What to Use to Install Tile: Tools, Adhesives, and Tips

Installing tile requires the right combination of tools, adhesives, and preparation to achieve a durable, attractive finish. This article explains what to use to put tile down, covering adhesives like thinset and mastic, underlayment options, essential tools, cutting methods, grouting, and waterproofing. It provides practical tips for success and common pitfalls to avoid.

Category	Primary Options	Best For
Adhesive	Thinset Mortar, Modified Thinset, Mastic	Floor/Wall Tile, Wet Areas, Porcelain/Ceramic
Underlayment	Cement Backer Board, Uncoupling Membrane, Backer Board	Wet Areas, Floors Over Wood, Tile Over Concrete
Waterproofing	Liquid Membrane, Sheet Membrane	Showers, Wet Rooms
Tools	Notched Trowel, Tile Cutter, Wet Saw, Level, Grout Float	Accurate Layout, Clean Cuts, Consistent Adhesive Coverage

Tile Adhesives: Which One To Use

Thinset mortar is the most commonly recommended adhesive for floor and wall tile because it bonds well to concrete, cement board, and many tile types. Modified thinset (polymer-enhanced) improves flexibility and bond strength, making it ideal for large-format and porcelain tile. Mastic is an organic adhesive suitable for dry, low-moisture wall installations but is not recommended for floors or wet areas.

Choosing The Right Thinset

Select thinset based on substrate and tile material. Use modified thinset for porcelain and large-format tile or when installing over plywood and other slightly flexible substrates. Use unmodified/cement-only thinset when required by certain waterproofing membranes or when installing with specific setting beds.

Underlayment And Substrate Preparation

Proper substrate prep is crucial. For tile on wood floors, install a cement backer board or an uncoupling membrane like Ditra. For concrete, ensure it is clean, level, and cured. Remove paint, sealers, or wax, and repair cracks or heaves before setting tile.

Waterproofing For Wet Areas

Showers and wet areas require a waterproof layer under the tile. Options include liquid-applied waterproofing membranes and sheet membranes (e.g., Kerdi). Follow manufacturer guidance for seams, corners, and penetrations to prevent leaks and mold.

Essential Tools To Put Tile Down

Key tools include a notched trowel sized to the tile (e.g., 1/4″ x 1/4″ for small tiles, 1/2″ x 1/2″ for large tiles), a wet saw or tile cutter for precise cuts, a level, spacers, a rubber grout float, and a mixing bucket with a drill paddle. Proper tools produce consistent adhesive coverage and precise tile placement.

Tile Layout And Dry-Setting

Begin with a dry layout to establish grout lines and avoid small cut pieces at borders. Snap reference lines with a chalk line and use a level. Dry-setting tiles helps visualize patterns and ensures balanced edges and focal points before applying adhesive.

Applying Thinset And Setting Tile

Mix thinset to manufacturer specs and back-butter large-format tiles when needed. Use the correct notched trowel and create even ridges. Press tiles into place with a slight twisting motion to collapse ridges and ensure full contact. Check level frequently and adjust with tapping or shims as needed.

Tile Cutting Methods

Common cutting tools include a manual snap cutter for ceramic, a wet saw with a diamond blade for porcelain and natural stone, and a nipper for small irregular cuts. Use a wet saw for precise, clean cuts on harder tiles and always follow safety practices for dust and blade handling.

Grouting And Sealing Tile Joints

After thinset cures (typically 24–48 hours), apply grout using a rubber float and work diagonally across joints. Choose sanded grout for larger joints (>1/8″) and unsanded for narrow joints and polished stone. Seal grout and porous stone to prevent staining and water intrusion after full cure time.

Working With Different Tile Types

Ceramic tiles are forgiving and often use standard thinset and mastic for walls. Porcelain is dense and less porous, requiring modified thinset and often a wet saw. Natural stone may need a specific adhesive, slower-setting thinset, and pre-sealing to prevent discoloration.

Underfloor Heating And Large Tiles

For heated floors, use a flexible modified thinset and an uncoupling membrane when installing large-format tiles to allow for movement and to protect the heating elements. Follow the heating system and tile manufacturers’ recommendations for adhesive and expansion joint placement.

Expansion Joints And Movement Joints

Include movement joints where tile meets different materials, around perimeters, and in long runs (typically every 20–25 feet). Use flexible caulk or backer rod to accommodate expansion. Ignoring movement joints leads to cracking and lippage over time.

Common Installation Mistakes To Avoid

Frequent mistakes include insufficient substrate prep, using the wrong adhesive (e.g., mastic in wet areas), inadequate thinset coverage for large-format tiles, and skipping waterproofing in showers. Correcting these errors early prevents costly repairs.

Maintenance After Installation

Allow proper cure times before heavy use. Clean grout lines with pH-neutral cleaners and avoid harsh acids on stone tiles. Periodically reseal grout and natural stone to maintain water resistance and appearance. Regular maintenance prolongs tile life and appearance.

Troubleshooting: Fixing Loose Or Hollow Tiles

Hollow-sounding tiles indicate poor adhesion. Options include removing and re-setting with proper thinset, or for small areas, injecting epoxy adhesive underneath. Address the root cause—substrate movement, insufficient coverage, or improper adhesive selection—to prevent recurrence.

Cost Considerations And Planning

Costs include tile, adhesive, underlayment, tools, and labor. Thinset and backer board prices vary by quality; waterproofing membranes add to shower costs. Budget for extra materials (typically 10–15% overage) for cuts and breakage and plan timeline for curing and grouting.

Where To Buy Materials And Find Guidance

Home centers and specialty tile stores carry tiles, thinset, membranes, and tools. Look for manufacturer datasheets and technical guides for recommended adhesives and installation methods. Following manufacturer instructions ensures warranty compliance and long-term performance.

Summary Of Recommended Combinations

Application	Underlayment	Adhesive
Bathroom Shower Walls	Cement Backer Board + Waterproofing	Unmodified Thinset With Membrane Per Manufacturer
Bathroom Floor	Cement Backer Board Or Uncoupling Membrane	Modified Thinset
Kitchen Backsplash	Drywall Or Backer Board	Mastic Or Thinset For Heavier Tiles
Porcelain Floor	Concrete Or Backer Board	Modified Thinset, Full-Butter For Large Tiles

For successful tile installation, the correct combination of substrate preparation, adhesive selection, tools, and waterproofing is essential. Following the guidance above helps ensure a durable, attractive tile installation that performs well in its intended environment.