Is modified and fortified thinset the same?
Latex modified usually refers to the multipurpose thin-sets that are 118.4 compliant that are mixed only with water. A latex fortified thin-set is a dry set (118.1) that is fortified with an additive (such as 317 mixed with 333 super flexible additive) that makes it 118.4 compliant. Read full answer here. Subsequently, one may also ask, what is modified thinset?
Can you mix cement with thinset?
Portland cement is used in thinset to provide the bonding mechanism; sand is added to temper the cement; and a liquid latex mortar additive is added to give the thinset pliability, allowing the materials to expand and contract without cracking. You can make your own thinset by purchasing these items separately and combining them.
How to mix modified thinset?
- always use cool water
- always use a drill and mixing paddle
- always let the thin set slake (sit for ten minutes) and mix again before using
- always add water in the bucket first then the powder
- always use small batches – like a half of a bag or less
- always try to keep each batch the same consistency
How thick should thinset be under tile?
- Small wall tiles require about ⅛-inch of thinset to bond them to the substrate. ...
- Because 12×12 tiles are large, use a ¼ X ⅜-inch trowel. ...
- Most floor tiles can be adhered with the same thinset thickness as wall tiles.
- If your floor tiles are rough or are of the lug-backed variety, step up to a ½ X ½-inch trowel. ...
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 and modified 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 do you use modified thinset for?
Modified thinset is the product of choice for most tile installations because of its increased strength and bonding with minimal shrinkage, which means a reduced chance of cracks forming in the tile. WarmlyYours Radiant Heating recommends modified thinset mortar for nearly all tile and stone installations.
Does thinset have latex in it?
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. The original polymers used to modify thinset were based on latex and the term originates from their use.
How do I know if thinset is modified?
Look for this standard on the packaging (e.g., product meets ANSI A118. 1 when mixed with water). Unmodified thin-set mortar may also be referred to as dry-set mortar by the manufacturer. Modified thin-set mortars are similar to unmodified thin-set mortars, but include additional polymers such as latex.
What is the best thinset for shower 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.
Is modified thinset mortar waterproof?
Because they are waterproof, in case you would use modified thinset this will trap the moisture between the Kerdi and the tile. They say use unmodified mortar/thinset as it will cure or dry out properly (not sure why? Less water?)
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.
Is thinset the same as mortar?
The word “thinset” is sometimes used interchangeably with “mortar,” because it's a type of modified mortar made specifically for tile. Thinset is made of sand, water, and cement, and can also contain additives for increased bonding, water resistance, and flexibility.
What is the difference between latex and polymer?
In adhesives, emulsion polymers not only achieve a stronger bond, but manufacturers may use less material. Synthetic latex, unlike natural latex, allows for one or two-sided application, while natural latex always requires two-sided application.
What happens if you use modified thinset on Kerdi?
Modified thinset mortars aren't recommended for use with Kerdi because they must dry out to gain strength, whereas the membrane inhibits drying, which can lead to unpredictable results. For example, if a shower is used before the mortar has cured properly, leaks and polymer leaching can occur.
What kind of thinset do you use for Hardibacker?
Latex or acrylic modified thinset (complying with ANSI A118. 4). Dry-set mortar for use between subfloor and cement board only (complying with ANSI A118. 1).
What happens if you use modified thinset on Kerdi?
Modified thinset mortars aren't recommended for use with Kerdi because they must dry out to gain strength, whereas the membrane inhibits drying, which can lead to unpredictable results. For example, if a shower is used before the mortar has cured properly, leaks and polymer leaching can occur.
What happens if you use modified thinset on DITRA?
Since DITRA is impervious, it does not deprive the mortar of its moisture. This allows the cement to properly hydrate, resulting in a strong, dense bond coat. In general, we don't recommend the use of modified thin-set mortar to set tile over the membranes because these mortars must air dry to cure properly.
How long does it take modified thinset to cure?
With standard modified thin-set mortar the Tile Council of North America says it can take from 14 to more than 60 days to cure properly. In this case, an unmodified thin-set mortar would be best suited, as the mortar is able to properly hydrate and cure faster (typically within 24 hours).
