As a modified thinset mortar, it has a more substantial bonding power. Also I highly recommend using Prism cementitious grout as it has solved all of my shading and efflorescence issues. Another notable difference between these two is the setting or working time. Since moisture is a menace to most tile installation jobs, you will be glad to know that Mapei is very good at dealing with moisture. Not to say that Mapeis bonding strength is whack. Substrate adhesion and tile porosity will determine which you need to use. Adheres to most surfaces. What is the difference between Versabond and Flexbond? Product Details. If you decide to use Versabond. This non-sag, non-slump medium bed mortar is designed for most large format porcelain, ceramic and natural stone tile. Versabond is a great thinset mortar that is both powerful and flexible. Lets not forget that it covers a larger surface area. Are you using the right mortar for setting large format porcelain or stone?Make sure the setting material you choose doesn't slump under weight of today's la. With a non-slumping formula to eliminate lippage, Versabond-LFT can be applied to " (19mm) thick on horizontal surfaces. Versabond can cure even in cold climates and has excellent bonding strength. New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast. 1. The sand grain determines the thinset ability to hold the weight of a tile. This high bond strength formula is 30% lighter than a traditional mortar, resulting in a product that is easier to trowel and move around the jobsite. Between these two products, Mapei has a higher moisture resistance. Flexbond tends to be more modified, which means that it's more flexible. You will know which one is perfect for your project at the end of it. It was actually cheaper, too. The rinse conditioner accelerates bond formation . Fast setting even in cold weather. Come join the discussion about tools, projects, builds, styles, scales, reviews, accessories, classifieds, and more! Would ya lookit that. If you are installing big tiles, this is the thinset you should use. . Donnie D. 09-16-2013, 07:50 PM. Ceramic Tile Advice Forums - John Bridge Ceramic Tile. For homeowners working on significant tile installation jobs, going with a thinset mortar that has a bigger coverage is a more cost-effective solution. Unlike unmodified mortar, which consists only of a blend of Portland cement, sand, and water retention agents, modified thinset includes additional retention products, such as latex polymers, which can increase its performance and strength. Either one will work fine, The Flexbond is better though, that's what I would use, if I had to pick between the 2. The reason why Versabond has better bonding strength is because of the presence of modified agents. There was no longer a size restriction on how large a tile could be and manufacturers raced to make tiles larger to meet changing consumer preferences. VersaBond cures quickly even in cold climates and adheres to most surfaces. Between these two, Mapei has a larger sand grain. What type of mortar is VersaBond? I used flexbond on a previous job where I didn't take up the linoleum (I'm bad) and used the hardiboard just like you. Just to confuse you a bit more, you also have the option of using a unmodified thinset like CustomBlend, MasterBlend, or PremiumPlus with the addition of a liquid admix like Acrylic Mortar Admix or CustomFlex. Laticrete 254 Platinumis one example of this. I printed the spec sheets and have been reading up a bit. For most standard installations. Suppose you applied a coat of grout release before you start. They Both advertised as white except clearly not the case, typ. VBT is a theory that explains the formation of a covalent bond via hybridization of atomic orbitals. Versabond-LFT Fortified Medium Bed Mortar is a general purpose, economical, polymer-modified medium bed mortar for use with large format porcelain, ceramic and natural stone tile. You will use 50 lbs. . A professional formula, all-purpose mortar, polymer-modified to provide good bond strength for floor and tile projects. Both Versabond and Flexbond are brands of modified thinset mortars meant to "flex" with the expansion and contraction of surfaces. Secondly, Mapei has a shorter setting time. There are several thinset brands in the market. Then, realize that all of the products mentioned so far are from Custom Building Products. I purchased Mapei large format tile medium bed mortar since they're 12x24 tile and that's what I read on here to get. Versabond comprises Portland cement, inorganic aggregates, copolymers, and other chemicals responsible for its performance. 