Tile floor problem

Futbalfantic

Well-Known Member
Joined
Aug 5, 2006
Location
Charlotte
I have a slab on grade basement floor that has been in place for 20 years. Approx 15 years ago the floor was covered with tile. Over the summer I noticed one of the tiles was coming loose. Well went down to the basement last night and noticed that approx 10 tiles are raised approx 1/4." The tiles are 18x18. None are cracked. Grout lines look perfect. Tapping on the tiles indicates it is hollow underneath the tiles.

Any thoughts on the cause?

My guess is the adhesive under the tiles has given up the ghost and the tiles are expanding causing them to raise up.
 
I've got a similar situation. House was built 11 years ago, 5 or 6 tile in the basement mudroom have came loose. FWIW they used "sealer" on the concrete when the house was built. Before I had the tile installed I had mixed opinion on it sticking, and I assume the sealer is my issue (some said it would need to be removed with an acid solution before tile was installed). It could be the same thing you've got going?
 
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I'd say either you are having settling cracks in the slab or a moisture issue under the tile.
 
that is a tough application.
Basement floor is susceptible to both heat and moisture cylcing, plus you didnt even mention if the space is climate controlled. If not that exacerbates the problem,

Over a prolonged period of time heat and moisture cycling causing repeated expansion and contraction will fatigue the adhesive bond.
 
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