🤔 Thinset explained. What type to pick for your tile installation.

[@alexmarz239]

Damn sal, your office is paneling? I would expect you to have some exotic Italian stone layed in a crazy fashion all over your house. Lol

[@justlooking4771]

It's always easier to work on someone else's house lol!

[@lionelpostwartrains]

Thank you for your dedication to teach others in the tile industry. You have valuable knowledge which you share with others. Thanks for helping us all out. Keep the videos coming Sal.

[@SalDiBlasi]

Thanks👍😊

[@mlhscanada1069]

Hi Sal, what thinset for tile to ditra? Mod on unmod? Tile is ceramic

[@skipmagil]

this guy need to articulate betta,slow down. cant understnd alot of words cuz am half deaf,the captions make his words even worse, i get plance for flange

[@friendlyneighborhoodtileguy]

Great video Sal. We use A118.1 mortar typically (Schluter Set). Unless we’re setting Ditra over wood, then we use A118.11 mortar (Schluter All Set). As long as our coverage is good the non modified doesn’t bother me.

[@SalDiBlasi]

Agreed, however recently I have switched to allset, seems to have a better workability, Schluterset is still a great choice.

[@jandrol4527]

Hi ,i have question ,so if i use versabond LFT or similar say modified mortar on top the schulter is going fail? What is the best thinset for use on schulter or other waterproof membrane? Than you

[@robertpardy2926]

Thanks! Very informative.

[@rvd2960]

Hello Sal, What thinset would you recommend for 12 x 24 ceramic tile over wonder board cement boards? I have purchased the schluter all set. Would that work? Thanks in advance!

[@SalDiBlasi]

yes, that will work fine.

[@giuseppemare]

Also when you are mixing the mortar to install uncoupling membrane you mix it loose to get it to full absorb into the cotton backing. Sal taught me that. In this case you add the maximum water recommended on the bag right Sal? Great videos and amazing tile work! Totally enjoy your work!

[@SalDiBlasi]

Correct, everything you need to know is on the bag, all you have to do is read it.

[@jasonkaminski6230]

thank you for sharing your knowledge! would love to know your opinion/experience with pre-mixed thinset! despite the extra cost, it seems like a very tempting option & time-saver, but i've heard horror stories!

[@SalDiBlasi]

It's mastic, and is garbage.

[@kilipoheikekanilehua4049]

Thanks for the video Sal, I'm doing my first tile project in a house we're building in Hawaii. I'm not sure I'm less confused about what to use where but I'm reinforced to read the product information. And installation guides before choosing a product. That is again, and if you want to come to the big island to consult let me know (I still want to do the work)

[@SalDiBlasi]

I might be coming that way next year some time, no work allowed though😊

[@oddopops1327]

👍👍😉

[@toddsandor6742]

Hi Sal. I have OSB plywood subfloor that was painted (don't ask why...), I tried to sand it down with a belt sander but it is not getting it all off, it is very difficult as well. Is there a primer product you would recommend to use? or a particular type of thin-set to use to it will "bind" to the OSB subfloor?

[@SalDiBlasi]

Talk to a manufacturer Tec support, they will point you in the right direction.

[@saadlaouaouda2071]

Thank you so very much, god bless you sir, may God grant you eternal rewards for your knowledge that will spread from generation to the next.

[@SalDiBlasi]

😊👍

[@tommywalker5348]

hello sal just wanted u to know I really look forward to seeing you post videos of tile projects and enjoy your craftsmanship in doing so👍

[@shawnjakan7431]

Hello Not in this video but another video you spoke of not using a poor unmodified thinset as I do my basement floor over Ditra. So i get we dont want to get the lowest priced item from Store. But what about the uncoupling membrane mortar made for LOWES? In other video you said to get a high quality unmodified mortar. So is the Mapai Uncoupling Membrane mortar a high quality or somewhere in the middle or is it a poor quality unmodified thinset. I realize I could just get Schluter allset and problem solved. But I would like to save some money as Im on the floor. Thanks for great videos. I love the shorts too. Im happy with my bathroom. Now for the basement floor.

