Setting Materials

Q: I have heard silica dust (a common ingredient in mortar) is a hazard, as a contractor I am concerned with maintaining a healthy work environment. What do you recommend?

Laticrete’s Multimax Lite is silica dust free!

Q: I am installing ceramic tile for my new kitchen backsplash; can I use mastic?

Yes, you can use mastic to set ceramic tiles, it is not fully water resistant however. If your backsplash is going behind the sink, modified thinset may be a better option. It has a higher resistance to water than mastic, lowering the chances of water seeping into the joints.

Q: We are in the process of building a house on the lake in Cazenovia and are looking to use large porcelain tiles on an accent wall. What setting material is our best option?

Large format tiles can be intimidating, they are tricky to handle, heavy and delicate-finding a skilled contractor will be your first task! For your setting material, non-sag mortar is a must. It is formulated to hold heavy tiles and stone, preventing them from slipping or sagging as they cure. Modified mortars such as Laticrete Tri-lite and Multimax Lite are both premium non-sag mortars used specifically for holding up heavy tiles and stone.

Essential underlayment’s and bonding agents, making your tiles stuck like glue

Mortar, thinset, mastic, adhesive and grout are all types of setting materials used to bond and seal tiles to surfaces.
Specific setting materials are selected based on the type material being installed, location and its size.
Thinset is commonly used to bond tiles ceramic, porcelain and stone tiles to surfaces like concrete, cement board, or walls. This forms a strong, thin layer that provides structural support. Need help deciding which one is best for your project? Stop in and ask one of our professionals today.
When building a shower, the waterproofing method you select will determine which setting material is needed. Installing tiles over a Schluter system for example? The nature of the waterproofing membranes requires Schluter All-Set to be used. This polymer-modified thinset will cure in the anerobic environment created between the sub layers, waterproofing layers and tile.
Mastic is a premixed and convenient solution to set tiles. It can only be used with ceramic or smaller sized porcelain tiles being installed in a dry environment. It is a great product for a novice, DIY installer looking for a simplified installation.
Glass tiles, being completely non-porous, must be installed with a specialized adhesive. Standard mastic or thinset will not create the proper bond causing tiles to pop off over time.

Frequently Asked Questions about Setting Materials

What is the difference between thinset and grout? When do I use them during the installation process?

Thinset is a cement-based adhesive (often called mortar) used to bond tiles to the surface beneath them. It’s applied first to secure the tiles in place. Grout, is used after the tiles have set. It fills the joints or spaces between the tiles, locking them together and creating a finished appearance.

I have heard silica dust (a common ingredient in mortar) is a hazard, as a contractor I am concerned with maintaining a healthy work environment. What do you recommend?

I am installing ceramic tile for my new kitchen backsplash; can I use mastic?

We are in the process of building a house on the lake in Cazenovia and are looking to use large porcelain tiles on an accent wall. What setting material is our best option?