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What is Thin Set Mortar?Mixing At least 24 hours before installation, check that the tiles, mortar and room temperature are at 50 to 70 F. This should also be done 48 hours after installation to ensure best results. The powder should be added to clean, cool water then meticulously mixed to a thick, creamy consistency. Allow the mortar to stand for ten minutes then mix again, avoiding mixing at high speeds to prevent air from getting in the mortar. Installing Using the flat side of a notched trowel, spread the thin set mortar in an area that can be tiled in about 20 to 30 minutes. Once done, comb the mortar uniformly in a ridge pattern and place each tile by carefully laying them down then twisting and beating them into place to promote a good bond. Check that the mortar layer is heavy enough so that complete contact between adhesive and tile is achieved when the tile is positioned. After the tiles are set, the mortar bed thickness should be 3/32 to 1/8 inch thick without any voids or air pockets. For large tiles, it might be necessary to spread adhesive on their back side for complete coverage and support. In the case of mosaics, spread the back side of each piece with the mortar using a palette knife or putty knife then press onto substrate, pushing and twisting the tile to ensure a good bond. Keep in mind that the standard pot-life of the mortar is two to three hours, and it should be sporadically re-mixed during use in order to maintain a smooth, creamy consistency. Grouting Grouting can be done in about 16 to 24 hours after installation, when all the tiles are held firmly in place. Before grouting, the tiles should not be disturbed, and unglazed tiles should be applied with a sealant to avoid discolorations. Cold temperatures can expand the grout curing time, and immediately after application, excess material from the tile surface, hands and even tools used should be cleaned right away with warm soapy water.
, Using Ceramic Tiles.com |
