What is the best latex additive for thinset mortar?
At Tile Pro Depot, we highly recommend the Laticrete 4237 Latex Additive. This Latex Additive for Mortar is ideal for slurry coats and mudbeds. This latex additive for thinset mortar can be used when installing ceramic tile, porcelain tile, brick, and stone on concrete, brick, block, or other masonry surfaces.
What is polymer modified mortar?
Polymer-Modified Mortar. Tile set by the thinset method is adhered to the substrate with a thin layer of "thinset" cement. The terms thinset cement, thinset mortar, dryset mortar, and drybond mortar are synonymous. This type of cement is designed to adhere well in a thin layer - typically not greater than 3/16th thick.
What is latex-modified thinset?
In many mortar bed installations, the mortar bed will be allowed to cure and then polymer-modified thinset will be used to bond the tile. What is latex-modified thinset? Thinset cement, to which polymers have been added, is commonly called latex-Portland cement mortar. In fact, this term is a bit of a misnomer.
What is thinset mortar?
Thinset mortar is a blend of cement, very finely graded sand, and a water retention compound that allows the cement to properly hydrate. Tile set by the thinset method is adhered to the substrate with a thin layer of "thinset" cement. The terms thinset cement, thinset mortar, dryset mortar, and drybond mortar are synonymous.
What is latex modified thinset?
Modified thinset, also known as latex or polymer modified thinset, is a mix of Portland cement, sand, and latex/polymer additives. Modified thinsets are suitable for a variety of tiles and surfaces, and have excellent adhesion and bond strength. They reduce water absorption, as well as resist shock and impact.
What does latex additive do for mortar?
The latex additive improves workability, increases bond strength, improves flexibility, adhesion, impact strength and freeze thaw resistance of mortars and grouts.
What is the difference between latex and polymer modified thinset?
They can either me latex modified thin-set where you add the appropriate liquid latex rather than water or there are polymer modified thin-sets that have dry polymers in the powder and when you add water it activates them to give similar performance as the latex modified thin-set.
What is the difference between thinset mortar and mortar?
In short, the difference between thinset and any other mortar is that thinset does not have lime in it. Instead, thinset has a moisture-retaining agent and generally retains more air pockets than mortar does.
What's the best mix for mortar?
Getting the Right Mortar Mix Consistency The most common mix for blockwork is: 4-1, that is four parts sand to one part cement but there are variations. For instance if you are using a softer brick then 5-1 or 6-1-1(six sand, one cement, one lime) may be more suitable.
Does mortar need a bonding agent?
Bonding Agent, used as admixture, makes the concrete mix elastic, thixotropic, waterproof and resistant to frost and thaw cycles. The addition of Bonding Agent to sand and cement, allows to apply the mortar to any thickness and on many supports (old concrete, wood, asphalt and others).
What does fortified mortar mean?
Fortified Thin-Set Mortar is a professional formula, all-purpose mortar, polymer-modified to provide good bond strengths. VersaBond cures quickly and adheres to most surfaces. Suitable substrates include interior and exterior floors, countertops and walls.
What is the difference between fortified and standard thinset?
Unlike unmodified mortar, which consists only of a blend of Portland cement, sand, and water retention agents, modified thinset includes additional retention products, such as latex polymers, which can increase its performance and strength.
What is the best thinset for ceramic tile?
0:222:18Choosing the Right Mortar for Tile Setting - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipChoose custom flex bond crack prevention mortar it offers high bond strengths for difficult to bondMoreChoose custom flex bond crack prevention mortar it offers high bond strengths for difficult to bond to tiles like porcelain.
What is the best mortar for shower tile?
Because thinset is not affected by moisture, it is best for floor tile and any tile in wet areas, including shower floors, walls, and ceilings and tub surrounds. Since thinset tile mortar may crack, you may wish to mix it with a special latex additive to increase its strength.
Is thinset stronger than cement?
