Tile on 2nd Floor

[Bruce L.]

Hi,

Other than the bathrooms, has anyone installed tile on the second floor of their property?

I have a townhouse that was built in 1980 and looking to replace the carpet with 20"x20" porcelain tile, I want to install it on the steps (about 15 steps), 2nd floor landing (hallway) and restrooms. The main reason is because I don't want to always have to replace carpet.

Has anyone had any issues with the tile cracking? Subfloors unable to support the load, or anything else?

It may depend on the installer, but my installer will be using cement board with masonry screw and I heard you want to put thin-set between the wood sub-floor & cement board as well as between the tile & cement board.

Thanks.

[JOE SNEAD]

concrete backer board is one way to go or you could use DITRA the orange membrane that goes underneath tile and is a great product.

the tile holding up has a lot to do with the way the structure is built and the quality and specifically the thickness of your existing sub floor. if your subfloor is less than 1 1/8" thick i would look at options other than tile. if you are unsure of your structure tile may not last as long.
the vinyl flooring may be the best long term option. you can also give a more modern wood floor look.