What kind of subfloor is best for ceramic tile? Installers know that the final flooring material is only as good as the subflooring under it. Even the best and most expensive ceramic tile develops problems when the subfloor lacks proper preparation or does not meet the requirements.
The best subfloors or underlayment for ceramic tile are exterior-grade plywood, cement-based backer board, a single layer of resilient or vinyl flooring, or a concrete slab. OSB wood, multi-layer vinyl, drywall, interior-grade plywood, and vinyl that installers staple only at the seams do not work as suitable subfloors for ceramic tile.
Deflection is another important part of the flooring.
The acceptable standard for floor rigidity is L/360. This applies before installers add the tile underlayment. The Tile Council of America establishes this standard. When the floor is more rigid than L/360, ceramic tile can fail.
With the right subfloor, ceramic tile will deliver many years of beauty and durability to the owners.
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