03:06. That is the key,sheer strength.The versabond will sheer before the flexbond will if there happens to be any movement or deflection.If you are planning on having party's or large family get togethers i highly reccomend going with the flexbond.The more people in a room, the more flex you get in your floor. On the packaging, there are instructions about the ratios you should use. With Mapei, there is no room for that. Here are the links to the two options I was considering: JavaScript is disabled. In terms of modifier amount, Versabond comes out on top. Frankly, working with more than one type of mortar seems unnecessarily complicated. Fortified Thin-Set Mortar is a professional formula, all-purpose mortar, polymer-modified to provide good bond strength for floor and tile projects. I am not a sales rep. just a happy customer. It's pretty self explanatory. Both are latex modified. A professional formula, all-purpose mortar, polymer-modified to provide good bond strength for floor and tile projects. Thank you, Harry Harry Tabrys Versabond thinset can be used as a bonding agent to existing concrete. Since Versabond comes as a dry formula, it should be mixed with clean water when preparing it for use. . CFT is a model that is designed to explain the breaking of degeneracies of electron orbitals due to static electric field produced by a surrounding anion or anions. 452 in stock. In my experience, we always let shower tiles dry for up to three days before we let the customers use it. Can Drywall Mud Go Down The Drain? For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Custom Building Products VersaBond 50 lbs. Considering that thinset plays a crucial role in tile installation projects, you must make an informed choice. I needed a bag to do a shower floor and remembered a flooring store close to the jobsite. Now onto the second question is how large of a tile are you setting and how flat is the surface you are setting on. Ceramic Tile Advice Forums - John Bridge Ceramic Tile. Both mortars meet ANSI 118.11 and 118.4. With a non-slumping formula to eliminate lippage, Versabond - LFT can be applied to 3/4" (19 mm) thick on horizontal applications. However, varying thinset mortars have different moisture-resistant points. However, this can both be an advantage and a disadvantage. VBT explains the mixing of orbitals. For instance, it shouldnt be bonded directly to OSB boards, metal, hardwood, particle board parquet, and sponge or cushion. This can be used on translucent marble or light-colored stone installations. I'm not sure it made a difference . Thinset tile mortar has a smooth, slippery consistency, similar to mud. Well when you break it down to a square foot cost, would you rather have the insurance of Flexbond for the whooping price of an extra 10 cents per foot vs Versabond? Calling all food and wine lovers! After reviewing your posts, I think Versabond thinset is good enough for my kitchen tile installation. VersaBond Lite offers all the performance of Versabond-LFT with maximized creaminess and the benefits of a true lightweight mortar. But you need to know Versabond vs. Mapei thin-set to know which one is best for your project. It was actually cheaper, too. The modification that makes them work is the amount of latex. VersaBond 50 lb. Can I use Versabond thinset as a bonding agent applied to existing concrete over Laticrete Hydro Barrier waterproofing. Scott, it's not only cost; it's ease of use. Each company promises an unrivaled bonding strength and ease of use. For most standard floor and wall installations. chandler48. Suitable for internal and external floors and walls. Its important to know that Versabond has a few limitations. What is the difference between Versabond and Versabond LFT thinset? Hey Guys Made This Video to Show the Big difference between versabond and versabond LFT white. Therefore it can hold more weight than Versabond. Custom Building Products VersaBond 50 lbs. A thinset with a large sand grain, the more weight it will be able to hold. Any major differences or things to know? Privacy Policy. But sounds like they both should do the job fine. Since Versabond comes as a dry formula, it should be mixed with clean water when preparing it for use. If you are stuck between choosing these two, we will highlight the similarities and differences so that you can identify which is ideal for your tile installation job. VersaBond cures quickly and adheres to most surfaces. Ultraflex LFT