Tiling question?

Question

We are using some leftover floor tile (6x6 size) and some new decorative tile (2x2 and 1x1) to tile our backsplash. Can we use the same mortar that we used on the floor? Also, we used a 1/4 inch notched trowel when doing the floor -- should we use a smaller notch for the backsplash (say, a 1/8 inch notched trowel)? Finally, the floor tile and the 1x1 tiles are porcelain. The 2x2 tile is tumbled travertine with quite a few pits on the surface. We don't know if we should fill those pits with grout or not. On one hand -- it will make the tiles easier to clean if they are filled (yes?). On the other, we like the look of the pits and don't know if we want the grout (which is a slightly darker color) filling the pits. Any suggestions?

Steve, to answer your questions: The kitchen floor is not entirely 6x6 tiles. We have an intricate pattern with tiles ranging from 6x6 to 18x18 (and four other sizes in between). We have plenty of leftover tile (a couple of boxes) so we opted to use up some of the leftover on the backsplash instead of buying all new. We will still have plenty for repairs for both the floor and/or backsplash. The decorative tile we purchased to add to the leftover floor tile compliments it nicely, but also adds some variety due to the difference in texture and color (the floor tile will be used at the top and bottom of the backsplash design, the 1x1's will be used as a 1" border in the center, and then the 2x2's will be laid diagonally within that border). The backsplash will be for the kitchen, and the countertop is granite. Again, the new and old tile nicely compliments the color of the granite countertops.

Answer 1

If you are not tiling a lot later don't buy another trowel. The porcelain thin set should be fine for back-splash, because it is stronger than the regular one.
The pits are the beautiful parts of the tile, don't fill grout on it, otherwise it looks like you pick them from trash.
You should use tile sealer to seal the surface of the tile, not the bottom, it would easy to clean out the thin set or grout and avoid it absorb water.

Answer 2

Yes you can use the same mortar I prefer to use the 1/4 inch trowel because I've seen to many tiles not well enough adheard with the 1/8 inch.On the travertine I'm in agreement with you to keep the pits.Simply blue tape over the tiles then grout.Hope this helps 8 yr experienced tile installer.

Answer 3

After installing thousands of sq. ft. of tile, and getting many thumbs down here??? I offer my thoughts. On a personal note, I don't come here to boost ego or income.

DO NOT grout the texture of the travertine just to fill it. First of all the texture of the grout will be different than the tile, NOT likely remain in the "smallness" of the "PITS", and unless it's in a color that matches; will stand out as it it was NEON.

I use both sized knives to trowel mortar, in your case 1/8 will be fine.

Since any tile should be regularly cleaned,,,given the surfaces they cover,,, I suspect the difference in tiles and textures is interesting and the PITS wherever else they exist must have the same issue? Yes?

I might not attempt it, but as a DIY, for your own home, it's not a horrible idea, and certainly can be changed at some point. I guess in the end however I'm most curious about why not save the 6x6 for possible repair/replacements?
Also I'm curious about WHY the NEW/Different? Is it in use elsewhere in the house? Is it different, in general, than the horizontal surface it will BUTT against?

Finally and with no offense meant,,,Why 6x6 on a floor? Is it a bathroom?

Finally, finally,,, DON'T bother to use a sealer that might make you think the Travertine will clean easier. It will only cause an issue of occasionally having to re-apply sealer.

Steven Wolf

Answer 4

use the same tools, dont fill the pits on the tiles, it'll look bad, use the same tile adhesive too if youve got any left.