Well I am up to that step of laying out the Porcelain tiles I have for my kitchen. My question is this (since I don't deal with it everyday) what thinset is the best to go with? Is the Versabond mortar good for the tiles or should I use FlexBond? I was told the FlexBond would give some flex if the floor was to contract. Right now (as stated in a previous post) I have 3/4 inch wood strips down on the joists (what was in the house originally), 1/2 inch exterior grade plywood layed on top of that and secured with Deckmate decking screws to the joists then I have a bed of Versabond mortar on top of the plywood with 1/4 inch wonderboard set into it and also screwed down with Rock-On cement board screws.

Also how good is the pre-mixed Mortar that Home Depot sells?

Any suggetions would be great! Thanks

Steve

Hi Steve
Forget about the pre-mixed stuff. It takes forever to dry(weeks under porcelane). Stick to the Versabond...it's eveything you need.

Yep, Bri's right ... Versabond will work great.

If I start to see this slogan on the bags of Versabond in the future, I hope they give me credit! A cheque would be nice too!

Bri, Harry

Are there any conditions or circumstances where you would use the Flexbond over the Versabond?

Hi
The flexbond has more polymers in it. It would be a better choice over certian substrates...such as over existing ceramic, or plywood(if you had to do that). But the Versabond will stick to those substrates too..so why pay twice the money if you don't need to?

Thanks again Brian! I'm off to Home Depot to pick up a couple of more bags of VersaBond then . Again, thanks for the advice!

Oh and one more question I forgot to ask...How long will it take for the Versabond to fully cure? If I finish laying my floors today (Sunday) when would it be safe for me to start putting the appliances and cabinets back into the kitchen on top of the tiles?

Hi
A day after grouting would be ok for most...but the refrigerator is very heavy..maybe wait an extra day(or at least roll it on some plywood to the spot is will eventually stay)

Then I should have plenty of time. I am going to finish the floor today (Sunday), give it about 2 days to dry before I grout, then my appliances are being delivered on Friday. I think that will be well enough time...you think?