What Is Concrete Slab Thinset?

Concrete slabs used for flooring often need to have tiles adhered to them. The mortar used to do this is known as thinset. There are various types of thinset, which are grouped by their use and components. This type of mortar is always used in a thin layer.

It is important to properly adhere ceramic tiles to a concrete slab. Lightly wetting the concrete before applying the thinset is technique used to increase the adhesion.

Cement Thinset
The most common type of thinset is cement. It's primary use it to attach tile to concrete slab floors. The slow drying process is created by using chemicals that slow the drying process in with the Portland cement and fine sand. A longer drying time allows more time to adjust and set the tiles. This type of thinset is good for high-traffic areas. This product comes premixed or as a powder to be mixed with water.

Latex Additive
To increase the bonding ability of thinset, acrylic latex can be added to it. Premixed cement thinset often includes latex.

Mastic Thinset
This type of thinset is used for when you want tile to immediately stick and stay on a surface. Surfaces that receive little impact, such as walls, should have mastic thinset used.  

Epoxy Thinset
Quick setting thinset is resin-based. It is known as epoxy thinset and comes in three components. These components must be mixed just prior to use. Adhering tile can be done in a matter of hours instead of days when this type of thinset is used. Similar to mastic thinset, epoxy thinset does not allow the tiles to be adjusted once they are placed. It is a more costly thinset and has a strong odor until it is cured.

Thickset
As the name implies, thickset mortar is applied in a thicker layer than thinset. It is a cement and sand-based mortar which may be reinforced with wire or installed over metal lath.