There is nothing like the look of tile or slate on that outdoor deck. Unfortunately, the beauty is soon forgotten if water makes its way into your home from the deck, thorugh the tile. It is then clear that most of the attention was given to the appearance rather than proper waterproofing techniques, when the tile was first installed. The resulting repairs can be intrusive and expensive when the cost of replacing the tile is considered.
This is a common story. There seems to be a lack of understanding within the building community about the proper waterproofing of decks, balconies and roof decks that are overlaid with porcelain tile, slate or some of the other natural stone finishes.
A failed tile deck or balcony is a common occurrence. There are two main types of failures; problems with the tile overlay such as eruptions or cracking and problems with the structure such as leaks into the building and rot. In most cases, the source of the failure is the lack of understanding of the properties and the limitations of the materials being used:
1. Inadequate waterproofing: There are many 'waterproof products' yet they are being installed incorrectly. A knowledgeable contractor is more important that a good product. Poor waterproofing can have far more expensive consequences than just repairing the tile if it involves rot repairs from a water leak.
2. Waterproofing membrane which is soft allows too much deflection: Any acceptable material must be firm enough under all temperatures to support the tile overlay. Many decks are waterproofed with 'Modified Bitumen' roofing membranes that get soft in hot weather which may allow tile to crack. Any suitable product will be tested with a Robinson Floor tester to meet ASTM C-627
3. Tile is installed with no provision of expansion: There is a recommendation by the tile association of expansion joints every 8-10 feet in any direction. If the tile has no room to expand, tiles will crack or lift.
waterproofing membrane which allows too much deflections.
A properly installed waterproof tiled deck would look like this:
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