[@SalDiBlasi]

Mapei makes good mortars.

[@robertgioia6637]

What is the best thinset for no sag???

[@rogerevans5040]

You ramble fae too much. Write a script and get to the points and be efficient about it

[@SalDiBlasi]

You can always choose to scroll on.

[@73er-xy3ky]

Great explanation SAL !! I had 3questions.. ! what's the best unmodified Thinset to use for installing tile over ditra XL? Also what type of thinset should be used between porcelain or ceramic tile and Kerdi board? I'm assuming unmodified as well? and what's your thoughts ion schluter ALL SET have you use it much ? thanks for your time and consideration

[@suzanneseale9543]

shorter please. Good info but hard to get the points I need.

[@shivgohil1972]

Pay attention

[@williamkennedyii6465]

Thin set to plastic track

[@ladycinnamon86]

Hey Sal, What mortor should I use on a 12x12 marble mosaic tile...it's white arabesque color and I dont want it to turn grey...also what sealer should I use..thank you In Advance.

[@brianglade848]

Thin set???.....we got a guy at work that uses "tin snips".....no wonder the tiles crack

[@shawnanderson3650]

Sal, what type of thinset would you recommend when using porcelain tile (6”X 36”) tiles 1/16” grout line on top of hardi backer board? Using a 1/2” X 1/2” trowel

[@SalDiBlasi]

Any polymer modified thinset that is labeled LFT or LHT Like Mapei Ultraflex LFT, or Ardex X77 Laticrete Tri-Lite there are so many to choose from, read the label and see if it is good for big tiles. There are also a lot of light weight mortars, like the Ardex x77 that I mentioned that work really well with large tiles, creamy, easy to spread no sag and all that good stuff, all the manufacturers have several options.

[@shawnanderson3650]

Sal DiBlasi thank you for your feedback. I have been working on a living room with wood look tile and using premixed mortar (salesmen recommendation) and no matter what even after I lay a tile or 2 there seems to be a flex in the tile as if there is air trapped. I feel like the mortar is too thick or something. Had to tear it up... I guess going to try what you recommend.

[@SalDiBlasi]

@@shawnanderson3650 Pre mixed mortar is mastic, should never be used for large tiles or in a wet area, better still, they should stop selling it, it is garbage. Very limited uses.

[@MrRomirome]

@@SalDiBlasi I used pre mortar in my shower...I didn't know much about tiles that was my 1st tiling a bathroom...and that was done in 2012...no problems still holding

[@terryhenry9385]

Great information, i learned alot

[@michaellovetere8033]

Thank you for educating us novices to get a better professional tile job completed. people in Boston are very fortunate to have you as a tile contractor.

[@SalDiBlasi]

😊👍

[@khereti]

What type of thinset should I use for 6" x 12" marble tiles on concrete floor? I watched the video but I'm still not confident. I was going to get MAPEI Ultraflex but it's not available for me to order/pickup. Also, should I use a 1/4" trowel?

[@SalDiBlasi]

1/4x3/8x1/4 trowel probably better amzn.to/3bnKoj8 as far as thinset any regular modified mortar will work similar to the Ultraflex like laticrete 253 gold or better, ardex X5 so many available.

[@khereti]

@@SalDiBlasi Thank you for your answer!!! I will follow your advise. Love your channel!!!

[@theelectricchef69]

Great video Sal! I’ve learned so much from your videos. Thanks for sharing your knowledge!

