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.
What is the difference between modified and unmodified thinset?
- Always add the dry thinset mix to the water — not the other way around.
- Use a drill fitted with a mixing paddle to mix the thinset.
- Mix the thinset as if you’re mixing batter. ...
- Only make enough thinset that you can use within 20-30 minutes. ...
- To test if the thinset is still viable to use, test it with your finger. ...
When to use modified or unmodified thinset?
Unmodified Thinsets – A User’s Guide
- Laticrete: Laticrete 272 is considered the premium (best) – then Laticrete 317. ...
- Mapei: Kerabond: This is considered Mapei’s premium unmodified thinset. ...
- Tec: Sturdi-Set: Tec’s premium unmodified. ...
- Bostik (Hydroment): Ditra-Set: This is the best product with which to set anything over kerdi or ditra – it was specifically manufactured for that purpose.
What is the difference between modified and unmodified mortar?
There are definitely several things to consider, such as:
- Workability
- Durability
- Versatility
- Cost
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. How do I choose the right thinset? Can you use thinset for a shower base?
Should I use modified or unmodified thinset?
Therefore, it's best to use unmodified thinset when working with an impervious installation membrane like Prodeso for installing radiant floor heating. It's important to note that latex-modified thinset can still be used between the membrane and the subfloor because it is not impervious.
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 is the difference between modified mortar and unmodified mortar?
What is the difference between modified and unmodified thin-set mortar? Dry-set mortar is comprised mostly of cement, sand, and a water retention agent, and is also called unmodified mortar. Modified mortar contains a polymer which can improve the bond strength and add other properties.
How do I know if Thinset is modified or unmodified?
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 thinset do I use with KERDI?
Schluter SET™, ALL-SET™, FAST-SET™ or an unmodified thin-set mortar must be used to construct all KERDI seams to ensure watertightperformance of the system.
Why does KERDI use unmodified thinset?
Portland cement-based unmodified thin-set mortars are dependent on the presence of moisture for hydration in order to gain strength. Since KERDI 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.
What thinset do I use for shower walls?
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.
Can I use unmodified thinset on drywall?
Thinset adheres to Sheetrock as well as any other surface, but you need to consider the purpose of the area when installing tile. Ceramic, porcelain and rock tiles add beauty and functionality to many areas of the home and give homeowners many design options. Thinset comes in two colors, white and gray.
How do I choose the right thinset?
0:252:18Choosing the Right Mortar for Tile Setting - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd the type of the tile help to determine what mortar is best. If you are installing porcelain orMoreAnd the type of the tile help to determine what mortar is best. If you are installing porcelain or ceramic tile that's smaller than 15 inches on all sides.
Can I use regular thinset for porcelain tile?
ANSWER. ANSWER - Porcelain Tile should be installed with a latex modified thin-set or a polymer modified thin-set. The Custom Marble Granite Mortar I believe is a polymer modified thin-set. For larger tiles 12x12 or larger should use a 1/4" sq.
What mortar do you use under a cement board?
Use thin-set mortar when installing cement backer board. Thin-set dries slowly, allowing you to fix and readjust backer board sheets as needed. The ingredients in thin-set mortar ingredients are cement, fine sand and a water retaining agent. It's used to bond ceramic or porcelain tile and cement backer board.
Should I use mortar or thinset?
Both grout and mortar are essential materials for tile installation, but they serve different purposes. People tend to get them confused, or even think that they're the same thing. Thinset mortar is used to adhere tiles to a surface, while grout is designed to fill the spaces between tiles once they've been installed.
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.
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.
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 need air?
Modified thinset requires air in order to cure properly, and it’s important to allow for thorough curing time. Once the material has had enough time to cure, you’ll be rewarded with a long-lasting, solid, durable bond between tile and backer board or concrete.
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.
What is modified thinset?
