Thinset For Marble Backsplash

It s so fun to mix tile of different textures and sizes in a kitchen as it gives the room much more visual depth says prudence c.

Thinset for marble backsplash.

Thinset typically comes in two colors. Most marble tiles are between 3 8 and inch thick. If you use dark grout use gray. Gradually add the thin set powder mixing it thoroughly.

Sand the backsplash wall with 80 grit sandpaper. White and dark gray. Thinset is the only product that i recommend be used in showers bathrooms and even floors. Apply the mastic or thinset mortar.

Examine the tiles for thickness and color. Let the mixture stand for 5 to 10 minutes then mix it again without adding more water. What type of thinset to use when installing marble tile step 1. Ultimately mastic and thinset each come with different considerations when embarking on a backsplash project.

If you want light grout use white thinset. Thinset is also heatproof so it will not lose its grip in hot environments. Choose a thinset type according to the tile thickness. Use a quick setting thinset adhesive for thinner tiles so.

When you re finished mixing you ll have a limited time to use it. Another advantage of thinset is that it allows you to level uneven surfaces to some degree. Thinset is much stronger structurally than mastic and a waterproof product that will not lose strength when exposed to water. Orbital sander or sandpaper razor blade or scissors v notched trowel wooden stir stick spirit level tape measure wet tile saw dust mask and eye protection soft cotton rags and paper towels vacuum cleaner or tack cloth grouting sponge pencil acrylic caulk and caulking gun.

Bailey founder and principal designer of prudence home design in this kitchen she used 4x8 subway tiles to give the illusion of a bigger space and then added 1x3 carrara marble tiles in a herringbone pattern for the backsplash. Because it is cementitious thinset is dimensionally stable it will not shrink or contract. Wipe away the sanding dust with a. Thinset is much harder to work with especially on vertical and overhead surfaces because it s not as sticky as mastic.

For the do it yourself consumers who have never worked with thin set the appeal of mastic is all the more attractive. If you re working in a bathroom it is wise to go with thinset as it doesn t allow for mold growth and isn t susceptible to water damage whereas mastic is. You should decide on your grout color prior to tiling. For the professional tile contractor and the do it yourself consumer alike the temptation to use mastic instead of thinset for back splash tile installation is appealing.

Both thinset and tile mastic will adhere better to a roughened surface.