What kind of thinset do I use for shower floor?
0:294:29Thinset for Bathroom Ceramic Tile Floors & Walls (Get the Scoop)YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWe like our decks x-77. For hanging large format tiles on a vertical surface. You can also use ourMoreWe like our decks x-77. For hanging large format tiles on a vertical surface. You can also use our decks x-77.
What is unmodified thinset?
Unmodified thinset consists simply of cement, finely graded sand and water retention agents. It’s mixed with water before it’s ready to be spread out on the subfloor.
What is modified thinset mortar?
And tile installers haven’t looked back. Modified thinset is the product of choice for most tile installations because of its increased strength and bonding with minimal shrinkage, which means a reduced chance of cracks forming in the tile. WarmlyYours Radiant Heating recommends modified thinset mortar for nearly all tile and stone installations. However, if you’re using a Prodeso Installation Membrane, you’ll want to go “old school” and stick with unmodified thinset.
Why is my cement tile cracking?
If the wrong thinset/adhesive was used, or if the thinset wasn't mixed correctly, or if the system was turned on before the thinset was fully cured, that could certainly be a cause of cement tile cracking. It's also possible that a subfloor issue (too much give in a wood subfloor or cracks telegraphing from a slab) could be the culprit. As far as the spacing of the cables in the membrane, if the heating cable is not spaced far enough apart it could cause problems for the system eventually, but it shouldn't be the reason your floor is cracking. Our sales manager has reached out to you via email and hopefully, with some more information, we'll be able to help more.
How thick is a thinset?
These modified thinsets also went back to being as their name describes — thin — thanks to their added strength. Typically, they’re applied at about 3/16 inch thick when spread out with a 3/8 inch notch trowel. And for radiant floor heating installations, the thinset must be at least 3/8 inch thick in order to embed the heating element and adhere the tile.
How long does it take for modified thinset to dry?
When sandwiched between two impervious layers — the tile and the installation membrane — drying can only take place through the open grout joints, which can take as long as 60 days!
How to test if thinset is still viable?
To test if the thinset is still viable to use, test it with your finger. If the thinset sticks to your finger, it should still stick to the surface being tiled. If not, throw it out and start a new batch. Ensure that there are no air gaps during application of thinset.
Why do people use thinset?
Back in the 1940s, people used 2-3 inches of thinset beneath their tile. That’s because they needed to make sure that the cement had enough moisture to fully cure. If there wasn’t enough moisture, the thinset wouldn’t be strong enough to bond the tile to the subfloor.
What is the difference between modified and unmodified thinset?
The main difference between modified and unmodified thinset is that the modified version contains special polymers to increase strength and flexibility. When you mix mortar with water, it begins to harden. The better the water retention, the stronger the thinset. Modified cement includes certain products that allow for better water retention ...
Why is thinset flexible?
Increased flexibility helps keep thinset from shrinking and expanding, which in turn prevents cracked tiles.
How long does it take for thinset to harden?
You have to mix both in small batches and work in stages. It is best to work in a small area at a time since the thinset hardens in about 20 minutes.
How does thinset affect strength?
Whether you use modified or unmodified thinset, the strength depends on the cement ratio to sand within the mix. A high-quality thinset will have more cement than sand, which makes it sturdier and provides more adhesion.
How to tell if thinset is unmodified?
Most of the time, when you purchase thinset, you should be able to tell from the packaging if the thinset is modified or unmodified. Sometimes, unmodified thinset will be referred to as dry-set mortar. If you are unsure, pay attention to the ANSI (American National Standards Institute) number on the product.
Why is thinset drying so long?
This long drying time is attributed to the fact that the thinset would only have access to air coming through grout joints. Therefore, when you are prepping for your tile job, consider where your tile is going and what materials will be used.
What are the elements in thinset?
They both contain a mixture of cement, sand, and a water retention agent. The ratio of these elements can differ, but all three are present in every thinset.
What is modified thin set adhesive?
ANSWER - There are modified thin-set adhesives that meet ANSI A118.4 or ANSI A118.15. 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 type of mortar should I use for porcelain tile?
After the brick substrate is properly prepared then depending on what type of tile you are installing you need to select the correct thin-set mortar. If it is a porcelain tile an ANSI A118.4 thin-set will normally work, but for glass tile and some other more difficult to adhere tiles you have to use a ANSI A118.15 improved thin-set mortar that will achieve better bond strength.
Is A118.1 a modified or non modified mortar?
They use to only recommend ANSI A118.1 non-modified thin-set mortars when installing over their membrane, but now they produce a polymer modified thin-set so they might have changed their mind.. Thanks for the quick reply. They do make 3 new types (one of which is their All-Set, which is a modified).
Can you use Redgard membrane with a thin set?
In theory, any polymer modified thin-set that meets ANSI A118.4 would bond to Custom Redgard membrane. Although it is always best to go with a single course manufacturer for installation products. So if you use Custom Redgard you should use their thin-set and grout. If you use different manufacturers for the different installation products and you have a problem then they all point fingers at each other. If you use all from the same manufacturer then you only have to deal with one company if there is a problem.
What is modified thinset?
If anything beyond the three basic components is included in the thinset, it becomes “ modified thinset .” So the inclusion of dry polymers, synthetic latex, and other similar elements identifies the product as modified thinset rather than the basic, unmodified kind.
What Is Modified Vs. Unmodified Thinset?
Regular unmodified thinset is very basic in its composition, consisting of only the fine sand, a water retention agent, and a portion of cement. Just those three components qualify it as an unmodified thinset.
How is thinset determined?
The levels or grades of the different types of thinset are determined by the amount of cement used in the mixture. For example, thinset with a higher ratio of cement to sand is better and more durable. The more sand is present, the less durable the product will be. You’ll need to identify what level of staying and binding power you need for your project, and then select a grade or level of thinset that will offer the bond strength you want.
What is thinset mortar?
Thinset is a type of adhesive mortar often used to affix stone or tile to various surfaces, especially concrete or cement flooring. Thinset is usually composed of fine sand, cement, and a chemical agent that retains water. This water-retaining agent is typically an alkyl derivative of cellulose. Plus, thinset may have a polymer or latex additive in the mix to improve its bonding power.
How long does it take for thinset to harden?
Be sure not to mix up too large a batch of thinset at once, because it will begin to harden within twenty minutes to half an hour, and you won’t be able to work with it at that point. So to avoid waste, mix it up in small batches. When you’re done applying the thinset and the tile, sit back and admire your work!
Does modified thinset cure concrete?
The longer that moisture is in play, the stronger the bond becomes. Modified thinset requires air in order to cure properly, and it’s important to allow for thorough curing time.
Can modified mortar be used on tile?
In addition to offering a more durable bond, modified thinset doesn’t shrink as much as unmodified mortar, and therefore it doesn’t lead to as many tile cracks in years down the road.
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 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 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.
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 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.
How much time do I have to work with LATAPOXY® 300 Adhesive and LATAPOXY BIOGREEN™ 300?
You will have approximately 45 minutes at 70°F (21°C) after the LATAPOXY® 300 Adhesive or LATAPOXY BIOGREEN™ 300 liquids are first blended together.
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).
Can I use LATAPOXY® 300 Adhesive and LATAPOXY BIOGREEN™ 300 for vertical, interior applications?
Yes. LATAPOXY® 300 Adhesive and LATAPOXY BIOGREEN™ 300 are designed to be used on interior, vertical applications, exterior submerged applications, and interior horizontal applications. Please note that tile or stone installed vertically with LATAPOXY 300 Adhesive and LATAPOXY BIOGREEN 300 will require support for each tile or stone unit to prevent sagging.
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.
Can I use Glass Tile Adhesive Mortar as a thin-set and as a grout?
No. Glass Tile Adhesive Mortar is an adhesive only and should not be used as a grout. Use SPECTRALOCK® PRO Premium Grout, PERMACOLOR® Select Grout, PERMACOLOR® Grout, or PERMACOLOR Select NS Grout.