Can I lay ceramic tile on a wood floor w/24" oc joists and 3/4" OSB, 3/8" plywood and 1/4" Hardi backer?

Question

Can I lay ceramic tile on a wood floor w/24" oc joists and 3/4" OSB, 3/8" plywood and 1/4" Hardi backer?

Answer 1

if you use versa bond flex mortar white under your hardibacker and use same when installing your tile, this will also help in case there is movement in floor,

good luck

Answer 2

You should be the one to determine if you can do it the way you want.

The critical item to know is the amount of deflection in the floor level as you apply weight in various areas of the room.

The amount of deflection should be less than 1/8" to be considered a solid floor for ceramic tile.  This can be measured by laying a straight edge  (such as a level) across the area of two floor joists at random.  If someone approximately 200 pounds would stand on one foot in the center of the joists and you measure a deflection of 1/8" or less you will be fine.  Above 1/8" the risk increases that you will have separation and cracking of the grout lines and possible cracking of the tile itself.

From what you have told us... I think you should be okay but go ahead and check it out for yourself.  You are the one that is there.

GOOD LUCK with your project!!

Answer 3

The most important thing to check before you install the tile is that there should be no movement in the subfloor.  If there is any creaking in the floor or any deflection of the joists, that should be solved first by bracing underneath or simply s******g down the loose areas of the OSB and plywood to the floor joists.  Once the subfloor is solid, then the Hardibacker can be laid in such a way that the joints between each sheet do not end where the joints in the subfloor occur.  The Hardibacker should be screwed down with screws specially manufactured for that purpose and available at the same place you get your Hardibacker.  The heads should be set at or slightly below the surface and not driven too far into the Hardibacker to achieve maximum strength.  If there is any question about the firmness of the subfloor, you can also use construction adhesive between the subfloor and the Hardibacker.

Answer 4

What is the depth of your joist?

Answer 5

You should have no problem as long as everyhing is solid and in good useable condition.  Make sure the Hardi Backer is properly nailed or screwed down.  I tile job is only as good as the surface under it.

Then just install your tile and you should be set.