Ceramic Tile Floor Mortar
When
installing a ceramic tile floor always use a thinset ceramic
tile floor mortar that is latex or polymer fortified to
avoid cracking or loosing of tiles. Thinset can be purchased
by the bag that is “polymer fortified” that is mixed with
water or it can be purchased less expensively as unfortified
thinset and add liquid latex as directed. For any
ceramic tile floor mortar always use thinset mortar.
Use gray
thinset for ceramic and stone tiles that are dark or deep in
color. However, many types of marble, glass, and other kinds
of tiles are slightly translucent, so a gray mortar would
slightly muddy their color. For these tiles, use white
thinset, which costs only a little more.
How to do it:
-
Use a square-notched trowel with ¼-inch notches produces
grooves of the right thickness for the tiles. For
thicker tiles a larger notched trowel is recommended.
-
Only mix enough mortar that is within your capability to
work before drying out, about enough to cover three
square feet. If the mortar starts to dry out or harden
while you work, throw it out and mix a new batch. Do not
try to rejuvenate by adding liquid or you will have a
weak mortar that will not hold the tiles in place.
-
For DIY household projects mix the mortar by hand in a
suitable bucket or plastic wash tub. A margin trowel or
garden trowel is the best tool for mixing. Add a couple
of inches of liquid to the bottom of a bucket and pour
in some powder. Stir with the trowel, scraping the
bottoms and sides as you mix. Add the liquid slowly to
avoid adding to much. Keep mixing until you attain a
consistency that still holds its shape and is barely
pourable.
-
Spread the mortar by dumping scoop onto the floor. Use
the flat side of the trowel to spread the mortar over an
area about 3 feet square.
-
Do not cover any layout lines. Comb the mortar using the
notched side of the trowel to produce an even surface.
Use long strokes and hold the trowel at a consistent
angle. The mortar cement may cause skill irritation, so
use gloves to protect your hands.
Related articles:
Buying Ceramic Tile
Ceramic
Tile Floor Installation
Ceramic Tile Floor Cement Board Installation
Porcelain and
Ceramic Tile
|
DIY
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