for expansion and creates a clean edge where the tiled area meets walls or other flooring.

    Q: Can I tile onto T&G floorboards in a bathroom?

    Yes, but extra care must be taken to protect the floorboards from moisture. Consider using the Dunlop Shower Waterproofing Kit over the uncoupling mat in wet areas to provide additional protection against water damage.

    Need more advice?
    For further guidance on tiling on T&G or any other tiling project, please contact the Dunlop Technical Helpline on 01782 591120.

    how to tile tongue and groove floorboards image

    How To Guide

    Download this handy how-to guide for tiling on tongue and groove floorboards, offering a simple step-by-step overview covering:

    • Base preparation
    • Underlay installation
    • Fixing tiles
    • Finishing the tiles

    Top tip

    “Remember, the Dunlop ProCover Uncoupling Mat is your best friend on this job. It’s only 1mm thick, so it won’t significantly raise your floor height, but it makes all the difference in absorbing lateral movement that could otherwise crack your tiles.”

     

    David Rowley – Dunlop Adhesives Training Manager

    Dunlop and the Flying D device are trademarks of Sumitomo Rubber Group and are used under license by Building Adhesives Ltd.

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