[@SalDiBlasi]

Glad to help

[@ajaxwargod8229]

Hi Sal I am installing a 6x12 Spanish marble on my Countertops in my kitchen. Over cement board. What do you recommend as a good Thinset? Thanks

[@tonyp9609]

Sal, Question, what is the easiest way to put mosaics overhead on the ceiling? Should I thin-set them to a mat first so they don't flex all over the place? Thanks

[@alexgrubb6640]

Schluter All set is ANSI 118.15 as well as Mapei's Ultralite is 118.15. Does that mean they are comparable? Im planning of using the Ultralite to set my porcelain over the Ditra mat instead of using an un modified

[@kathybuscall3359]

Would I use an unmodified thinset over compressed fibre board ( not cement board) I will be using an uncoupling membrane

[@ashleysayss]

I heard you accent in the first 3 seconds and immediately knew you were from MA, most likely from Boston! I’m not from Boston but I am born and raised in MA like 40min south of the split! Thanks for the video! It was really helpful!

[@jimgraham4355]

Can you use a modified A118.11 on shower floor? what about over USG waterproof liquid?

[@giovannitidona658]

Hi Sal I'm staring a job soon its on OBS If there's low spots can I use Mapie , primer plus Mapie self leveler and Chaulk in joints between sheets ,I'm going to use Ditra mat , and di I need blocking between sheets thanks

[@adambrown5117]

Hi I’m installing Ditra over concrete slab (unmodified) and 12x24 porcelain tile over that. I’m trying to figure out best tho set for under tile ???

[@nora-ub9yi]

Sal I’ve been following all of your recommendations on my tub surround remodel thank you so much. I used hardie backer board and sealed the seams with simple set mortar and cement board tape. I am ready to install SCHLUTER KERDI-SEAL PIPE SEAL 3/4IN fiber cloth and I am wondering what thin-set to use to apply this and for the tile install. I am using 4x4 tile. I know you are a busy man and I thank you for your time.

[@dblo01]

"Improved Polymer Mortar..... What does that mean? Well it's improved.. It's Better" hahaha. love it 13:40

[@katoom-ju6vo]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge and expertise with us Sal. I was hoping you may be able to weigh in on an issue i'm having though. I'm gearing up to do a DIY install of 12 x 24 porcelain tile over Ditra on my concrete basement floor. According to Shluters instructions, I need to use an unmodified thinset between the concrete and the Ditra and also between the Ditra and the porcelain tile. Here is my dilemma. My unmodified thinset instructions (Laticrete 317) say that a latex additive is required when using it for porcelain tile which now makes my unmodified into a modified thinset. The Shluters instructions also says that its "ok" to use unmodified thinset with porcelain tile which is in conflict with my thinset instructions. I'm in full agreement with you as far as always read the bag and follow the manufactures instructions, but the conflicting information between products in this case has me a bit puzzled and not confident in moving forward with the project. Any insight would be appreciated. Thank you in advance.

[@SalDiBlasi]

That is an issue that has long befuddled many installers. The 317 is an ANSI A118.1 mortar, unmodified, and can be used as schluter says without the additive. The thinset will adhere to the porcelain tile without the additive, because of he extended curing time. I have used it many times. However that problem has been rendered irrelevant, advancements in Dry Set Mortar technology have made it possible to use newer modified mortars for setting the tile on Ditra. That is why you can use Schluter AllSet which is an ANSI A118.15 mortar to both install the Ditra and Set the tile. Mapei and Laticrete have a list of Modified mortars that can be use to set tile on uncoupling mats. The 317 is an older adhesive, and the additive is also an older technology but still very useful, and relevant in some situations.

[@tonykillingsworth9247]

@@SalDiBlasi HI Sal thank you for clearing that up ... love your work ...Great inspiration !!!

[@colinnicols5387]

Seems being an older video, he doesnt have time to monitor for more recent questions

[@Fannypvckk]

Thank for the info. I’m about to do my first tile job in my bathroom and I’ve learned a lot from your videos. I am nervous that I buy the right products. I’m going with 24x48 porcelain over backer board. Would I be able to use the same thin set for my cement board to plywood and the porcelain to cement board? I’m guessing a modified?

[@dilligaf2386]

Can I put a join it detra in the doorway as i want my tiles to flow from my kitchen through to my hallway. Great video

[@dblo01]

Sooo. What do we use on that green liquid applied waterproofing stuff?