0:542:447 Differences Between Mortar and Concrete Everyone Should KnowYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipMortar is less durable than concrete on the other hand concrete is much stronger as compared to theMoreMortar is less durable than concrete on the other hand concrete is much stronger as compared to the mortar. Because of its composing elements. The water to cement ratio is higher in mortar.
Why is it called thinset mortar?
Tile set by the thinset method is adhered to the substrate with a thin layer of "thinset" cement. The terms thinset cement, thinset mortar, dryset mortar, and drybond mortar are synonymous. This type of cement is designed to adhere well in a thin layer - typically not greater than 3/16th thick.
What is mortar additive?
Mortar admixtures typically offer properties such as waterproofing, water-repellency, efflorescence control, air entrainment using plasticizers to enhance workability, accelerating and retarding setting times etc. These mortar admixtures are used for ratios 1:3 or leaner mixes for use in masonry construction.
What is latex-modified concrete?
Latex-modified concrete is prepared using a mix of standard concrete, to which a liquid additive of water and polymers is added. This additive allows the concrete to rapidly develop waterproofing and strength.
What is plasticiser used for in mortar?
Plasticisers (admixtures or dispersants) are substances added to materials such as cement mortar mixes (as well as to plaster and concrete) to decrease viscosity and plasticity and increase workability and performance.
How much polymer additive do you add to mortar?
1. Pour 6 U.S. qts. (5,68 L) of clean water or 2 U.S. gals (7,57 L) of Polymer Additive into a clean mixing container.
Why is latex used in concrete?
A polymer film formed as a latex coalesces helps to maintain high levels of internal moisture in the concrete. Because of this, prolonged curing is neither necessary nor recommended.
Why do we use defoamers in concrete?
Defoamers are incorporated into the polymer emulsions when they are manufactured to inhibit formation of excessive air that would be caused by foam generated during mixture of the mortar or concrete. To obtain a high bond between the latex concrete overlay or mortar patch and the base concrete, a bond coat is brushed or broomed onto ...
Why add latex to mortar?
Adding latex additive to your mortar is a great way to boost bond strength and increase durability against freezing and thawing. This is especially ideal for outdoor applications, like around swimming pools, or for areas of high traffic, like in a public shower or steam room.
How to mix latex for thinset mortar?
To mix the latex additive for thinset mortar, use approximately one gallon of the additive to every 35 pounds of 211 powder. Put the additive in a clean, plastic pail and add the 211 powder and mix until you’ve reached a smooth consistency. Let the mortar slake for five to ten minutes. After slaking, apply the mortar with the flat side ...
What is the best additive for mortar?
At Tile Pro Depot, we highly recommend the Laticrete 4237 Latex Additive. This Latex Additive for Mortar is ideal for slurry coats and mudbeds. This latex additive for thinset mortar can be used when installing ceramic tile, porcelain tile, brick, and stone on concrete, brick, block, or other masonry surfaces.
What is tile pro depot?
Welcome to Tile Pro Depot! We established this site to service the specific needs of the tile installation professional. Tile installation tools, tile setting materials, premixed grout and more tile installation products online at Tile Pro Depot.
How long does it take to spread mortar on a tile?
Only spread as much mortar as you can tile in 15-20 minutes. If installing tiles 8’’ by 8’’ or larger, back butter them to ensure full bedding and support.
Does Tile Pro Depot carry latex?
At Tile Pro Depot, we carry a variety of products to address your every need. Whether you require the basic tools for tile installation, are looking for specially colored grout, or looking for latex additive for mortar for increased bond strength – we can deliver.
Can you use Laticrete in mortar?
The Laticrete la tex additive for mortar can also be used with portland cement to make slurry bond coats as well as give enhanced performance to your thinset mortars. This latex additive is a great choice because not only is it affordable, but it is safe and easy to use being non-hazardous and non-flammable. It’s been used in various types of ...
What type of mortar should I use for saltillo tiles?