is a premium, non-sag, large-and-heavy-tile mortar and thin-set mortar designed for large-format and heavy tile and stone for interior/exterior floor, wall and countertop installations. By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. In principle, modified mortars also could be used over water-absorbing substrates such as drywall, cement backerboard, or dry-pack mortar but seams and connections to the Kerdi drain would still need to be constructed using unmodified thinset mortar. But there is one thing that makes it stand out: it is modified. WHERE TO BUY Not all products are sold at all stores. Unmodified thinset has been around forever. Both are Products from Reputable Brands. I needed a bag to do a shower floor and remembered a flooring store close to the jobsite. Therefore, after some five to ten minutes, you should always stir the mixture to ensure even distribution of the contents. Versabond comprises Portland cement, inorganic aggregates, copolymers, and other chemicals responsible for its performance. Would that help at shower time? 2 yr. ago Advisor of the Year 2018. Because of the sand grain size, Mapei thinset will not sag when used to bond larger tiles. Generally, thinset mortars are known to have some moisture resistance. thats almost twice the amount needed. What is the difference between these two? Mix 6 qts (5.68 L) clean water per 50 lb (22.68 kg) bag of mortar. How to mix versabond LFT? Its also a cheaper solution. As a result, there is no latex modifier in it. If you are a newbie or anticipating some mistakes, please dont be in a hurry to dismiss the thinset mortar with a longer setting time. I think I'll give the VersaBond LFT a try since Home Depot is close to me. I already laid down the hardibacker board. CFT explains the splitting of orbitals. Mapei Has a Shorter Setting/Working Time than Versabond. A trait that is only mastered by experts. I will show you the differences between Versabond and Mapei thin-set mortar. Besides that, Mapei has plenty of features, such as being more moisture resistant and having a larger sand grain. and our Its important to know that Versabond is modified, making it better than most average thinset mortars. VersaBond cures quickly even in cold climates and adheres to most surfaces, exceeding ANSI A118.4 and A118.11 without the need for additives. Mapeis quick setting time enables you to complete the project in the shortest duration. From the above descriptions, why both are excellent choices should be clear. Versabond and Mapei are two very renowned thin-set mortar brands. View More Details. But if you make any mistakes such as misalignment, Versabond will give you more time to correct such errors. I normally use Versabond LFT, because HD is closer than Lowes. Cookie Notice Anyone have any preferences between Mapei Large Format Tile mortar and VersaBond LFT? Being your installation is a concrete floor allows the use of a cheaper unmodified mortar, especially if you were installing basic ceramic tiles. By golly, Colleen, that was well put. Mapei, on the other hand, is an unmodified thin-set. I have used both and just finished an entry way (13x13) with versabond over 1 1/8 subfloor with 1/2 backerboard (it was solid). The good thing about Versabond is it has a longer working time. Made of sand, water and cement, thinset can be modified to contain . Is VersaBond a modified thinset? If you are interested in a tile installation adhesive that will ensure the tiles hold to the wall for years, Versabond should be your top pick. On the other hand, Versabond thinset mortars are modified. So.is this a big deal for a non-professional installer who isn't used to using this product? These are features that will ensure the tile installation job is flawless. With Versabond, you cant be too sure when installing it in an area that experiences a lot of moisture. Mapei thinset mortars are generally premium grade, lightweight, and can be used for heavy and large tile installation. There is something known as sand grains when comparing thinset mortars. Today, tiles of 12"x24", 8"x36", and even 24"x48" are common. Its also mold resistant. This forum is great and you guys are so helpful. Supports large and heavy tile for flat, even installations. Forget it with Flex Bond. This brand of thinset mortar is formulated to cover twice as much of the area of a typical thinset. Versabond is an all-purpose thinset with a rich formula that can be used in tile and floor projects. I got Mapei LFT and it seemed to be creamier and didn't thicken up as fast as