Tile flooring to replace carpet

[LittleChief]

My home has a crawl space, hence the sub floor is either plywood or OSB. Considering removing carpet from my living room and installing the wood grain ceramic tile. I realize it will be a cold floor, but we like rugs. Any problem doing this and what do you think about the way it will look? Any tips? I'm a home repair novice... do you recommend getting an "expert" to do this?

The other option would be regular hard wood flooring. I am not a fan of laminate flooring. Looks good, but get water on it and it is pretty much ruined with raised edges along joining pieces.

Thanks for your opinions.

[HayZee518]

with tile you will need a sub floor that will not flex under any circumstances. tiles will pop off. grout will come out of joints,
regular flooring would be best as it would flex with the loading of it. laminate might but essentially it is floatinjg on the sub floor.

[pushkins]

I agree with HayZee, the sub flooring if paramount to any good tile installation. If the subfloor is sturdy then you apply a layer of thinset with a 1/4" notched trowel then immediately install cement backer board (screw it down DO NOT let anyone convince you to just nail it down) once it is dry (24 hours) you can proceed in tiling.
The backer board will give a moderate amount of latitude to "flex" or climatic changes as it will move with the tile and visa versa. (wood and tile/cement expand and contract very differently throughout the year).
A small trick is to lay out ALL the backer board in the room before you start the initial thinset application to the existing subfloor, that way all your cuts are premade and you can lift up one sheet at a time and apply thinset and screw it down then move onto the next sheet.
Another tip, when you have removed all the carpet and ALL the staples, screw down the existing subfloor to the floor joists. (if it was initially nailed also make sure all nails are hammered home).
There are many screws to be applied to each sheet of backer board so it might be easier on your back and hands if you hire/rent a subflooring screw gun.

[LittleChief]

Thanks. I am going to talk to some tile guys about it too. I don't want to go to the expense of doing it only to see the tiles lifting up over time. I am still debating the ceramic tile choice in general.

[livingwithwhite]

Tile flooring is a cost-effective, durable, and aesthetically pleasing flooring option. It's a popular choice for kitchen and bathroom floors, especially in areas. Tile flooring is more durable than carpet, and it's more hygienic than vinyl. Tile flooring is also easier to clean than other flooring options.

[livingwithwhite]

It's great that you're considering upgrading your living room flooring! Transitioning from carpet to wood grain ceramic tile or vinyl flooring can make a significant difference in the look and feel of your space.

First, let's discuss your options:

1. Wood Grain Ceramic Tile: This can be a fantastic choice for durability and aesthetics. It's easy to clean and can give your room a more modern or rustic look, depending on the tile you choose.
2. Vinyl Flooring: Vinyl flooring is another excellent option. It comes in various styles, including wood grain patterns, and is known for being more comfortable underfoot compared to ceramic tiles. It's also relatively easy to install.

Here are a few things to consider:

1. Subfloor: Both ceramic tile and vinyl flooring require a stable and level subfloor. Since you have a crawl space, it's essential to ensure that your subfloor is in good condition. If you're unsure, it might be a good idea to have an expert inspect it.

2. Temperature: You mentioned that your floor can get cold. This is more common with ceramic tile. If you choose ceramic, consider installing underfloor heating to make it more comfortable during colder months.

3. Aesthetics: The look of wood grain ceramic tile or vinyl can be stunning. However, it's essential to select a style that complements your living room's decor and your personal taste. Many home improvement stores have design experts who can help you choose the right option.

4. Installation: If you're a novice at home repair, it's generally a good idea to consult with a professional, especially if you're dealing with ceramic tile. Ceramic tile installation can be tricky, and improper installation can lead to issues down the road. Vinyl flooring is more forgiving and easier to install for DIYers, but professional installation can still ensure a better result.

5. Rugs: Since you mentioned you like rugs, they can add warmth and comfort to your living room, especially if you choose ceramic tile. Rugs can also help with the cold floor issue.

In summary, both wood grain ceramic tile and vinyl flooring can be great choices, but it depends on your preferences, budget, and the condition of your subfloor. If you're a novice, it's a good idea to consult with an expert, especially for ceramic tile installation, to ensure a successful and long-lasting result. They can also provide tips and guidance tailored to your specific situation.