Use a high strength latex fortified thin set mortar to install Saltillo tiles. (e.g. 254 Platinum, 257 Titanium, or MULTIMAX™ LITE, etc...). Saltillo tiles are very porous and highly absorptive which can quickly draw moisture out of conventional dry-set (ANSI A118.1) thin set mortars. High performance, latex fortified thin set mortars provide a longer working time as well as better adjustability time. Additionally, the moisture should not be drawn out of a latex-foritfied thin set mortar as quickly. This will result in higher bond strength and make the Saltillo installation much more durable.
Where can I use a mastic adhesive for ceramic tile or stone installations?
Use mastic adhesives in non-wet, interior areas only. Do not use a mastic in stand up shower stalls, shower floors, any exterior application, or in any area regularly or frequently subjected to moisture. Mastic adhesives are generally used over gypsum wallboard, cement backer board walls or any wall over a suitable substrate in dry conditions. Reference the specific product data sheet for other limitations, including tile size.
How do I prepare a concrete floor for a thin-set application?
Make sure that the existing concrete is clean, dry, structurally sound and free from any bond breaking or bond inhibiting materials. Bond inhibiting materials can include, but are not limited to, sealers, waxes, oils, curing compounds, dirt, grease, form release agents, paint, old adhesives, laitence, etc... If these materials are present on the concrete, they must be completely removed prior to any direct bond installations of tile or stone. Additionally, the industry tolerance for substrate flatness is to have variance no greater than ¼” (6mm) in 10 ft (3m). Use a LATICRETE® self-leveling underlayment (e.g. NXT™ Level Plus), patching material (e.g. NXT Patch or thick bed mortar (e.g. 3701 Fortified Mortar Bed to bring the surface to within required tolerance.
What is the procedure to install tile or stone over cement backer board?
There are a variety of LATICRETE products that can be used to install the tile or stone. For the superior results, use a LATICRETE® Latex Fortified Thin-set mortar system (e.g. 254 Platinum, 257 Titanium or MULTIMAX™ LITE).
How do I prepare an exterior wall to receive ceramic tile?
Walls to receive tile or stone must be made smooth and plumb. Exterior walls typically require a waterproofing membrane and the proper placement of a suitable vapor retarder/vapor barrier. It is the responsibility of the project design professional (s) to specify and place all wall installation components. If the wall needs a leveling coat refer to one of the applications listed below:
Can I use mastic adhesive to install tile on floors?
Yes. However, there are size limitations. Maximum ceramic tile or stone size for floors when using 15 Premium Mastic is 6” x 6” (150mm x 150 mm). The use of a mastic is not recommended for use on shower floors, exterior, or any floors in areas that wil be soaked, saturated, or regularly and frequently subjected to moisture or liquids. Do not use mastics for porcelain tile larger than 2” x 2” (50mm x 50mm).
How large a tile can I install on walls when using a mastic adhesive?
The maximum wall tile size when using 15 Premium Mastic is 10” x 10” (250mm x 250 mm). Do not use mastics for porcelain tile larger than 2” x 2” (50mm x 50mm).
What is mortar bed?
Originally, mortar beds were intended as a leveling and load dispersing layer over a subfloor that met the standard L/360 criteria. As such, compressive strengths could be very low (less than 1000 lbs. and high sand to cement mixes were commonplace). Also, this method allowed the floor to packed relatively quickly with short curing times.
What is floating mortar bed?
In the case of the floating mortar bed, the tile layer is unaffected by minor cracking and movement in the substrate. This can be very important in applications over concrete where cracking in the concrete could result in cracking in the tile. It is also very important in tile installations over structural slabs (not on grade) or other structures where vibration and deflection can be expected (as occurs in some exterior walls).
What is thinset mortar?
Thinset mortar is a blend of cement, very finely graded sand, and a water retention compound that allows the cement to properly hydrate. Tile set by the thinset method is adhered to the substrate with a thin layer of "thinset" cement. The terms thinset cement, thinset mortar, dryset mortar, and drybond mortar are synonymous. This type of cement is designed to adhere well in a thin layer - typically not greater than 3/16th thick. For example, a 3/8" notch trowel will produce a 3/16th inch thick coating after the tiles are pressed in to the cement. While very minor adjustments in height can be made, this method is not appropriate for adjusting the level or flatness of a surface - rather the tile will follow the plane of the substrate.