[@Trucker-Belly]

Im going over ditra heat and nobody caries an unmodified mortar so I grabbed some versabond LFT bc it says its good for porcelain. I hope it was a good choice!

[@alexgrubb6640]

Im going to share this video with my local tile shop, they don't know this information. Thankyou Very much Sal

[@bockenfels2021]

Sal Thank You.

[@SalDiBlasi]

Thanks for watching my video.

[@Pure3nrg]

What mortar do you use to bond Kerdi to OSB? What mortar do you use over kerdi for 12x12?

[@Juliengatti]

Have you worked with Mapei Kerabond T + Keralastic ?

[@damianvazquez8878]

Thank you for teaching you are Pilar in the industry

[@shawnjakan7431]

hello All Can someone tell me whats difference between Mapai ULTRAFLEX LFT and Mapai Large Wall and Floor Thinsets. Thanks for the wonderful helpful videos SAL I originally thought it was different names for same product at different stores. As I do more work on my bathroom I see they are different.

[@SalDiBlasi]

Download the TDS sheets for both and compare the specs. You are correct they are not the same, one is made for tile suppliers the other for box stores.

[@ashsqx3246]

I'm doing tile on tile, if my substrate is mapete primer over previous tile, what type of mortar thin set do I use to put new layer of ceramic 10cm square tiles on top? Please suggest

[@KoalaHugsGoatSharks]

Professor Sal! Thank you

[@SalDiBlasi]

My pleasure!

[@JohnHenry2420]

You should ad a link for hearing aids so people can hear what your saying.

[@brianglade848]

Hi Sal, great video, bit is it proper to call it thin-set....or tinsnips....we work a guy what always says can you mix me a little more tinsnips

[@nicko71]

I got it and it's simple any Cadillac is better from Dodge neon. 🤣

[@btomas225]

Sal, you are absolutely the best KZbin source regarding tile and installation of tile. There are others in your KZbin community of tile installers that give some good advice, others share experiences to disseminate 'good practice' and some pitfalls in order that one might prevent the same, however some others are ego driven and don't follow directions or ANSI standards and remarkably proclaim themselves to be on the leading edge of it all (I think you know who I'm talking about), but it's refreshing to come across someone that really knows their 'stuff' and it shows in the end product. You do some absolutely beautiful work....

[@SalDiBlasi]

Thanks, and yes I do know who you are talking about.😂

[@oneundecided]

Thank you for this video, I am just learning it. I want to install the mesh on the plywood before I install the tiles on it. What mortar do I use for that - fortified or non-modified mortar? Then what mortar do I use to install the tiles on top of the mesh with the mortar set - fortified or non-modified mortar?

[@berklyjr7713]

I love how you try to keep it simple but you really can't. It's been your life and you explained so much only because I been watching you and other channels for 2 days. I been carpenter for 25 years and I understand explaining then stopping because I'm talking to myself basically lol. Love your videos I have learned so much but I might need an interpreter 🤣🤣🤣

[@SalDiBlasi]

Sometimes we forget industry terms are not common vernacular.

[@johnlennon2163]

Can you layer modified thinset to fill voids? If so how do you need to wait between coats (layers).

[@kallenyc]

Hi Sal, I'm going to do my own bathroom tiling project on the floor and walls (porcelain tile on the floor and concrete floor, walls are still TBD). After seeing your video, I looked at the thinset I bought on sale at Home Depot and it's unmodified and only good for ceramic tile. Back to the store it goes! Thankfully, I hadn't opened it and am keeping all receipts organized. It sounds like a modified ANSI 118.15 thinset would be best. I'll check out the Mapei LFT (did not even know LFT stands for Large Format Tile until watching your video) and others at my local tile store. I'm guessing I might need a membrane of some sort, too, and maybe to level the floor first but I'm getting to those vids. My bldg is a high rise built in 2020 in San Francisco and earthquakes def need to be factored into the equation! Thank you for all your informative videos!!!

