Modified vs unmodified thinset

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Are you wondering about modified vs unmodified thinset mortars? The internet is full of information and even misinformation on this very subject. In fact, this debate has stoked many of the conversations and threads on the tile and building forums for years. There have been some developments in recent years and new information to digest. Similarly, be sure to check out the main post that I wrote which is an ultimate guide to thinset and helps you decide which one you need for your projects. Then, head over to this post when it comes time to actually start mixing thinset mortar as well as separate instructions for mixing small batches of thinset mortar. The debate matters because of the way the different products cure.

Modified vs unmodified thinset

Coupon automatically applied at checkout. What happens when you inject something with ingredients designed to make it stronger? In the movies or comics , you get characters like Wolverine. But real life has some stories to tell as well. Take thinset, for instance. Back in the s , people used inches of thinset beneath their tile. Unmodified thinset consists simply of cement, finely graded sand and water retention agents. To help strengthen thinset, Henry Rothberg invented a synthetic form of latex to be added to the thinset, thereby kickstarting the whole segment of modified thinsets. He took inspiration from modified concrete mixes of the s that were used to repair and strengthen sea walls. However, he made sure that his synthetic latex had a longer shelf life and extended working time to suit tile installations. Twenty years later, the Tile Council of America developed a modified powdered thinset with dry polymers that were activated by adding water to the mix. These modified thinsets also went back to being as their name describes — thin — thanks to their added strength.

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When it comes to thinset, choosing between modified or unmodified thinset can leave many tile installers scratching their heads. Is one better than the other? Or is it just a matter of personal preference, convenience or plain work habits? Unmodified thinset has been around forever. Old-school professionals know how to work with it and understand its application perfectly. But, in the last decades, we have witnessed the rise of the modified thinset. Its simplicity charms more and more installers.

However, should you get modified or unmodified thinset? The type you choose will depend on your project and how much strength and flexibility you will need. Modified thinset is ideal for stone and tile work because it contains special polymers that make it strong and easy to work with. Professionals also use unmodified thinset or mortar, and it consists of a simple mixture of sand, water, and Portland cement. The additional retention of modified thinset makes it more durable and versatile. Both modified and unmodified thinset are useful for many projects, but it can be difficult to choose between them.

Modified vs unmodified thinset

Our Projects Division offers a complete underfloor heating supply and installation service for large-scale projects. Modified or unmodified thinset, what is the difference? This question has puzzled DIYers and construction professionals alike for years.

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Back in the s , people used inches of thinset beneath their tile. Now mortar manufacturers have come out with their own uncoupling membranes and shower systems. Unsanded Grout: The 4 Biggest Differences That Matter ] A high-quality thinset will have a higher percentage of cement because it makes it sturdier as well as more resistant and sticky. Sprinkle in a little more thinset. Truth be told, modified thinset has rapidly become more popular. Most professional installers consider Laticrete to be the premium option, followed shortly by Laticrete Consider these things:. Twenty years later, the Tile Council of America developed a modified powdered thinset with dry polymers that were activated by adding water to the mix. For example, unmodified thinset has been the preferred thinset for tile on concrete. What is Thinset Mortar? This question has puzzled DIYers and construction professionals alike for years.

When it comes to tile installation, choosing the right thinset is crucial for ensuring a strong and durable bond.

Please describe your project :. Cameron Witbeck for WarmlyYours December 18, The Rise of Modified Thinset To help strengthen thinset, Henry Rothberg invented a synthetic form of latex to be added to the thinset, thereby kickstarting the whole segment of modified thinsets. Do you know more pro tips to choose between modified or unmodified thinset? Most manufacturers will expressly state when to use modified thinset and when to use unmodified thinset. We had a pretty major cleanup job from a client that went with a different tile installer that used unmodified thinset bond on their project. Hours of Operation. Thinset contains silica dust. Unmodified thinset is composed of three main ingredients; portland cement, sand, and powdered water retention additives. Let me know in the comments below! From here on, a wide variety of mixtures were created, and the market for modified thinset expanded. Your email address will not be published. Tips for Mixing Thinset When mixing thinset, regardless of whether it is modified or unmodified, there are a few essential techniques that will help ensure your success: 1. The product can be installed with modified or unmodified thinset, above and below, and is even available in a peel-and-stick option to eliminate the need for thinset below the product. Not sure tiles were backbuttered.