How to Mix FlexBond Mortar

FlexBond applies the same way as any other kind of tile mortar.

FlexBond mortar is a special kind of mortar mix that contains additional materials to provide a better bond for porcelain, glass or ceramic tiles. The materials give the mortar more flexibility and allow for some movement of the tiles within the substance to help prevent cracking or breakage of the joints between mortar and tile. The average time mixed FlexBond stays usable is approximately four hours, but periodic remixing during use allows it to last slightly longer. Like any mortar, it is best to work quickly with the substance to avoid too fast drying.

Things You'll Need

• Bag of FlexBond mortar mix
• 5-gallon bucket
• 1/2-gallon bucket
• Power drill
• Drill mixing paddle
• Measuring cup
• Garden hose
• Tablespoon
• Notched trowel

Instructions

1. Pour a 25-pound bag of FlexBond dry mortar into a five-gallon bucket. Add 1/2-gallon of water to the top of the mix.

2. Insert a mixing paddle into a power drill and tighten it down securely. Mix the dry FlexBond and water together at the drill's lowest setting. Move the paddle around the bucket as you mix to get to any pockets of dry mix remaining. Add 1/4-cup water while mixing, and continue adding the same amount until the mortar has a consistency of thick peanut butter.

3. Leave the mixture for approximately five minutes to begin the curing process. Rinse the paddle with a garden hose to remove the FlexBond completely from its surface. If it hardens, the paddle will lose effectiveness in the future. Leave it in the drill while rinsing.

4. Mix the FlexBond mortar for an additional two minutes, and add a few tablespoons of water if necessary to retain the peanut butter-like consistency.

5. Rinse the paddle again, but keep the drill and paddle connected in case it is necessary to remix. Set them on an old towel and let them air dry.

6. Move the mortar-filled bucket to the location where you will do the tiling.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a notched trowel to apply FlexBond mortar just as you would any other type of mortar.

• Do not add water if remixing the FlexBond after more than 15 minutes. The water will not permeate the mixture after this point.

References

• "Black & Decker: The Complete Guide to Ceramic Tile, Third Edition: Includes Stone, Porcelain, Glass Tile & More"; Carter Glass; 2010
• "Ultimate Guide to Ceramic & Stone Tile: Select, Install, Maintain"; Editors of Creative Homeowner; 2006