- A modified thinset is a thinset that has either polymers added to the powder during manufacturing, or an unmodified thinset that is mixed with a liquid polymer on the job site just before it is to be used . Modified thinset is the most widely used mortar these days and is recommended for most applications and types of tile. Modified thinsets also add an adhesive quality to the bonding mechanism, as well as flexibility, enhancing the strength of the tile assembly. So modified thinset is used to install porcelain tiles on all kinds of substrates that call for a modified thinset.
What is thinset mortar?
Thinset is a type of adhesive mortar often used to affix stone or til e to various surfaces. It’s basically a mixture of sand, and cement and other compounds to facilitate the hydration process. Thinset is the “Glue” that bonds the tile to the surface to which it is applied, and it does this by growing crystals as it dries and cures. The crystals interlock and penetrate into the surface of the tile and the substrate, bonding it all together. The longer the thinset is able to grow crystals the strong the bond and the strength of the thinset. You might use thinset to install tile flooring in your home, or you may apply it outside if you’re creating an eye-catching tile design along the edge of a pool or as a decorative mosaic.
What is a Sturdi set?
Sturdi Set is Tec’s premium unmodified thinset. It is a great option alongside with Laticrete or Bostik Ditra Set. A lower quality yet still reliable option is Tec’s mid range unmodified Full-Set Plus. But again, it may be a better idea to go for the premium.
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.
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.
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.
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 is latex/polymer modified mortar?
The TCNA describes latex/polymer-modified mortar as a mixture of Portland cement, sand, and special latex/polymer additives and says it also is used as a bond coat for setting tile. The TCNA doesn’t list or describe the types of tile that latex/polymer-modified mortar is most suitable for, but it does say that the latex additives in thin-bed Portland-cement mortars are designed to improve adhesion, reduce water absorption, and provide greater bond strength and resistance to shock and impact. It goes on to say that these additives also allow some latitude in time, working conditions, and temperatures during tile installation.
Can you use modified thinset on tile?
So here’s the million-dollar question: Will it be a disaster if I use the wrong thinset (latex modified) on top of an uncoupling membrane? The answer is no, but it is much better to use dry-set mortar as recommended by the tile manufacturer to maintain the warranty. The bond would still be there, but because the latex slows down the hydration process, the modified thinset does not set up as readily as the dry-set mortar. Using dry-set mortar also avoids other minor problems, such as latex leaching into grout joints in wet areas, or the need to wait before grouting or walking on the tile.
Can you use both thinset and uncoupling membranes?
With some uncoupling membranes, you may actually need to use both types of thinset if you are going over a plywood substrate. The membrane bonds to the plywood with latex-modified thinset, and then the tile beds to the membrane with dry-set mortar—different mortar on each side of the membrane. And be aware that the installation process may be different for different types of membrane, so manufacturers’ requirements have to be followed for the product to be warrantied.
Is TCNA a good resource?
The TCNA is also a good resource . The TCNA Handbook is the best all-around reference for all types of tile information, and the TCNA has technicians on hand who can help you choose the right thinset. Exceptions for membranes. So far we’ve talked about thinset choices for types of tile and for different substrates.
Can you use thinset on glass tile?
It can make a big difference which type of thinset is used with each product. Manufacturers of specialty products like glass tile almost always specify the type of mortar to be used. Even some natural stone tiles require a specific type of mortar, and installers should not take those recommendations lightly. The formulation of today’s tile is just too complex, so instructions must be followed exactly.
Can you use dry set mortar over plywood?
If we used dry-set mortar over plywood, the bond between the tile and the plywood substrate usually failed within a year. This was the thinset rule of thumb for many years. In the last few decades, new types of tile have been gaining popularity, and many require different formulations of thinset for proper adhesion.
Does a tile manufacturer recommend a specific type of thinset?
The manufacturer knows its products, and more importantly, it warranties its products only when they’re installed according to its recommendations. If the tile manufacturer doesn’t recommend or require a specific type of thinset, then go by what the thinset maker recommends for the type of tile you’re installing.
What is 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.
Can you use modified thinset on Kerdi?
One may also ask, can I 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. Schluter's recommendation is to use unmodified thinset mortar when installing Kerdi over most shower substrates.