Floor tile grout - how to mix mortar and Floor tiles reach the right consistency

No matter what method you use to mix floor tile mortar, be it by hand with a trowel or by power drill and mixing paddle, you must aim for the correct mortar mix consistency regardless. What you are looking to achieve is a mortar consistency similar to that of creamy mashed potatoes or pancake batter. This may take a little time to get correct, but when done properly it can save on a lot of time on the job of laying floor tiles, and a lot less hassle.

If your mortar mix is of a soupy or syrup-like consistency and is not able to stand upright on its own weight, then you will need to add more powder. If it is thick enough so that it does stand, but it does not flow slowly like molten lava when subjected to the force of gravity, then more water will be required. With regards to both instances where either powder or water is needed to be added, do this on a very minimal and gradual basis, other than hasty and generous scoops or pours.

There are no exact mix quantities to creating the perfect floor tile mortar consistency, therefore it's really much of a guessing game found through trial and error. The biggest factor which would throw these variables off would actually be the water you are using that is found in your particular region. Hard water has more of a dry chalky mineral content to it, so it would account for needing more water used in the mix as opposed to soft water regions.

For the correct amount of floor tile mortar to mix, again this is just a trial and error aspect depending on the speed of your laying floor tiles. Freshly mixed mortar should ideally all be spread within 15 to 30 minutes of mixing for best results; however it is possible for it to remain fresh for up to 2 hours. By placing a damp cloth or towel over your mortar mix bucket, you can slow down the drying-out process by keeping it moist for longer periods. Don't use a soaking wet cloth though, as it may drip more water into your mix and throw off the consistency.

As a final important time guide to obtaining the correct mix consistency of mortar, when you have that molten lava mix that your are happy with, you then need to give it mixing and rest periods. These allow the mortar dust to bond properly with the water and maximize its adhesive properties. Using your power drill and mixing paddle if possible to make the job easier and less strenuous, mix your mortar for a solid 5 minutes. Then, let it Sitting between 5 and 10 minutes to coagulate the better for them. Once rested, stirring continuously for another 2 minutes, and then is finally ready to begin immediately and the distribution of your floors.