Everything You Need to Know About Thinset

What in the world is thinset?

If you’ve had the pleasure of renovating a space, thinset has likely been brought up. However, you may not know what it is, how one would use it, or even why its used!

We’re here to help cover topics such as:

• What is thinset?
• What is the purpose of thinset?
• Should I use thinset?
• What are types of thinset?
• What thinset should I use for LIVDEN tiles?
• How do you prep thinset?

What is thinset?

Put simply, thinset is a tile mortar adhesive used for tile installation. It’s a mix of cement, silica sand, and water retaining agents, specifically designed to provide a superior bond. Thinset is typically smooth and creamy, much like mud or toothpaste, and, during installation, is applied to the base surface (like a wall or floor) where the final installation will be. Once the tiles are laid on top of the thinset, it forms a strong bond with the tile and works to securely lock the installation in place.

Thinset is meant to be spread easily across wide surfaces to ensure full contact and coverage of adhesive from the surface to the tile. As the name implies, thinset is thinner than other mortars, for ease of application and consistent thickness of adhesive.  Other adhesive options might be thicker, such as medium bed mortars, best used for larger format tile. It’s best to find the right fit for the job, and for our 12x12 tile, thinset is a great fit!

What is the purpose of thinset?

In addition to creating a superior bond, it also adds key benefits to your space, such as being:

• Heatproof
• Moisture resistant
• Mold proof
• Stable

With these characteristics, thinsets keep your tile installations strong in both hot and wet environments like:

• Shower walls
• Bathtub surrounds
• Kitchen backsplashes
• Accent walls

Should I use thinset?

Thinset is the ideal adhesive for tile installations because of its consistency, durability, and stability. Unlike grout, thinset is hidden behind the tile and should not be visible by the time you finish a project. It is widely available at home improvement stores everywhere!

What are the different types of thinset?

Modified

Modified thinset has polymers such as acrylic and latex added to the composition for stronger bonds, making your tile adhere better to the subfloor. Some modified thinset may have chemical resistant agents added as well, reducing the potential for absorbing moisture compared to unmodified thinset.

Unmodified

Unmodified is the simplest form of thinset with only three ingredients: cement, silica sand, and water-retaining agents. People sometimes use this type if they’re working with a moisture barrier, like a schulter system.

Large Format Tile Mortars

Also known as a medium bed mortar, this is typically only used on tiles 15” and larger to reduce shrinkage during the curing process, and to bond the tile without “lippage” (an uneven surface).

Glass Tile Mortar

This is a white, latex-additive thinset mortar used exclusively for glass tile. The color of the thinset is visible through glass tile to function as a neutral base. NOT recommended for LIVDEN tiles.

Fast Drying Thinset

This thinset is designed with a faster cure rate to get you to the grouting stage sooner than other standard products. A Rapid Set thinset is the most recommended for LIVDEN tiles!

Epoxy Mortar

Epoxy thinset is meant for harsher environments, such as commercial kitchens or garages. This thinset has strong chemical resistance to high-fume areas. It is typically used on epoxy terrazzo tiles.

Mastic

This is a tackier, gluey ceramic tile adhesive. It is not meant for larger tiles or high-moisture areas like showers or bathrooms. NOT recommended for LIVDEN tiles.

What thinset should I use for LIVDEN tiles?

Wondering which adhesives are best for LIVDEN tiles?

We’re here to help! Typically, we recommend a white, rapid set thinset for our various Porcelain and Terrazzo tiles!

Find our list of thinset recommendations below.

Laticrete

Tried and True, Laticrete products are top of the line. Here are the Laticrete adhesives we recommend with our tiles: