Tile priming is a preparatory process before tiling the surface, it involves applying a specific primer or bonding agent onto the tile surface to enhance adhesion and ensure a strong bond between the tiles and the adhesive.

Tile primers are mostly synthetic liquid products that are based on latex, epoxy, or polyurethane. They are used to prepare the surface for tiling. Priming is more like the first step in a tile installation.

Why is it necessary to prime before tiling:

  • It eliminates all the dust and other surface containments on the surface.
  • Primers provide a smooth and more even base by leveling the surface and correcting any imperfections.
  • It enhances adhesion by adding grit or texture to a smooth surface to allow a strong bond with the tiles and the substrate.
  • Primers prevent moisture penetration. They stop the surface from absorbing all the water in the thin set and seal the surface of the substrate to make it less porous. It prevents the moisture from affecting the adhesive.
  • Some primers offer resistance to stains ensuring the tiles remain clean and attractive over time.

What primer should you use under tiles?

There are several good quality primers that you can use but the specific tile primer to use may vary depending on the type of tiles, the substrate, and the adhesive to be used.

The two main types of tiling primers are; basic acrylic-based milky liquid primers used on porous surfaces like concrete or fiber board. The other one is resin-based and works on non-absorbent smooth surfaces like existing tiles.

For concrete surface a good choice is a latex-modified thin set mortar which acts both as an adhesive and a primer. The mortar helps to create a strong bond between the concrete and the tile.

For highly polished concrete floors mechanical scarring may be needed to allow the tile primer to penetrate.

For plywood subfloor or wooden surfaces, a high-quality latex or acrylic-based primer specifically designed for wood will be the best option for wood.

For existing tiles if you are retiling over existing tiles a specialized bonding primer or an epoxy-based primer that is designed to promote adhesion to glossy or nonporous surfaces will be a good option

Alternatively, you can use a resin tiling primer. The tile primer will be painted over the existing tiles and grout and provide the thin-set with a sticky and rough surface to adhere to.

Best tile primers that you can consider;

1.Mapei’s Eco Prim Grip

It is a synthetic resin-based primer that enhances the performance and adhesion of motars to existing ceramics and difficult to bond to substrates.

Price: $150-$170.

This is top of the list as the best primer suitable for a wide variety of substrates. Can be used on tiles without the need to demolish the existing ones, natural stone, exterior grade plywood, and concrete. It gives excellent versatility and easy application with a low odor.

It provides an excellent bond strength with resistance to moisture and aging.

Downside: It is a bit pricey but it gets the job done.

Verify that the substrate is free of bond-inhibiting or bond-breaking materials such as dust, paint, asphalt, wax, oil, sealers, or curing compounds as this will affect its performance.

2.Zinsser tile primer

This is another versatile primer that provides adhesion even on difficult-to-bond substrates and can be used on porous and non-porous surfaces.

Price: $15-$45.

It is a multi-surface bonding primer that is water-based and engineered to deliver superior adhesion.

Limitation; not for use in exterior commercial applications,

Should not be subject to prolonged water immersion

3.Custom Levelquick Advanced Acrylic Tile Primer

This is a basic acrylic-based primer for use on concrete, cement terrazzo, exterior grade plywood, and OSB

It is a great tile adhesive primer for everyday use over porous and absorbent surfaces.

Limitation;

It doesn’t bond directly to hardwood, particle board, fiberglass or plastic.

How long after primer can you tile?

The priming process involves cleaning the tile surface thoroughly, applying the primer using the brush or roller, allowing it to dry completely, and then proceeding with the tile installation.

The time needed for the primer to dry might vary depending on the type of the primer always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the application process, drying times, and compatibility with the tile and adhesive products.

Primers typically require a few hours to a full day to dry completely it’s essential to allow primers enough time to dry before proceeding with tiling.

Check for dryness with your finger by touching the primed surface lightly with your finger if it feels dry to the touch and there are no stick areas it’s likely ready for tiling.

Proper tile priming can significantly improve the overall quality and longevity of the tile, ensuring the tiles remain securely bonded to the substrate for an extended period.