Versabond. It is applied to the substrate with a notched. Versabond Has a Higher Bonding Strength. Mapei and Versabond are popular names in the thinset industry. Thanks a lot for your reply. I used VersaBond (A118.1, A118.4, A118.11) "Polymer modified" "fast setting" for the entire project. Pretreatment is often the most overlooked or underutilized part of the coating stack even though it is the keystone to product longevity. But they have some modified options, such as the Mapei Ultralite Mortar. A forum community dedicated to Do it yourself-ers and home improvement enthusiasts. Both cements were mixed in a vacuum chamber (Optivac, Scandimed, Sjbo, Sweden). If you go with Mapei, you will cover the same area as Versabond but with a small amount of thinset. First, it has a more prominent sand grain. Next What is the difference between Vermeil and gold cousin? For the thinset to be used for tile installation, I see HD sells Versabond and Flexbond thinset. Mapei and Versabond are reputable names in the tile installation business. Versabond-LFT surpasses both ANSI A118.4HT and A118.11 requirements, making it suitable for both floors and walls. I've come to trust the opinion of all 5 of these pros, and I'm not suprised that their opinions on what to use is different. The price will depend on where you are buying the thinset mortar. If you are on a budget, you should lean more towards Versabond. We wanted to save the biggest difference for last. If you are going to have over a 1/4" of mortar bed then you need to step up into a medium bed mortar or LFT large format tile mortar. When defining the Mapei thinset mortar, we mentioned that it covers twice the area typical thinset mortars do. You will need 28 lbs of Mapei to cover an 85-square-foot area. I got Mapei LFT and it seemed to be creamier and didn't thicken up as fast as Versabond. Porcelain tiles require modified mortar, (except over Ditra or Kerdi), such as Versabond and FlexBond. Versabond has got a wide range of applications. Even if this is a one-time kind of project, you will have to familiarize yourself with thinset lingo. Find and share . Versabond can cure even in cold climates and has excellent bonding strength. Designed for a wide variety of interior and exterior floor [] What is the difference between modified and unmodified mortar? Aisle 24, Bay EC2 Text to Me. Larger tiles (tiles larger than 15" long on any side) and heavy . Has a lot to due with bond strength over what surface. So I may be making a switch. The modifiers allow it to be incredibly flexible and powerful. These mortars really are the best thinset of the bunch because they have to be. Most of their thinset mortars are usually unmodified. Please note that some exceptions in Mapei are modified with polymers and are equally as strong. why is it so windy lately 2021; pretense in a sentence versabond over redguard. Have a family member installing tile. Once completed, you a thicker mortar to finish the project. Allow us to elaborate. WHERE TO BUY Not all products are sold at all stores. Versabond LFT is designed to install large format tiles that have at least one edge 15 inches or larger whereas Versabond should only be used for tiles smaller than 15 inches. Helping You to Do It Yourself! Well, in this case, the ordinary thinset mortars referred to is Versabond. Mapei is More Moisture Resistant than Thinset. You can find similar products to almost all of them from Laticrete, Hydroment, Mapei, TEC, and more. Buy 10 or more $11.92. Picking out the right mortar can make or break your project, at least when it comes to how it'll look in 10 years. Even though there are notable differences between these two, irrespective of which option you choose, you are assured of proper adhesion of the tiles to the wall or cement board. There are a couple of things that we like about Mapei thinset mortar. Besides the above limitations, Versabond is an excellent thinset mortar. I normally use Versabond LFT, because HD is closer than Lowes. Can I use Versabond for tile installation or should I use Flexbond? It wasn't till today that I was looking up dry times, when I realized my mistake and that "Polymer Modified" is the same thing as "latex modified" which is great for the bottom layer, but not . (Solved), Can You Use Redgard Over Dry Pack? Hope this helps :) Law Office of Arkady Itkin. Breakfast Burrito Recipes; Breakfast Egg Recipes This is a cost-efficient, all-purpose mortar. it's hard searching for "versabond" and "flexbond" b/c a lot of posts have both words somewhere in them, but aren't