Can timber floors be tiled?
Yes. Provided that they are capable of carrying the additional load, and are sufficiently stiff. To provide extra rigidity, noggings should be fitted between joists, as recommended in BS 5385-3. Alternatively, fix exterior grade or marine grade plywood (min. 15mm thick) over existing boards. Check that there is adequate ventilation and a damp-proof course. [See page 13 of the BAL Sitework Guidance literature for base preparation details of timber floors – including those with and without an overlay]. If direct fixing is possible, remove all traces of previous finishes (stain, varnish) before tiling. Lay a solid bed of BAL Fastflex Adhesive, ideally 3-4mm thick. If fixing to an overlaid timber floor, lay a solid bed of BAL Single Part Flexible Adhesive or BAL Rapidset Flexible Adhesive, ensuring NO voids left underneath tiles.
