Danny,

Uh oh! My contractor just finished laying 122 square feet of porcelain floors directly over plywood in my kitchen.

When I had asked him if he needed me to purchase backer board, he said no, that he could lay it directly over the subfloor. I felt this wasn’t right, which led me to here, but I suppose it’s too late now.

Did I create a bigger problem for myself?

He only charged me $500 for the labor.
Mj

Mj,

It is not recommended by any manufacturer to install tile directly to plywood.

I would recommend getting a guarantee in writing from the installer.
Danny

Read our article about the cost of tile flooring and get a quote from an installer in your area by filling out form below.

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Typical Cost: $6 – $24 per sq foot

Wondering about tile on a plywood subfloor? Read our article for proper installation tips.

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    Danny Lipford

    Founder

    Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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