Stone tiles requires a reinforced subfloor.
Stone tiles need extra support built into the subfloor when they are installed. This is not necessarily because of the weight, but because tiles made of ceramic materials and stone tend to be inflexible, and weaker floors give slightly. This give creates a bouncing effect that can crack the tiles, so having a firm subfloor is very important.
Floor Joists
Floor joists are the beams that cross the floor and provide the base for the subfloor itself. Joists can be spaced close together to create a stronger base, but they are also strong based on what materials they are made of. Joists are timber, but different types of wood have different strengths. A strong type of wood and close joists are best for stone tile, but this may not be possible over a concrete base.
Wood Subfloors
Subfloors are typically made of plywood, often particle board nailed down over the joists to form a thick layer that the rest of the floor is built on. Different types of plywood are used, varying in layers and thickness. If the plywood subfloor is 3/4 of an inch thick, it is too thin for stone tile and should be expanded using other materials.
Mortar Beds
Traditionally, the best way to prepare for stone tile was to pour a mortar bed down on the subfloor. This mortar bed was typically made of cement and was up to an inch thick. It was poured to be smooth and level enough to support the tile at the correct angles. Mortar beds are expensive and difficult to pour, and modern stone tiles are usually set over a more simple material, such as back boards.
Cement Backer Boards
Cement backer board is made specifically for providing a base for stone and ceramic tile flooring. It is a half-inch thick board material made using gypsum and other mineral particles to make it sturdy enough to give the subfloor the extra support it needs so that the stone tile can be installed afterward.
Barriers
Sometimes barriers and films are also added to the subfloor before the tile is installed. Often, this depends on where the tile is being installed. If it is being fitted over concrete or in an outdoor area, a vapor barrier is usually added to make sure no moisture can cross up into the tile. Other layers may be used to minimize bounce or reduce sound echo to floors below.
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