Can I also use thin set to grout my tiles on counter? I‘m using white glazed ceramic tiles 4x4. If not what should I use? Please help
The most popular tiles are large format styles that minimize grout lines and make a small kitchen appear larger. Squares are the most popular shape, but rectangles, hexagons, and octagons can make a statement. You can incorporate one or more styles to create a variety of patterns, from checkerboard to basketweave, and add accents for visual interest. The hardness that makes tile so desirable as a kitchen floor surface can also be a drawback. Serious cooks will want to wear comfortable shoes or put down floor mats or area rugs, because standing on tile for long periods of time can be tough on legs and backs. Its surface is cold to the touch of bare feet. And dropped dishes, mugs, and glasses can break on impact.
Thin set is used only for setting or adhering the tiles to your substrate. If its just a basic, white , soft bodied 4x4 Unsanded grout must be used. The sand (in thin set) and the small joint used will not adhere properly and shrink and fall out. Unsanded is made to get down into the joints.The sand in thin set is more of a silica sand. If its a a hard bodied tile and is a bit thicker than a standard tile a bigger joint and sanded grout must be used. Thats 1/8 to 1/2 joint size. There is more sand and the bigger joint will adhere and not shrink ( if the proper amount of water is used in the grout) and will harden just as a cement based product should. Any questions you can e mail me through my avatar and check my qualifications there. GL
I used thin set when I did mine and it was fine. Make sure to use a cutting board when working with knives; most ceramic tiles can scratch. I use a clean glass- like pyrex- so the tiles are visible. Don't forget to seal the grout- read the package directions for how long to wait.
As far as using the thin-set for the grout, that's not what it's meant for. While I have seen and heard of it being done, I don't see why you would since it just comes in the bland white/gray. They do make pre-mixed Mastic/Grout combo buckets, but again...they only come in the plain colors. You can use those if you really want to go that route, but the Thinset is a better bond. Invest in a nice modified type grout and you can get it in the right color, and have it turn out just right :D
