Ceramic tiles are one of the most commonly used construction materials, available in a wide variety of designs and colors. They have a thriving market and are used for covering floors and walls, adding an attractive aesthetic to any space.
Given that ceramics can emit heat evenly across an interior, they are considered one of the best options for flooring. However, in some cases, tiles installed on heating systems may crack or lift. This issue has several causes, and we’ll explore them here.
What Causes Ceramic Tiles to Crack in Underfloor Heating?
Underfloor heating is one of the most efficient systems for warming a home, providing a pleasant heat throughout the environment. In this method, pipes are installed under the floor, and warm water flows through them, transferring heat to the tiles and warming the room. It’s important to ensure that this system is installed by specialists using proper tools and equipment.
At times, the tiles placed over heating systems are subjected to thermal stress or rapid temperature changes, leading to damage. The cause of cracked tiles can be linked to the continuous expansion and contraction of the ceramic material. To avoid this issue, using high-quality, top-grade ceramics is crucial. In general, cracking in underfloor heating systems can be caused by several factors, including:
Use of low-quality tiles
Constant temperature changes and the expansion and contraction of pipes under the tiles
Use of low-quality adhesives
Incorrect tile installation
Improper subfloor preparation
Lack of experience in installation
Use of poor-quality mortar
Incorrect adhesives
Ignoring safety and construction principles
Lack of expansion joints
Using unsuitable pipes and poor plumbing
Applying heavy loads on tiles, leading to pressure damage
How to Prevent Ceramic Tiles from Cracking?
Every issue has its causes, and to prevent a problem, it’s important to identify and address the factors that lead to it. As mentioned earlier, the cracking of tiles in underfloor heating systems is related to the expansion and contraction of the ceramic tiles. To prevent this issue, several strategies can be employed:
1. Use of High-Quality Tiles
The most important step in preventing cracked tiles in underfloor heating systems is to use high-quality, durable ceramics. When purchasing, look for tiles that can withstand high pressure, temperature, and heat without changing shape or breaking.
Porcelain tiles are one of the highest-quality types available in the market and are known for their strength and heat resistance. While porcelain tiles are more expensive, their excellent properties and resistance make them a worthwhile investment.
2. Proper Installation
Correct installation is another key factor in preventing tile cracking. Always hire experienced professionals for the job, and ensure that high-quality mortars or adhesives are used during installation.
If you're installing the tiles yourself, be sure to familiarize yourself with installation techniques. Online resources and consultations with experts can help you understand the process. Make sure to clean the floor thoroughly and ensure the surface is smooth before installation.
3. Proper Subfloor Preparation
One of the main causes of cracked tiles is improper subfloor preparation. To avoid this, the floor should be prepared properly. This includes ensuring the surface is free of any debris or obstacles and is completely smooth.
Using high-quality, strong, and standard mortars, such as cement or concrete, is critical for preventing tile damage. If the subfloor has any gaps or voids, moisture may seep through, causing damage to both the tiles and the structure underneath.
Improper subfloor preparation can also lead to uneven heat distribution, causing tiles to lift or crack due to localized heating.
4. Adhering to Safety Guidelines
Failure to follow safety standards during installation can lead to tile damage. If tiles are not installed properly or safety precautions are ignored, they are likely to crack or break.
5. Expansion Joints
When the underfloor heating system is in use, both the concrete and the tiles will expand and contract. If the gaps between tiles aren’t wide enough, this movement can cause the tiles to crack. Ensuring proper expansion joints between tiles helps prevent excessive heat from being transferred directly to the tiles, thus reducing the risk of cracking.
Solutions for Cracked Tiles in Underfloor Heating
Even with all the preventive measures, tiles can sometimes still crack due to errors during installation or other unforeseen factors. If this happens, here are a few solutions:
- Replace Cracked Tiles: The simplest solution is to remove the cracked tiles and replace them with new ones. Be careful during this process to avoid damaging adjacent tiles. It’s important to match the new tiles with the rest of the floor in terms of design and color.
- Reinstall the Entire Floor: If a larger number of tiles are cracked, you may need to remove all the tiles, properly prepare the subfloor, and install new high-quality tiles.
- Check Subfloor Preparation: If you find that the subfloor wasn’t properly prepared, consider using insulation materials like fiberglass in areas where the heating pipes run. This ensures even heat distribution.
- Fix Leaks in the Heating System: If you notice any leaks in the pipes during installation, address them immediately to prevent further damage to the subfloor.
- Use Flexible Adhesives: Using flexible adhesives can help prevent tiles from loosening or cracking due to thermal movements.
Final Thoughts
In this article, we discussed the causes of cracked ceramic tiles in underfloor heating systems and the preventive measures to avoid this issue. Improper subfloor preparation, low-quality tiles, lack of attention to standards, and improper installation are all factors that can contribute to tile cracking. To prevent these problems, using high-quality materials, ensuring proper subfloor preparation, and working with experienced professionals are essential steps to take.