necessarily comparing the two (or comparing different thinsets at all). This is as long as you keep the size or amount constant. VersaBond is medium viscosity at room temperature, whereas Palacos is medium viscosity when stored at 4 C before mixing. Through the standard polymer modified mortars the difference between the three listed mainly lies in the polymers. The thinset should cost you north of $40/ bag and should have ANSI 118.15 stamped on it. If I don't like it, then I'll try out the Mapei LFT next time. Fortified Thin-Set Mortar is a professional formula, all-purpose mortar, polymer- modified to provide good bond strengths. The Mapei has larger sand grains so the thinset does not sag from the weight of the large tile you are setting. I plan to install 12" x 12" ceramic tile in the kitchen. (Like the cheaper red bodied, high water absorbing tiles tile I see at the "vest" places). (Answered). Thinset is a mortar that is made of Portland cement, silica sand, and moisture-retaining agents. With Mapei, you get a shorter setting time, so you must be careful during installation. I think the only noticable difference is the $10. Flexbond being the most expensive and the strongest polymers , next Versabond Flex, then Versabond. That is, however, ruled out by the fact that Mapei is more expensive. Flexbond being the most expensive and the strongest polymers , next Versabond Flex, then Versabond. I have found that most people i deal with prefer my overkill in building attitude over a good enough attitude. Versabond-LFT professional medium bed mortar is a non-sag, nonslump, polymer modified mortar for use with large format porcelain, ceramic and natural stone tile. Cumberland Store. However, Versabond LFT has an additional HT designation . Product Weight (lb. If you thought choosing tiles for your project was hard, wait until you get to the thinset. Between these two thinset mortars, Versabond has a higher bonding strength than Mapei. Versabond-LFT professional medium bed mortar is a non-sag, nonslump, polymer modified mortar for use with large format porcelain, ceramic and natural stone tile. But the truth is, these thinset brands are all formulated differently. Macaroni and Cheese Recipes; Pork Chop Recipes; Shepherd's Pie Recipes; Shrimp Scampi; Breakfast and Brunch Menu Toggle. VersaBond cures quickly even in cold climates and adheres to most surfaces, exceeding ANSI A118.4 and A118.11 without the need for additives. hmmm, why did this fizzle out? Fortified Thin-Set Mortar is a professional formula, all-purpose mortar, polymer-modified to provide good bond strength for floor and tile projects. This is a cost-efficient, all-purpose mortar. I dont believe its in the aggregate, I believe it is in the polymers.The addative is better allowing for a higher sheer strength. The difference between the regular Versabond and The Mapei medium bed is the size of the sand grains. Versabond is a modified thin-set that contains a lot of acrylic latex modifiers. As a tile contractor that just went through Custom's technical class I can assure you that there are vast difference between the products. Versabond takes longer to set. The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo, https://www.homedepot.com/p/Custom-BMG50/205789819, https://www.lowes.com/pd/MAPEI-Largetar/1000695980, VerticalScope Inc., 111 Peter Street, Suite 901, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada. This mortar has a high content of unique dry polymer, resulting in excellent adhesion to the substrate and tile. I'm with RD, but I think this guest deserves a better, clarified answer. Mapei is ideal for professional construction contractors or homeowners experienced in tile installation. How do you mix VersaBond? I am finishing my list with LATICRETE 317 mortar. Because of the difference in formulas, thinset mortars have varying setting times. Wide compatibility and multipurpose use two are . If interested, you can choose a Mapei thinset with a universal color formula. Through the standard polymer modified mortars the difference between the three listed mainly lies in the polymers. Versabond, on the other hand, is cheaper and is made for areas that . Covering the same amount of square feet, you can typically purchase a bucket of pre-mix for $35 and a bag of powder based mortar for around $16. Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. LATICRETE 317 Mortar Click On Image To View On Amazon. The Custom Building Products VersaBond 50 lbs. I still don't like Mapei grout, but that's another story. Besides that, the Mapei thinset is formulated to be very easy to apply. For instance, it can be used in flooring and tiling installations. It is also more moisture-resistant than Versabond. However, unmodified thinset should be used between the membrane and the tile. Thinset mortar, whether gray or white, is an adhesive used to set tiles to walls, counters, floors or wherever the tile is being placed. Mapei is a leading brand in the thinset industry. Over the versabond we would apply an 1-1/2" mudset. One of the industry's most popular mortars. On such surfaces, it wont hold for very long. Versabond zinc-phosphate pretreatment system combines the new liquid Versabond rinse conditioner and zinc phosphate, producing an ultra-fine, grained base. If you are shopping for a thinset mortar, opt for the one with a higher bonding strength. Or are both basically equivalent when laying down 24 inch by 12 inch tile? Thinset mortar is your default tile mortar for most indoor and outdoor applications. Versabond, on the other hand, is cheaper and is made for areas that are more environmentally stable. VersaBond differs from Palacos in lower content of opacifier, higher powder:liquid ratio, and different blend of the acrylate powder. Fortified Thin-Set Mortar is a professional formula, all-purpose mortar, polymer-modified to provide good bond strengths. If you intend to complete the tile installation project in the quickest time possible, we recommend Mapei. However, irrespective of where you are comparing the prices, you will discover that Mapei is more expensive. Smaller tiles are easier to install with a thin layer of mortar. Go to Customs website and pull up data sheets for each. That doesnt come as a surprise because its an all-purpose thinset mortar. Both Promote Adhesion of Tiles to the Wall or Cement Board. Tips: Don't forget to screen the mortar if you work in highly humid weather to avoid clamp and proper mixing. Versabond has Smaller Sand Grains than Mapei. Substrate adhesion and tile porosity will determine which you need to use. If you are in a hurry, it seems like a viable option. That will ensure the tile adheres firmly to the walls. Flexbond tends to be more modified, which means that it's more flexible. VersaBond cures quickly even in cold climates and adheres to most surfaces. You often see tile setters using a serrated trowel over thinset mortar to create a suction that better adheres the tile to the surface. Exterior tile installation over occupied space. In my experience, Flexbond is awesome for porcelain tile, flat backed tile, and non-vitreous, hard to stick tile. ): 52.02 lb. You can use it in the bathroom or kitchen without watering about tile damage. Its good only that you cant match it with that of Versabond. Mix by hand or use a low 150 - 200 rpm speed 1/2" (13 mm) drill to achieve a smooth, paste-like consistency. A mortar is a combination of lime, cement, sand, and water that is used in construction to hold bricks or stones together. Seems like the versabond has a longer time you can work with it. Their descriptions are fairly vague throughout the line, which makes product selection for a picky consumer difficult. White . I was reading your thread and learned quite a bit. I don't use it with regular tile. we bought a zoo. One of the critical characteristics most homeowners appreciate with Mapei is its non-sag feature. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. Main Dishes Menu Toggle. What is the difference between Versabond and Flexbond . Location: Home of Sinclair Lewis, Sauk Centre, MN. Flexbond says it can bridge 1/16" cracks in concrete, more flex. Read my differences between Versabond and Mapei thin-set for more understanding. It also doesn't dry as quickly as powder-based mortar, especially if you're using large tiles. If your project entails the installation of bigger tiles, we advise you to go with Mapei. i really wanted to read all the various answers that i expected to find nestled under this question, b/c i have the same question myself. Flexbond is $10 more expensive than Versabond. What is the difference between mortar and thinset? Versabond works well with granite, marble, porcelain, and plywood subfloors. Posts: n/a. Lotsa great information, and differing opinions. So, let's skip the "how" and get to the mistake. Okay, thanks guys. Versabond doesnt have many impressive features as Mapei. Please note that the manufacturers of Versabond dont recommend it as a suitable tile for submerged water surfaces such as pools.
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