What are the properties of polymers in cement?
The use of these polymers allows specific properties to be imparted to the cement; commonly, freeze/thaw resistance, improved flexibility, and improved adhesion. There are also polymers used to make the cement waterproof or sufficiently elastic so that it acts like an anti-fracture membrane.
Do bonded mortar beds float?
As bonded mortar beds do not float over the substrate, they do not offer protection from cracking or movement in the substrate. However, they do offer the same advantages listed above and in many cases can be safely installed in a thinner layer than a floating mortar bed.
Is thinset tile faster than mortar?
Thinset applications are less expensive and typically faster to install than mortar bed applications. However, as the tile is bonded directly to the substrate, any variation or movement in the substrate can affect the tile. Also, there are many types of polymer-modified thinsets on the market allowing the specifier the opportunity to match the thinset properties with the project requirements. In many mortar bed installations, the mortar bed will be allowed to cure and then polymer-modified thinset will be used to bond the tile.
How is polymer modified mortar made?
Polymer modified mortar is produced by mixing water with polymeric admixtures, Portland cement, and sand. The addition of polymer improves mortar's performance and consequently can be utilized advantageously and economically in several applications.
Why is polymer mortar good?
It has also been demonstrated that polymers improve mortar curing because it reduces the rate of water evaporation. This reduced rate of water evaporation is especially important in thin applications, where the surface area for evaporation is high, relative to the volume of the mortar.
What is the role of polymers in mortar?
3. Adhesion. Due to the fact that Polymers act as an adhesive, it improves the adhesion of mortar to different surfaces like concrete, masonry, brick, wood, rigid polystyrene and polyurethane foam, glass, and metals.
Why are polymers used in mortar?
Polymers make mortar more fluid and easier to handle and apply. It acts as a water-reducer, eventually leading to a stronger mortar with fewer voids. Specific types of polymers extend the hydration period which increase working time. This is considerably advantageous in hot climates.
How long does it take for mortar to cure?
It is required to provide adequate water to have proper curing especially during the early stages of curing process; roughly the first five to seven days.
Does polymer modified mortar require less water?
Polymer modified mortar also requires less water compared to traditional mortar which results in a more dense mortar with fewer pores.
What is the name of the compound that makes concrete stronger?
After creating more than 300 different chemical compositions, he finally discovered a liquid latex polymer that, when added to the thinset mix, would make the concrete stronger, durable, and more flexible. That is how “Laticrete,” one of the best-known modified thinsets on the market came to life.
Why is a thinset better than a cement?
A high-quality thinset will have a higher percentage of cement because it makes it sturdier as well as more resistant and sticky.
Why did engineers add rubber to cement?
Engineers at that time added rubber into the thinset mix to repair and make seawalls more durable. Later, constructors began using it to make brick installations stronger. But, in spite of the fact that adding rubber to cement helped retain water for longer, this compound still had its limitations.
How to tell if a thinset is modified?
One easy way to know if what you’re working with is modified or unmodified thinset is to look at the American National Standards Institute or ANSI number on the product. Thinset carries the number A118.1. But, depending on whether the thinset is modified or not, the code will change accordingly.
What are the elements that make up a modified thinset?
These grades or levels are dictated by the ratio of cement to sand used in the mix. In the case of modified thinset, the percentage of the retention product added into the mix is also a telling factor for quality. These three elements: cement, sand, and the retention compound are what give quality and resistance to modified and unmodified thinset.
Why does cement harden when mixed with water?
Adding water to Portland cement starts a chemical reaction known as hydration. The cement reacts with the water and forms interlocking crystals, which make cement hard.
What are the benefits of modified thinset?
As mentioned already, one of the benefits of modified thinset is that it contains retention products that allow for better water retention and, therefore, a stronger concrete cure.
