Consult with your tile dealer to get the best adhesive for your tile and substrate. For installing ceramic or stone floor tile, latex-reinforced thinset mortar is usually the best choice. It comes in powdered form; you must mix it in small batches on the job and use it within about half an hour.
Latex reinforcement adds strength and a bit of flexibility to the thinset; without it, the thinset can crack easily. Some thinset comes with a powdered latex in the mix; just add water. A second variety requires the addition of a liquid latex additive rather than water. The second type, with the liquid latex, is stronger.
Epoxy thinset is an expensive adhesive with three parts that are mixed on the job. Use it in situations where extra sticking strength is needed.
Two products on the market advertise themselves as work-saving innovations. The first, ready-mixed floor tile adhesive, is a pre-mixed organic mastic that is said to save work and mess compared to thinset. Many homeowners have reported success with this product. Be aware, however, that it costs more and is not as strong as thinset mortar.
The second is an "all in one" product that acts as both adhesive and grout; the idea is that you can set the tiles and grout the joints in one fell swoop. Unfortunately, using this material will leave you with grout lines that are more porous and difficult to clean than standard grout.
Complete Tile
Start approaching all kinds of indoor and outdoor tile projects with complete confidence. Includes complete installation requirements with over 150 step-by-step photos of floor, wall, tub shower, fireplace, countertop, and outdoor tile installations.
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