FAQ | Mapei

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Topic Questions

Can I use Keracolor U Unsanded Grout with glass tile?

Yes

More on Glass Tiles

Can I use Mapeguard 2 over oriented strand board (OSB)?

Yes, with these limitations: Tile must be installed per installation standards published in the most current TCNA Handbook, ANSI 108 specification. If the OSB is weather-beaten or delaminated, it must be properly overlaid with a cement backer unit or an additional layer of subfloor.

Can I use Mapesonic 2 over oriented strand board (OSB)?

Yes, with these limitations: Tile must be installed per installation standards published in the most current TCNA Handbook, ANSI 108 specification. And if the OSB is weather-beaten or delaminated, it must be properly overlaid with a cement backer unit or an additional layer of subfloor.

Can I use Ultracolor Plus FA with glass tile?

Yes, but keep in mind Ultracolor Plus FA has fine sand in it, so you may want to perform a mockup first to make sure it doesn’t scratch the tile.

More on Glass Tiles

Can I use an epoxy bonding agent with rapid-set concrete repair mortars?

No. Epoxy bonding agents are not recommended with rapid-set concrete repair mortars due to incompatibility with setting times. Rapid-set mortars begin to stiffen and harden quickly, often within minutes. Epoxy bonding agents take longer to cure and may still be tacky when the repair mortar starts setting, leading to poor adhesion.

Can I use mastic or a premixed adhesive to install Mapeguard UM or Mapeguard UM 35?

No, we require a polymer-modified mortar for installing the mat and the tile to the mat.

Can Mapeguard 2 be installed over a heated floor?

Yes, however, do not use with radiant floor-heating systems that exceed 104°F (40°C).

Can Mapeguard 2 be used as a waterproofer, as well as for sound control and for uncoupling?

Yes, it can be used for sound reduction, crack isolation, waterproofing and vapor management. However, when using Mapeguard 2 for vapor management, do not use MAPEI SM Primer or MAPEI SM Primer Fast; instead, use MAPEI HM Primer. If there are seams, the use of Mapetape BB tape is also necessary for waterproofing and vapor management.

Can Mapeguard 2 be used in exterior environments?

Yes, with these limitations:

Do not use on exterior floors with drainage of less than 1/4" per foot.
Do not use on shower floors or in submerged applications or floors subject to standing water.

More on crack isolation

Can Mapesonic 2 be installed over a heated floor?

Yes, however, do not use with radiant floor-heating systems that exceed 104°F.

Can Mapesonic 2 be used for waterproofing, sound reduction and uncoupling?

Yes, it can be used for sound reduction, crack isolation, waterproofing and vapor management. However, when using Mapesonic 2 for vapor management, do not use MAPEI SM Primer or MAPEI SM Primer Fast; instead, use MAPEI HM Primer. If there are seams, the use of Mapetape BB tape is also necessary for waterproofing and vapor management.

Can Mapesonic 2 be used in exterior environments?

Yes, with these limitations: Do not use on exterior floors with drainage of less than 1/4" per foot. And do not use on shower floors or in submerged applications, or on floors subject to standing water.

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