[Abs777]

I am going to start laying my floor (18x18 Travertine) and bar top (12x12 Granite tiles). I was wondering what would be the best notch size for the mortar? Travertine will be on concrete floor and granite will be on backerboard.

Thanks!!

 

[Abs777]

For the people who have laid travertine on concrete did you use a special mortar or some kind of adhesive to help it adhere better? Also as stated above, what is the best trowel notch size for tile that size and how big of spacers would you use?

Any help will be much appreciated.

 

[oh'mike]

18x18---I'd use 1/2 x 1/2 trowel---modified thinset (powdered)

spacing is your choice---I suggest you see if 3/16 looks good to your eyes.

Lippage can be a big problem with 18 x 18 tiles---consider a leveling system like Lash by QEP

or Tuscan or Ramondi---they pull the tiles nice and flat----Back buttering the tiles is a good idea when using a leveling clip.

 

[Abs777]

Thanks for the info Mike. Couple questions....

What exactly is modified thinset?

What is lippage? Lip high in spots?

Also what do you mean by leveling clip?

Sorry just not well versed in tiling. I've done easy ceramic before, but that was on sub floor and not concrete.

If the floor is in great shape and level do I still need a leveling system?

 

[oh'mike]

Let's start with the setting material----Thinset is a powdered cement based mortar used to stick the tiles to the concrete.

It comes as unmodified (just cement) or modified (contains a latex powder) which makes it stickier and more flexible.

Sometimes unmodified is mixed with a liquid latex --this makes for a very good bond over certain surfaces.

For your job I suggest a modified thinset --I like white for natural stone.

Lippage is what happens when one tile edge stick up more than the one next to it.

The larger the tile the more this becomes a problem. Floors need to be flat--no more than 1/8 inch in 6 feet.---Google the clips that I listed--you will see what they do.

I use them on any tile larger than 14"---


The thinset must be mixed with a strong 1/2" drill with a mixing wand.

Do not use any pre-mixed adhesive---ever---use the powdered stuff.----Mike---

 

[oh'mike]

Here is some good reading for you---"Mud" What Is It? - Kitchen & Bath Remodeling - DIY Chatroom - DIY Home Improvement Forum

Tuscan Leveling System - Flooring Picture Post - Contractor Talk - Professional Construction and Remodeling Forum

LASH System by QEP

 

[Abs777]

Thanks Mike for all of your info. I really appreciate the help!