Can You Lay Groutable Peel & Stick Tiles on Concrete Floors?

Temperature

• Before beginning installation, set the tiles on the floor in the room where you plan to install the tiles. Allow the tiles to remain in the room for 24 to 48 hours to reach the same temperature as the floor. This may help improve adhesion of the peel and stick tiles to the concrete surface.

Floor Preparation

• The concrete floor should be clean and dry to promote adhesion and keep the peel and stick tiles from shifting or curling. Sweep the surface of the concrete floor thoroughly with a broom to remove dust and debris, then mop the floor with a clean mop and a mixture of water and mild detergent. Mop the floor again with clean water to keep the detergent from forming a film on the floor. Allow the floor to dry completely before beginning installation.

Layout

• After you have prepared the concrete floor, mark the center of two opposite walls with a pencil. Snap a chalk line to create a center line. Lay out the tiles along both sides of the center line without removing the paper backing from the tiles. Continue working out from the center until you reach the walls. If necessary, cut end pieces with a utility knife so the edges fit against the walls.

Installation

• Starting at the center of the room, remove the backing from one tile, turn it over and press it in place on the concrete floor. Use a rolling pin to press the tile firmly onto the surface of the concrete. Continue pressing tiles until you have completed the floor. Press grout between the seams of the tiles with a grout float. As the grout begins to dry, wipe away excess grout with a damp sponge.

Considerations

• Although groutable peel and stick tile can transform a concrete floor, you should only use this type of tile in a dry area. If your concrete floor has cracks or is prone to moisture problems, your tiles may not adhere to the concrete surface.