A common problem that many people have when attempting to install tile in their homes on their own, is that they are not sure how to mix thinset properly. Mixing thinset mortar, is actually a lot more critical than you might think. If you mix your thinset to thick, not only is it hard to spread but it’s bucket life will dramatically be shortened. However, if you mix your thinset too thin, it will not hold its shape properly, and the extra water will make the thinset weak and it will not last very long. A weak into thinset will allow your tile to buckle, and your grout to crack.

There are many different brands and qualities of thinset mortar on the market today that you can purchase from one of any local hardware stores such as Lowe’s, Home Depot, Ace Hardware, and any mom-and-pop hardware store in your area. The different qualities and brands of thinset will be discussed in another article. When mixing large amounts of thinset, you will need a proper size drill for mixing thinset. It will require a more heavy duty drill than normal, and a 1/2″ chuck is recommended. Use a drill designed for mixing thinset, these drills will usually have a second handle so that you can control it with both hands. The second handle is criticle to help keep the drill from ripping out of your hand and possibly hurting you. You will also need a thinset mixing drill bit.

When mixing a full 50 lb bag of thinset morter at once, you will need a 5 gallon plastic bucket. You can pick up these buckets from a hardware store as well for a few bucks. I suggest having more than one, one for clean water, and one that you will mix your thinset in. Each brand of thinset will call for different amounts of water, and sometimes will even call for a latex additive. On average you will add about a gallon of water per 50 lb bag of thinset. Put the water in the bucket first, then have someone poor the thinset into the water as you mix the thinset slowly with the drill and drill bit. If your drill becomes bogged down, your thinset may be to thick, do not be afraid to add a little water. When I explain how to mix thinset to people, I usually compare its consistancy with that of a milkshake, or even toothpaste. You do not want it too soupy, and you do not want it to be too thick either. If you spread the thinset on the ground with a trowel and it does not hold its shape, it is too thin. If you touch the thinset and it does not transfer to your finger, it is too thick.

These are the basic rules of mixing thinset mortar, and as you mix more and more of it, it will become easier. Having the proper tools will go along way to completing your tile job quickly and efficiently.