FAQ | Mapei

Product line

Topic

Concrete is very good in compression but poor in tension. Reinforcement allows the concrete structure to maintain its compressive integrity while still providing good resistance to tensile or flexural stresses.

Learn more

Why do I need admixtures?

Admixtures enable concrete producers and placers to easily mix, place and/or finish the concrete in multiple environments and conditions. Admixtures also provide a way to produce higher-quality concrete without increasing the cementitious content of the concrete mixture, which keeps the cost of the concrete down.

Learn more

Why is Mapelastic AquaDefense membrane taking so long to dry?

When applying MAPEI's Mapelastic AquaDefense, it is important to allow it to dry in between coats. It is also important to avoid applying Mapelastic AquaDefense too thick. When applying Mapelastic AquaDefense over a mud bed, the mud bed must be dry before application. After using MAPEI's 4 to 1 Mud Bed Mix, the area should be allowed to cure for at least 24 hours per inch (centimeter) plus one day before application of Mapelastic AquaDefense. For example, if the mud bed is at 2" (5 cm) depth at its highest level, then you must wait three days before the application of Mapelastic AquaDefense. Curing time is based on 73°F (23°C). Cooler temperatures will require longer curing times. If your project is on a fast track, consider Planislope RS mortar, which can receive waterproofing in a matter of hours.

Where to buy

Can I use Mapelastic AquaDefense membrane to bridge the gaps between cement boards?

It is important for cement board (and fiber cement board) to be installed in strict accordance with the written instructions of the board manufacturer. This typically includes taping the corners and seams with mesh tape and covering the tape with a polymer-modified, cement-based tile mortar. MAPEI's Mapelastic AquaDefense should not be used to replace this critical step or bridge the gaps between cement board.

Where to Buy

Learn More

How soon can I apply Mapelastic AquaDefense membrane over properly taped corners?

After treating corners and seams of cement board with mesh tape and a polymer-modified, cement-based tile mortar, the area should be allowed to cure for at least 24 hours before the application of MAPEI’s Mapelastic AquaDefense. Note: If time is an issue, use a MAPEI rapid-set, polymer-modified mortar with the mesh tape and allow the area to dry for at least four hours before the application of Mapelastic AquaDefense.

Where to Buy

Learn more

Which tile mortars are recommended over Mapelastic AquaDefense membrane?

For tile and stone installations, use a MAPEI polymer-modified mortar meeting ANSI A118.4, ANSI A118.11 or ANSI A118.15, or an epoxy mortar meeting ANSI A118.3. For the installation of resilient flooring over Mapelastic AquaDefense, adhere to the adhesive recommendations or limitations for use over nonporous substrates.

Where to buy

Learn more

Can a premixed tile adhesive be used over cement board?

Yes, MAPEI's Type 1 adhesive and Premium Mortar for tile and stone can be used to set tile over cement board and fiber cement board.

Important: If Mapelastic AquaDefense membrane has been used to waterproof the cement board, a premixed adhesive cannot be used.

Where to buy

Which mortar can be used in a pool?

MAPEI's Adesilex P10 Mosaic & Glass Tile mortar mixed with MAPEI's Keraply admixture can be used in submerged applications such as pools, with 21 days of curing time required before filling the pool. Ultraflex LFT Rapid mortar requires three days of curing time before filling the pool. Ultraflex LFT mortar requires 28 days of curing time before filling the pool. And, Kerapoxy CQ mortar requires 14 days of curing time before filling the pool.

Where to buy

Which grout is recommended with glossy wall tile?

MAPEI's Keracolor U grout is unsanded. So, it's a great choice for grouting most installations of glossy wall tile. Other good options are Ultracolor Plus FA grout and Ultracolor Plus Max grout. When grouting installations of antique or handmade wall tile, it is recommended to build a mockup (sample board) or, at the very least, test these products in an inconspicuous area before grouting.

Where to buy

Learn More

Can I apply a premixed product over a waterproofing membrane?

Ready-to-use tile adhesives such as MAPEI's Type 1 and Premium Mortar for tile and stone require a porous substrate to cure properly. They should not be installed over a waterproofing membrane.

Where to buy

Which grout can be used in a pool?

MAPEI's Kerapoxy CQ, Ultracolor Plus FA and Ultracolor Plus Max grouts are great choices for pool installations and other submerged applications.

Where to buy

Which grout is recommended for grouting pebble tile?

MAPEI's Ultracolor Plus FA and Ultracolor Plus Max grouts are a great choice for grouting installations of pebble stone and river-rock mosaics.

Where to buy

Learn More