[greengrass]

Installing wood-grain ceramic tile in your living room with a crawl space above a plywood or OSB subfloor can be done, but it requires careful planning and execution:

Challenges:

• Coldness: As you mentioned, ceramic tile will be colder than carpet, even in a moderate climate. Consider thicker sisal carpet or rugs and area heating options if comfort is a concern.
• Moisture: Crawl spaces can be susceptible to moisture fluctuations, which can damage wood-based subfloors. Proper ventilation and a vapor barrier are crucial. Consult a building professional for specific requirements in your area.
• Subfloor preparation: Plywood and OSB can be suitable substrates, but they need to be flat, level, and structurally sound. You may need to reinforce or replace sections if they're warped or damaged.
• Tiling expertise: Laying tile, especially with a wood-grain pattern, requires some skill and precision. If you're a novice, getting professional help could ensure a flawless finish.

Look and Feel:

• Aesthetics: Wood-grain ceramic tile can create a stylish and modern look in your living room. Consider choosing shades that complement your existing decor.
• Texture: While ceramic tile lacks the softness of carpet, textured finishes can offer some grip and warmth underfoot.

If you're a home repair novice, getting professional help for your project is highly recommended. This will ensure a successful installation and potentially save you from dealing with costly mistakes. However, if you're confident in your DIY skills and have done your research, you can certainly undertake this project yourself.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to use wood-grain ceramic tile or hardwood flooring depends on your budget, DIY skills, desired aesthetics, and tolerance for a colder floor.

I hope this information helps you make an informed decision for your living room flooring!

[Sophia Grace]

Tile flooring is a cost-effective, durable, and aesthetically pleasing flooring option. It's a popular choice for kitchen and bathroom floors, especially in areas. Tile flooring is more durable than carpet, and it's more hygienic than vinyl. Tile flooring is also easier to clean than other flooring options.

Tile flooring is a cost effective, durable, and visually appealing option for flooring. Its commonly chosen for kitchen and bathroom floors, particularly in high traffic areas. Compared to carpet, tile flooring offers greater durability, and it's considered more hygienic than vinyl. Additionally, tile flooring is easier to clean than many other types of flooring.

[Mary_darnell]

My home has a crawl space, hence the sub floor is either plywood or OSB. Considering removing carpet from my living room and installing the wood grain ceramic tile. I realize it will be a cold floor, but we like rugs. Any problem doing this and what do you think about the way it will look? Any tips? I'm a home repair novice... do you recommend getting an "expert" to do this?

The other option would be regular hard wood flooring. I am not a fan of laminate flooring. Looks good, but get water on it and it is pretty much ruined with raised edges along joining pieces.

Thanks for your opinions.

Switching from tile flooring to carpet offers numerous benefits that appeal to many homeowners.

1: Comfort: Carpet provides a soft and cushioned surface underfoot, offering warmth and comfort, especially during colder seasons, compared to the cold and hard feel of tile.

2: Warmth and Insulation: Acting as a natural insulator, carpet helps retain heat within the room, leading to increased energy efficiency and a cozy atmosphere.

3: Noise Reduction: The carpet effectively absorbs sound, reducing noise transmission and creating a quieter environment, particularly beneficial in multi-story homes or apartments.

4: Safety and Slip Resistance: With its non-slip surface, the carpet provides better traction, reducing the risk of slips and falls, especially important for households with children, the elderly, or pets.

5: Versatility and Design Options: Carpets come in a variety of colors, patterns, and textures, offering endless design possibilities to match any decor style or preference.

6: Softens the Look and Feel: Carpet adds warmth and softness to a room, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere that enhances comfort for occupants and guests.

Overall, replacing tile with carpet can transform the ambiance of your home, providing improved comfort, warmth, safety, and design flexibility for a more enjoyable living experience.

[kemiy]

Installing wood grain ceramic tile on a subfloor of plywood or OSB is a good idea and looks great. Ensure the subfloor is level and add a cement backer board. Rugs will help with the cold. As a home repair novice, hiring a professional is recommended for flooring takeoff.

If you prefer warmer floors, consider hardwood flooring. Avoid laminate due to water damage issues.