[J187]

I'm getting some conflicting information here... I'm getting ready to install ceramic tile. I have plywood subfloor and I'll be installing concrete backerboard for the substrate. I know that I need to stagger the backboard seams and leave 1/8" gap which gets taped and filled w/ thinset. However, I'm being told by one person that I should leave the same gap where the board meets the walls and just fill that gap w/ thinset and another person is saying I need to tape those as well. What is the right way to do it?

 

[ponch37300]

You need to leave an 1/8 to 1/4" gap around walls and cabinets. You don't need to fill it with mortar or tape it. The tile needs this same gap also.

 

[J187]

You need to leave an 1/8 to 1/4" gap around walls and cabinets. You don't need to fill it with mortar or tape it. The tile needs this same gap also.

Hmm, there were no baseboards and the old tiles were grouted right to the wall... Interesting. I intend to install baseboards so I guess they will cover a gap if I leave one

 

[J187]

I guess the instructions on the backerboards websites are a little ambiguous, they say "fill all gaps with thinset"... I'm glad I asked

 

[Bob Mariani]

you also have gaps in between boards, this is what they want filled. but taping over them is also a good option

 

[J187]

Thanks. I knew about the gaps between the boards getting filled, I was just confused on the ones to the wall. Thanks to all for the help. Last time I tiled I went right over the old tile and didn't have to worry about any of this.