[@SalDiBlasi]

Sounds like you have it under control, good luck.

[@SmittyFan]

Question. (Slab floor) Tile manufacturer for 2 inch 6mm thick mosaic hexagon for shower floor, says to use premium un modified white thinset. Redgard says to use polymer modified mortar. Which one should I use?

[@SalDiBlasi]

On a liquid applied membrane use a modified thinset.

[@SmittyFan]

Sal DiBlasi Thankyou kindly. Love the videos.

[@sevendust07660]

Sal, you are a wealth of knowledge. Thank you for sharing your wisdom.

[@SalDiBlasi]

Very welcome

[@rossm9438]

Can you explain the logic why Schluter is the only water proofing system that modified thin-sets are not recommended? What makes it work with all the other manufacturers but not them?

[@SalDiBlasi]

Since this video was done, there have been several advancements in thinset technology, this is no longer an issue with most newer modified thinsets. Schluter also makes its own thinset now A modified A118.15 AllSet and an unmodified A118.1 Set

[@johnal4560]

Hi Sal Would I be able to use the Schluter all set thin set on hardiebacker board on the wall with out using any of other Schluter product with 24x12 Porcelain Tile thanks

[@SalDiBlasi]

AllSet is an ANSI A118.15 Mortar, it can be used for most applications regardless of schluter products being used.

[@RyanRusich]

Hi Sal, I purchased LFT mortar for a backsplash job using 2”x9”x1/4” tile. Is LFT okay to mix for a backsplash? Great videos! Thank you.

[@SalDiBlasi]

Yes read the label, it will have mixing instructions for both LFT and regular mortar mixes. Basically you add a bit more water to make it a bit creamier.

[@paradoxdea]

Thank you for your fantastic knowledge on the tile and tile materials. You're helping me plenty!!

[@SalDiBlasi]

Glad to help

[@jayakrawe8339]

Hello, thank you for the great video. I just have a question where can an unmodified thinest be found because I have been to many lowes and Home Depot none of them carry any.

[@SalDiBlasi]

Try a tile supplier, box stores have limited selections.

[@kjmurphy1s]

excellent and in-depth explanation. thanks

[@jcmase72]

You right on when you make the point to spend a little more for the better thinset, leave no doubt. Not all natural stone should use white thinset, there's only a few that's a must.

[@bc.oO0Oo.]

Good man Sal thank you

[@fredericklegrande4564]

Sal you are a Legend and Super Hero

[@SeattleLSB]

Would you suggest LFT for 6x16 ceramic? Or is Schulster All Set fine?

[@SalDiBlasi]

Schluter allset is an LFT mortar

[@eduardodedios8213]

So what thinset is best for thin brick venere on rock board for exterior? I’m more confused now

[@SalDiBlasi]

Se what the thin brick manufacturer recommends, then use that.

[@elonmust7470]

Tiling for as long as I've been alive.. Thank you a ton for sharing!

[@SalDiBlasi]

No worries!

[@brihoover74]

Hi Sal. Thanks for the video. Question for you. I have an upcoming bathroom remodel (I’m attempting DIY, I’m not a contractor of any kind) and I’d like to put in a tile shower. I’m looking into the Schluter board for a backer. I know it requires an unmodified thin-set to adhere the bands and corners to seal it up. My question is what kind of thin-set is supposed to be used to adhere the tile to the Kerdi board? Modified, or unmodified?

[@jonesjones7057]

Unmodified. Check out the schluter videos on KZbin. They have videos for every part of your installation.

[@ls1n642]

I have hardy cement board and aquadefense, and 8x8 porcelain shower wall tiles. Do I need modified or unmodified?? I was leaning towards unmodified , once I’ve read it doesn’t need the drying time like the modified does.

