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If you take extra time to get your base/substrate prepared before you actually begin tile installation, you will minimize your efforts and prevent costly errors.
Less expensive than polymer mixes, and after curing they are resistant to water. They are most effective over mortar beds and concrete slabs. Great for most kitchen floors, bathroom floors & walls, patios, porches, cementitious backer boards (Durock, Wonderboard, Hardie Backerboards). Water based Thinset is sold by the 50lb bag and generally will cover approximately 80 square feet. We recommend "Custom" brand from past positive experiences.
Polymer Mix
Higher bond strength, compressive strength and more flexible. This adhesive is certainly the recommended choice since it allows more margin of error for the novice. They are more resistant to moisture than regular thin sets. Polymer Mix is great for most surfaces except plywood. Check your manufacturer labels for specifications. Again, we recommend "Custom" Brand.
Organic Mastics
Mastics are the least expensive per square foot and require no mixing. Used primarily for setting tile over drywall and plywood, they come in a tub and appear easy to use - and they are. However they are inferior in terms of bond and comprehensive strength to thin set adhesives. They are also not as flexible when cured. Note: Use caution when using mastics on floor applications, especially when there is a potential exposure to heat and/or water.
Epoxy Thin Sets
We would not recommend that any novice attempt using epoxy thin sets or grout since it sets extremely fast and is very unforgiving. We equate it to putting tile into a super glue mixture.
For grout joints 1/8 inch or larger, we recommend using sanded grout because it has larger sand particles for increased strength in the joint. For smaller than 1/8 inch, you should use un-sanded grout to allow the more of the cement to penetrate into the depth of the grout joint.
Complete list of tile setting tools coming soon!