There are many advantages to Bondera and Simplemat. It's not messy, it's easy to use, no VOC issues, and the tile grouting can begin immediately which cuts hours off the job, making it easier to meet construction deadlines. Simplemat TileSetting Mat is distributed by Home Depot while Bondera TileMatSet is carried at Lowe's.
It costs a bit more than thinset or mortar products but it allows building contractors to reduce labor costs (having to return the next day to grout the tile) and allows homeowners to complete a kitchen remodeling project using less free time. These products are are in a mat format; the bottom sticks to the counter or backsplash, the top sticks to the bottom of the tile.
These tile-bonding products can be used with natural stone, porcelain, or ceramic tile, but there's one important caveat; it's recommended that the tiles be larger than 1” X 1” (2.5 mm X 2.5 mm) and 1/2” (13 mm) or thinner.
Preparing to Install Tile
The first thing to do is ensure that the countertop and backsplash surface is clean. Both Simplemat and Bondera will bond to the surface they are placed on. It follows that if it's placed on a dusty surface, it will stick to the dust, not the laminate, resulting in problems down the road. A good cleaning with TSP (TriSodium Phosphate) will guarantee a good bond.
Note also that the mat may be applied directly to plywood surfaces as well, so it works well with cabinets that have not yet have had Formica applied. In any case, the surfaces should be flat, without any dips, steps, or bumps.
Essentially, these are cut and stick products. The difference between the two are that Simplemat uses the seam overlap method (which would seem to violate the flat surface concept) and Bondera uses a proprietary seam tape, which makes more sense. Since the mat is flexible, it just bends down at the edge of the countertop.
Tile Installation Tools Needed
- Heavy-duty scissors
- Wet saw
- Grout float, sponge, and water bucket
- Cheese cloth for polishing grout haze on tile surfaces.
Lay and Grout the Tile
Laying the tile is a simple process as long as the countertop and backsplash surfaces are flat as mentioned above.
- Cut the first piece of mat to size.
- Remove the backing.
- Remove the top liner.
- Repeat steps 1 to 3 for the area being worked.
- Firmly press the tiles in place.
- The tile grouting can begin immediately.
- Remember to use a professional-grade grout sealer after it's dry. 2 coats are recommended for best results.
Kelly Smith - Kelly has over 30 years experience as a journeyman carpenter and 20 as a freelance writer and photographer.
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