[@SalDiBlasi]

Modified

[@ls1n642]

@@SalDiBlasi How much drying time will it need, given the aqua defense wing used and the porcelain tile, before it can be used? Thanks for the reply and your time 👍🏼

[@gregtaranto]

I watched your wet shim video. Good stuff! Can I use Kerabond unmodified to wet shim my kerdi board?

[@SalDiBlasi]

no, must be modified.

[@jamesmcbride2929]

Hi Sal, sorry for another question... Is the Schluter All-Set used for water-proofing, laying most tiles to most substrates, adhering uncoupling membrane and adhering Schluter foam shower bases on plywood, concrete and other substrates?

[@SalDiBlasi]

Like it says "Allset" more specifically it is an ANSI A118.15 dry set mortar it is the highest grade of modified mortar. this might help kzbin.info/www/bejne/iWmTeImdab5ng7c

[@jamesmcbride2929]

Could you put the thin-sets and grouts you are using in each video for tile, uncoupling membrane and waterproofing please. I think that would give someone a better idea of what they could use if their job is very similar to yours.

[@ramialshobaki]

what kind of thinset should I use to warp a metal pizza oven ?

[@SalDiBlasi]

Epoxy

[@robertcaldwell4247]

I'm doing 12×24 porcelain tiles over durorock that has been sealed with tec hydroflex in my shower. Which thinset should I use?

[@SalDiBlasi]

Use a modified thinset designed for large and heavy tiles.

[@robertcaldwell4247]

@@SalDiBlasi thank you sal

[@mr.c3928]

Thank you Mr. Deblasi!

[@mr.c3928]

*DiBlasi

[@johnbuttner5698]

Thanks! Very helpful information.

[@SalDiBlasi]

Glad it was helpful!

[@KJ_nyc]

Hi Sal, thank you for sharing your expertise. I live in a 1960 high-rise, where my walls are all plaster. My kitchen walls are primed with Iron Clad, an old oil-based primer from Benjamin Moore. The backsplash is square and plumb, and I want to tile it. My tiles are 2" x 2" American Olean ceramic on 12" x 24" meshed sheets. My local tile supplier, who knows my building, recommended a Polymer Modified Thinset Mortar that is manufactured in NYC. Sadly, Covid ended both businesses, and now I need another mortar recommendation. The Schluter All-Set looks interesting, but I don't need Ditra or Kerdi. I'd like a mortar that is easy to work with and gives me plenty of work time. Can you recommend something for my plaster walls? Thank you.

[@SalDiBlasi]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/lYCclYhmf6ycgrM

[@KJ_nyc]

@@SalDiBlasi Thank you, Sal, for responding. However, the link you provided is a newer edited version of this same 3-year-old video, which I already watched from beginning to end. I totally understand the details. My father was in construction. In both videos, you do not mention plaster walls or tiles that are attached to meshed sheets. Since you are in the Boston area, I assumed your business has some experience tiling in older apartment buildings that do not have plywood or drywall substrates, and have only plaster substrates. So I was looking for expertise in the plaster substrate arena, and I was wondering if Schluter All-Set could be used without the Ditra or Kerdi? Judging by their videos, the All-Set looks like a product that I might enjoy working with, accept they claim it is specifically designed to work with Ditra and Kerdi. If you can't or won't recommend a specific mortar for my application, I will do more research.

[@SalDiBlasi]

Allset is an A118.15T mortar, any mortar with that rating has the same properties. I favor the light weight mortars, which allset is not.

[@KJ_nyc]

So the research is leading me to consider the Ardex x77, even though the price is insane. I really like the lengthy Pot Life and Open Time. I also like their formula for smaller batches, since I have no desire to mix the whole bag at one time. Do I really need the Ardex mixing paddle (also ridiculously expensive)? I already own the QEP paddle. If I begin the mixing process while adding the powder to water, I should eliminate the risk of corner build-up. Any thoughts?

[@brandonfontaine285]

What would you use for cement board going on top of OSB?

[@daversj]

Use ditra instead of cement board. It will let the tile expand differently than the OSB subfloor. Use additional layer of plywood if the floor needs stiffening for deflection.

