Do kitchen tiles need underlay? Well, you’ve come to the right place because that’s exactly what we’ll be going over in this post.
So, let’s get straight into it!
Table of Contents
Underlay Is The Best Way
All kitchen tiling will need a sturdy base structure, no matter what you do. There are certain tiles that come with an underlay connected to the kitchen tiles you will buy, and these prove to be very helpful. So what types of Underlays are there to choose from?
Best Types Of Underlays
The best types of underlay for kitchen tiling are Cement Boards, Coated Polystyrene, and Flexible Tile Mats.
The Cement Boards are water stable, but not waterproof. Only the Polystyrene and Flexible Mats are 100% Waterproof. The Cement Boards are heavy and brittle. You will need to wear a face covering when cutting, as it does release carcinogenic silica dust.
However, the Cement Boards are relatively inexpensive, long lasting, and sturdy. Recently, there has been a rise in using Fiber Cement Boards that eliminates a lot of these issues while still keeping costs low.
The Coated Polystyrene, also known as the Extruded Polystyrene (or EPS) cuts so cleanly you could use a box cutting knife on it. It’s lightweight, easy to work with, and includes options such as the Weidi Board or the Hydroblok Board. It’ll be a bit more expensive than the Cement Boards, but definitely worth it!
Flexible Tile Mats contain a raised pattern with a synthetic fiber backing. This material is lightweight, easy to work with, cuts cleanly, is easy to transport, and includes many options such as: heated flooring and crack isolation membrane.
Most Affordable Types Of Underlays
- Foam
- Cork Rubber
- Rubber and Cork
- Plywood
- Waterproof Membranes
If you are looking for a cheaper DIY solution, there are many options for underlays. Foam, Cork, Rubber, Rubber and Cork, Plywood, and Waterproof Membranes are just a few to list.
Foam is one of the cheapest options out there while still maintaining its value. Depending on what kind you decide to go with, it can vary on the pros and cons of foam. Some foam is very easy to lay down while other types are more time consuming.
Cork is a naturally waterproof option that uses the bark from cork trees. This is a very affordable option and creates a smooth and fairly easy process.
Rubber is considered “eco-friendly” because it’s made from recycled rubber products. This works very well in conjunction with concrete floors.
Rubber Cork combines the two while keeping all the positives of each. This sturdy combination helps to prevent cracks in your tile.
Plywood is the most used type of underlay. It’s an inexpensive option, but it’s also highly recommended that a tile mat type of underlay be used with it as plywood by itself could prove to be damaging over time. Wood tends to warp and bend over time, so if you decide to go with this option, make sure to use some sort of mat underlayment with it.
Waterproof Membranes are ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor tiling. This is available in sheet and liquid form.
Out of all of these listed, it should be noted that Rubber Cork and Waterproof Membrane are likely the best options out there.
Walls, Countertops, & Floors
Let’s start with the Flooring. If you have old flooring, like linoleum, it’s better to rip that up first. Older flooring tends to either already have issues with cracking and unevenness or it will do so in the near future and you will just have to replace it anyway.
If your flooring is new, whether it be concrete or wood, you will need a mat or tile mat underlay before you put the tiling down. You can even combine the tile mat underlay with strips of waterproof membrane to ensure that water doesn’t damage your flooring.
Next, let’s move on to Walls. We recommend Polystyrene Boards for the wall area that is especially surrounding the sink and areas that are likely to get water on them. Polystyrene Boards are also non-flammable, making them ideal for walls that might have a fireplace or stove near or in your kitchen.
Finally, the Countertops will accumulate the most water. Because of this, the Polystyrene Boards are once again the most ideal for the countertops. Cement boards and tile mats will work for countertops, but they tend to take more time and work.
Underlay Connected To Kitchen Tiles
While this option will be more expensive, thanks to this innovative industrial time we are in, there exists underlays that actually snap on to kitchen tiles or come connected to the kitchen tiles themselves.
You can find these online on sites like Wayfair, Amazon, and Alibaba. Although they will run up higher in cost, we can say it’s worth it if you have the budget.
How Do You Install Underlay?
Thankfully, installing the underlay is a very simple and easy process. Tools and materials are required for this. You will need a drill driver, cutting knife, thin set mortar, a putty knife, ¼-inch trowel, hammer, etc.
First, you want to apply the mortar bed to the floor, wall, or countertop. This will be to place the first underlayment sheet.
Second, install more of these sheets to cover the desired area.
Next, trim the last panel and adjust each row.
Lastly, cover the joints with painters tape.
How Do You Remove Tile Underlay?
When you remove tile underlay, it is generally a time consuming and difficult process. The older the material you are trying to remove is, the harder it is going to be to do so. With enough experience, it should take anywhere from half an hour to a few hours to remove the tile underlay. You will need a chisel, painters tape,shop vac, etc.
First, using the chisel and hammer, remove the old tiles and underlay from the floor.
Second, use the painters tape on the joints.
Lastly, clean the adhesives and small chunks off the floor.
Importance of Tile Underlayment
Underlayment can really enhance your floors, walls, and countertops. Having that protective measure in place guarantees that your kitchen will last longer. You won’t have to worry about cracks or moisture. Be sure to follow the instructions given for the particular Tile Underlayment you decide to choose.
