On top of the subfloor you lay down a layer of paper. Then, nail down some steel meshwork on top of that. Then pour 1-3 inches (depending on the levelness of the subfloor) of high sand concrete on top of that. Then spread a thin layer of setting mortar on top of that. Then set the tile and grout it.

Let’s just say it will be a LOT of work getting it all up so we can get to the subfloor and figure out what’s underneath. Also, several hundred pounds of debris to dispose of.

Here’s the progress so far…