[@errik96]

So if i was using ditra and a 12x24 tile i should use a unmodified LFT thin set right? Do they make such a thing? Seems all LFT thin set is modified. Thank you.

[@SalDiBlasi]

They actually do, however since this video was made there has been some advancements in modified mortars, so now there are many that can be used to set tile over Schluter Products. Schluter even make their own thinset now.

[@errik96]

Sal DiBlasi thanks! I was looking at Schulter all set. Do you think that’s good for 12x24 tiles. Thanks.

[@maydanlex]

My Lord Sal, you're information is encyclopedic...and I know that you're trying not to get too detailed, Wow! Here's my question...I'm about to lay porcelain 12 x 24 tile onto 5/8ths OSB. I'm going to use Schluters All Set Thinset both under and over the Schluter Ditra pad that I've purchased (of course I'll use this thinset to lay the porcelain tile). Does this sound ok? And, am I ok to use Schluter's Ditra trowel with this installation (the 11/64th by 11/64 trowel)?

[@SalDiBlasi]

Ditra trowel is designed specifically for Ditra, The only thing you need to check is the floor deflection to determine if it meets L/360 for porcelain tile.kzbin.info/www/bejne/bWWldYd_a5yGZ68 Also here is the Handbook to help determine that www.contractorsdirect.com/PDF/ditra-installation-handbook.pdf

[@maydanlex]

Thank you kindly. For whatever reason (thankfully for me) the original owner had the floor joists on 12 inch centres. Surprisingly he had OSB instead of plywood though. Said it before, I’ll say it again.... great channel.

[@rayray2877]

In CANADA, We install tiles under Tile Council of Canada. What's the difference?

[@SalDiBlasi]

www.tcnatile.com/about-us.html

[@rayray2877]

What would you charge for a complete bathroom reno?

[@patrickslyne5967]

Thank you Sal. Very helpful information. Can you recommend a mortar to bond Ditra heat to plywood subfloor then for Ditra Heat to large format (32" x 32") porcelain tile. Also, I need a mortar that will not shrink over time to allow to compensate about a 5/8" across the 10 foot floor to compensate for out of level slope.

[@SalDiBlasi]

As far as mortar to adhere to plywood, look for any mortar that meets or exceeds A118.11. As far as fixing the floor,, do that before you install the tile. Thinset is not meant to be used to build up low spots.

[@tommywalker5348]

hey sal gotta a ? custom blend sales a bag of mortar for around $6 why is that? isn't that a CHEAP grade mortar, "economy " when typically a bag runs around $15 and up

[@SalDiBlasi]

I would probably stay away from that.

[@Louthemailman]

That custom blend is trash

[@seankelly819]

Thanks Sal!

[@PhatteMatte]

Thanks for all the great information based on your many years of experience. When you talked about the extended life mortars, I heard so many different words... "______ life." Pub life? Park life? Pot life? You'll have to excuse me as I'm from the mid-west, but was it palm life? Port life? Part life? Half of me is giving you a hard time for being from Boston, but the other half would really like to know. That is if you would kindly spare a moment of your time to clarify. Thanks and Cheers!

[@SalDiBlasi]

Pot life, not the stuff you smoke.

[@kallenyc]

@@SalDiBlasi Lolol!

[@Don.kee.ho-tay]

If I put a "scratch" coat of pre mixed mastic down over heated floor mat. Could I then go over with modified thin set once it's dry

[@SalDiBlasi]

NO, do not even think about it. Mastic is not to be used.

[@Don.kee.ho-tay]

@@SalDiBlasi thank you

[@Fksu]

hey Sal, I like products that i can storage and use at my own pace since i do my projects alone... is there a mortar or adehesive that i can ise on large format floor ceramic tiles that i can close the lid and continue next day? similar to mapei type 1 for example... i use modified mortar before and always find myself rushing at the end when i feel the mortar is setting... thx!

