Cleaning Supplies

• One of the most important aspects of preparing the concrete slab for tile installation is that it must be clean. Any contaminants on the surface will ruin the way the tile adhesive bonds to the concrete, creating unsafe and uneven installations. Clean the entire concrete slab with a mop and clean water to remove dirt and dust. If the slab surface has grease, wax, old paint, grime or other tough contaminants, wash it down with mineral spirits for a better bond. Make sure the concrete is completely dry before you move on with the installation process.
  
  

Patching Compound

• Concrete patching compound is an essential material to prepare a slab for ceramic tile. The concrete slab must be completely flat and stable to effectively support the tile. Therefore, you need to fill in any cracks or holes, as well as completely level the surface to eliminate any humps or dips. The patching compound is available in both pre-mixed and water-needed forms. Spread the material into the necessary areas with a trowel or putty knife. In some cases, you may need to completely resurface the slab with this material to get everything flat and level.
  
  

Etching Solution

• Depending on the condition of your concrete and the tile manufacturer's recommendations, you may need an etching solution for the preparatory steps for your slab. This acid-based material will roughen up the otherwise smooth surface of the concrete, giving the tile adhesive some type of a textured surface to which it can bond fully. A glossy, fully smooth surface will not bond as fully to the adhesive. When applying this material, you will also need safety equipment including goggles, dust mask and protective gloves and boots, since working with acid is extremely dangerous.
  
  

Other Materials

• Some tile manufacturers require that you install a waterproof underlayment between the concrete and the tile to ensure that any moisture contained in the concrete does not mar the tile surface. Follow your tile manufacturer's specific recommendations regarding using this material. Otherwise, you will need the basics for a tile installation: thinset mortar and a mixer to combine it with water, a trowel to spread the adhesive, a tile cutter or sharp utility knife to cut the tiles and measuring tapes and chalk lines to lay out your installation.