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How to Install Tile Floor on Balcony

Aram Khayatpour

The advent of waterproofing membrane has been a huge boost in convenience for people who have undertaken many types of floor tiling projects. But no type of flooring project has benefited more from this advancement than outdoor tile flooring.

Outdoor flooring has always been extremely difficult because of the harsh conditions that outdoor tile is subjected to and the propensity for water to seep into and underneath the tile. But with waterproofing membrane those problems can be resisted.

  1. Cut the waterproofing membrane to fit the specifications of you balcony. Remember to take into account cuts for any railings or posts.

  2. Spread a layer of thinset mortar with a trowel and then lay the waterproofing membrane down over it. Cut smaller pieces to cover any small exposed areas that may have been left open due to railing or posts. Allow the thinset mortar to dry.

  3. Use silicone caulking to seal any seams along walls or around posts and railings. If it was necessary to lay down multiple sheets of waterproofing membrane, then use Kedri membrane strips to seal the seams between them.

  4. Use a trowel to spread mortar over the waterproofing membrane. Only spread enough to lay down about three of four tiles as anymore will begin to dry before you can lay down more tiles.

  5. Lay down the tiles over the mortar with spacers in-between each tile.

  6. Continue steps four and five until the entire balcony floor is covered in tiles. Then allow the mortar to dry.

  7. Fill the spaces in-between the tiles with grout using a grout floater, making sure to wipe off any excess with a damp rag. Allow the grout ample time to dry.

  8. Apply grout sealer to the grout to help keep water from getting underneath your tile.

  9. Tip

    Consult your tile retailer to make sure that the brand of tile you are purchasing is made to stand up to the harsh conditions that your tiles will experience outdoors.

    Warning

    Outdoor tiling on a balcony without a fairly steep grade (one quarter inch per foot) will potentially pool water and not last as long as indoor tiling would.