[@SalDiBlasi]

Any mortar in a bucket is garbage, so sorry keep mixing.

[@Fksu]

@@SalDiBlasi thx Sal. any mortar for large format floor tile with longer setting time that u recommend?

[@fredericklegrande4564]

Best information....and so authentic

[@SalDiBlasi]

Thanks for watching my video.

[@litoloco4fish]

Thank you kind sr!!!👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@SalDiBlasi]

You are very welcome

[@markguagenti1126]

Hey Sal, been a while sir! Hope all is well in these challenging times. I’ll be brief in my inquiry as I know you’re very busy. I’m splitting hairs with a gentleman about mastic. I would like to provide some documentation as to why we do not (as professionals) use mastic to set tiles in a shower. I’ve searched ANSI TCNA and can’t find anything concrete. I’m about 99% sure on this but I believe in having facts to support. Your assistance would be a huge help Sal! Thank you and God Bless you and your family.

[@SalDiBlasi]

Well here is the thing, technically, type 1 mastic can be used in an intermittent wet area, you will even find it on the label of the buckett. However it is not considered a good adhesive as it will deteriorate over time and is limited to smaller tiles and cannot be used over waterproof substrates. The ANSI standard for Mastic is ANSI A136.1 Since it is an organic adhesive it does not do well in the presence of moisture. here rae a couple of articles www.tiletools.com/mastic-vs-thinset-use/ and www.mapei.com/us-en/mobile/tech-talk-post.asp?IDPost=125 Another point I would make, is that anyone that knows anything about installing tile, knows that mastic is a product to be avoided in applications where water will be present, anyone that has ever torn out a failed shower installed with mastic has no doubt about the limitations and drawbacks that mastic has.

[@markguagenti1126]

Sal DiBlasi thanks Sal. That was the “debate”. He seemed to be hanging on to the verbatim of “not in a submerged area or one of high moisture”. The waterproofing verbiage confirms things a bit more as I waterproof every shower. I personally wouldn’t use an organic product that will break down over time and that was my main focus of the “debate”. Bascksplash yes, shower no. As usual Sal, thank you for your hardwork and diplomacy. God bless you and your family!

[@SalDiBlasi]

@@markguagenti1126 Some times hard heads need to be pried open to let a small sliver of information infest and take hold.

[@johnlennon2163]

Can I use MAPEI ANSI A118.4HTE on a galvanized metal substrata?

[@SalDiBlasi]

no

[@johnlennon2163]

@@SalDiBlasi Sal, is that no for both of my questions?

[@SalDiBlasi]

@@johnlennon2163 yes

[@johnlennon2163]

@@SalDiBlasi thank you

[@brianglade848]

Use tinsnips

[@timjones1583]

Should concrete be sealed before putting tile down??

[@SalDiBlasi]

absolutely not, in fact if it is sealed it needs to be scarified to open the pores.

[@timjones1583]

@@SalDiBlasi your the best brother

[@davidciriello5942]

HI SAI AWESOME VIDEOS *** IS IT TRUE YOU CAN USE A MODIFIED TIN SET ON DITRA WHEN YOU FILL IN WAFFLES THE DAY BEFORE AND LET IT DRY !!!!!

[@SalDiBlasi]

Usually yes. however today there are modified thinsets that will cure regardless of the substrate. Schluter AllSet is one, and others as well. However if you want to preserve the warranty always use a mortar approved by the manufacturer.

[@grizzly8859]

Schluter is the only company in the world that says You must use unmodified. Every other company with the exact same product different colour says to use modified. Using unmodified means extra percussion using the tile not the product ( back buttering)

[@brandonphilbrick3180]

Some tile installers around my area use proform all purpose joint compound for installing tile. That seems weird to me. Is there something I dont know about it where its doable to use it?

[@SalDiBlasi]

Joint compound is for drywall not tile.

[@jamesmcbride2929]

They are just using empty joint compound bucks to mix up the dry bags of thin-set.

[@jamesmcbride2929]

Buckets*