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Factors to Consider When Using Thinset Adhesive
For most tile projects, thinset mortar is the adhesive of choice, offering a strong bond without shrinking or contracting, the ability to level slightly uneven surfaces, plus resistance to moisture and mold. The ingredients may differ slightly from brand to brand or for specialized uses, but it’s basically a combination of Portland cement, silica sand, and chemicals.
Thinset can be purchased premixed or as a bagged powder:
- Premixed thinset is a bit more expensive but also convenient, since it’s ready to be troweled right out of the tub onto the substrate. It’s a good option for small projects.
- Standard thinset, which needs to be mixed with water, is a more economical bet for larger spaces or projects that span multiple rooms.
Note, however, that standard thinset does not have the right qualities foinstalling elaborate mosaics and glass tiles. For those applications, Maison recommends VersaBond Professional Thin-Set Mortar from Custom. It’s a high bond strength, all-purpose, polymer-modified mortar that adheres to most surfaces.
Questions about your tile project or the correct installation procedures? Contact our tile expert/technical team at support@maisonmosaics.com.
Mesh-Backed Glass Tiles for Pools
While Maison is known for its innovation and expertise as a tile manufacturer, our legacy includes a team of tile installers who know the ins and outs of surface preparation and the techniques required for substrate installation. Those can be particularly tricky in pools and spas.
Glass tiles are a popular choice for pools and spas because of the visual effect, but harsh chemicals and weather exposure require additional considerations. Standard types of backing for pool tiles are all designed to accomplish the same goal: holding the tiles firmly in a pattern during installation. Options include:
- Face tape, which is a clear adhesive film that attaches to the front of the tiles and can be peeled off after installation.
- Paper front, similar to face tape, but using removable paper instead of film.
- Polyurethane cord backing, which uses a flexible poly substance on the back of the tiles to hold them together.
- Mesh, which used to have a poor reputation among some tile installers, due to concerns that the thinset was not touching the entire surface. However, these tile installation products have come a long way, even to the point that many installers prefer using mesh in pools due to ease of use.
Maison recommends Litokol litoelastic thinset for pool tile installation. It’s a flexible reactive adhesive with high performance, excellent water resistance, and no vertical slip. This product is suitable for interior and exterior floor and wall applications, even in severe operating conditions such as pools, spas, and other wet areas.
If you have a question about glass tile installation in a pool or other application, contact our expert technical team at support@maisonmosaics.com
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