How long do ceramic tiles take to dry after washing?

Q. I heard that ceramic tiles absorb water and we have ceramic tile in the downstairs bedroom. After I wash the tile floor how long do I wait until I can move our dressers and furniture back on the tile? Because once I bring in the dressers I don't think the tiles will have a chance to dry because it is fully covered by the dressers, right?

A. Natural tile that is not sealed can take up to 24 hours to dry. I recently re sealed my tile floors, and had this same question. I called a few contractors, and asked some questions. If you are not putting down some type of sealer or something that requires it to be EXTREMELY dry, a few hours, or overnight is fine. If you want to speed up drying time, turn up the heat in the house, and put a box fan in the room to circulate air. Also, is there airflow under the dressers (do they have legs?). If so, you won't run into as many issues. Here's an article on sealing floors that has some cleaning info. too. Good luck!

http://hubpages.com/hub/Refinishing-a-Tile-Floor

Can I put a concrete overlay in basement with ceramic tile but new french drain and concrete around perimeter?

Q. They had to jackhammer through ceramic tiles around the perimeter. So the perimeter is concrete that is about 1/8-1/4 inch lower than the remaining tiles. Can the overlay be poured over ceramic tile? Will it level out easily at the perimeter? thanks!

A. What kind of overlay? How large are the existing ceramic tiles? You will need to score the glazing of the tile to ensure good adhesion. For this you can rent a diamond "buffer" from a rental store. If you are using real true concrete most manufactures/suppliers require a minimum of 3" of concrete to be laid and reinforced.

How do I 'stick' ceramic tiles to a wooden contertop?

Q. I would like to place ceramic tiles on a wooden kitchen countertop? What kind of glue would be best?
would grouting be required between the tiles?

A. First let me caution you about attaching to wood...wood is NOT a stable surface. It contracts, and expands which will break the tile, or grout at some point.
If you can use Hardi Backer (concrete board) it would greatly improve your chances of the tile lasting. Then use a thin set morter to "glue" it down (please don't use glue of ANY type). Depending on the tile you choose...some tiles can be butted up against each other so the grout lines are 1/8" or smaller. But this can't be done with all tiles. Check with the place you bought the tile.

Good luck.

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