Building a tile patio is unarguably a daunting task if you’re doing it yourself and not hiring a patio contractor. Indeed, the installation process requires going through several steps until you can enjoy the outdoors. In this article, we are going to share important steps that will help make the process a lot easier. Let’s begin!

Choose The Best Materials

When it comes to building a tile patio, you should only go for the best materials. Although your area might have several options, but you should head to specialty stores that are pro-level suppliers. The tiles that you choose for the patio should be able to withstand extreme temperatures.

Regular tiles tend to crumble once the temperature reaches freezing due to water absorption. Therefore, the tiles that you opt for should be “vitreous”, “Frost-free” or “Impervious” etc. Furthermore, the tiles should also be backed by the manufacturer through a warranty.

Next, you are going to need a floor leveler. Often called a Self-leveling compound, it is offered in various types and you need to ensure that it is the right type for outdoor use. The Self-leveling compound is used to level the low spots in the patio area.

In addition to that, you need to install an elastic barrier called an isolation membrane that separates the slabs from the tiles. As a result, if the slab cracks, the tiles are prevented from getting damaged as well. Plus, it also keeps the tiles floating. There are a lot of other options such as sanded grout, silicone grout, and latex additives that will do a fine job. However, you need to find out what works best for you.

A Sound Old Slab

If your house already has a patio with cracks that are stable and do not expand with seasons, you can rebuild that area. You need to make sure that the water drains off and the gaps are not getting wider each year.

If you observe that concrete has sunk to the level of the surrounding soil, you will need to grade it. Moreover, if water happens to pool on the tiles, you will need to flatten the surface of the slab.

An existing slab can easily be prepared by using water and a stiff broom. This will help remove stubborn grime and dirt. Plus, you can also use a pressure washer of at least 4,000 psi to roughen and clean the slab’s surface. Once you are done, use caulk to fill the cracks and latex patching compound for holes.

A Perfect New Slab

To come up with a perfect new slab, it is suggested that you hire a professional for the job as it requires skills, time, and a lot of effort. If you are hiring a contractor, you should ensure that curing compounds are not being used. These compounds slow down the curing concrete process and increase the concrete strength. Not only that, but it also prevents tile-setting materials from adhering to the slab.

Upon pouring concrete, you should wait at least a month before you can lay down tiles. The reason is that concrete shrinks with time and gains strength. Additionally, concrete should stay dry at least three days before you begin working with tiles.

Expansion Joints

Irrespective of you setting tile over an old or new slab, you should include expansion joints. It is basically a flexible material like caulk that allows the tiles to expand and contract during extreme temperatures. Experts suggest that expansion joints should be installed every 16 ft.

If you ignore installing expansion joints, the tiles will crack as the seasons’ change. Therefore, in simple words, they prevent the tiles from succumbing to pressure.

Create A Layout

Creating a layout is the most important step when it comes to making a tile patio. You should shop for tiles first before you begin pouring concrete etc. Planning and creating a layout will give you an idea of the tools and equipment required for the job.

Planning a tile patio is just about using the right techniques. You have to consider the adjacent colors and rooms as well. Once you are done creating a layout, the chances of ending up with the exact patio you had envisioned will increase.

Final Word

Whether you are building a patio on your own or seeking a professional’s help, you should consider the important tips mentioned above to make your money worth it. Only choose the best quality materials and hire patio builders Long Island who know their way around patios.