How thick should thinset be for shower walls?

In most installations, a layer of thinset 3/16 to 1/8-inch thick is sufficient. Too much thinset creates a mess and inhibits proper bonding between the tile and the substrate. For most tiles, apply a layer of thinset 3/16–1/8-inch thick.

Should you use mastic or thinset for shower walls?

Thinset can be used in very wet areas, even areas that will be completely submerged in water. Mastic can be used in dry or damp areas only. It cannot be used in areas that will be submerged in water, such as swimming pools. Thinset can be used for showers, bathtubs, backsplashes and other areas.

Is thinset for tile waterproof?

Thinset is waterproof due to the additives found in its formulation. It is composed of water, sand, and cement along with additives to ensure it’s waterproof. Due to this, thinset is commonly seen being used in bathrooms and showers.

What’s the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 thinset?

The titles of “Type 1” or “Type 2” are applied to adhesives used to glue wood. Type 1 is basically fully waterproof. Type 2 is water resistant. Both can also withstand a bit of heating without failure.

What size trowel should I use for shower tile?

Size and Materials Matter For mosaic tiles and glazed wall tiles up to 4 inches, use a V-notch trowel with a notch size of 3/16 inch by 1/4 inch. The notch style is what determines the amount of mortar spread across the surface, with V-shaped utensils spreading less than U-shaped, square or slant notched trowels.

Is it OK to use Mastic in a shower?

Moisture: As noted earlier, tile mastic cannot be used in high moisture areas, such as shower floors, swimming pools, or bathtubs. Mastics can be used on shower and tub surrounds, though, because these are rated as “intermittent” moisture areas. Thinset can be used in all of these areas, including shower pans.

Will thinset stick to RedGard?

You can install thinset mortar and tile directly onto RedGard. For best results, mix mortar in small batches and apply it to the shower wall a small area at a time. Use a notched tile trowel to spread mortar whenever you are tiling over RedGard.

Is there a waterproof thinset?

LATAPOXY Waterproof Flashing Mortar is an epoxy-based membrane. It can be used to waterproof seams, gaps or joints between a variety of substrates including metal and PVC pipe penetrations or flashing.

Do I need to waterproof shower walls before tiling?

You should waterproof all the shower walls before tiling. A tile backer or cement board is typically not waterproof, albeit many are water-resistant. The most effective and reliable solution is a separate waterproofing membrane on primed shower walls before tiling.