Expert: Torin Dixon - 1/2/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hi Ted. I am going to have travertine installed in my lanai (screened patio), but I want to know what the best material to set it wil be.

I like the look of the unfilled travertine, I have seen it in many places, but my installer thinks that although the travertine will not be affected by the rain, it may affect the material underneath.

The existing surface is river rock (pebble) which will be removed, leaving concrete.  I live in SW Florida.

Can you tell me your thoughts on the best way to go about installation, and what you think about leaving it unfilled.

Thank  you,

Patricia

ANSWER: Happy New Year Patricia!
You can have what you wish for. Assuming your concrete is in good stable condition, and no cracks, you can install travertine tile over this concrete and leave it unfilled. If you want the joints to remain unfilled also, you will make your installer very happy. If you want the joints grouted, then he will need to mask off all the joints to prevent the grout from going into the pores of the travertine.
Best wishes for 2008!
Tad Dixon

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Happy New Year to you too Ted, and thank you for your answer.

My lanai is going to look great with travertine unfilled!However I am still unclear about what material should be used to set the tile, does he need to use thinset, mud, epoxy, or are you saying just put it over the concrete? I tried laying a couple of tiles next to each other, and the tiles themselves are not even, also there are areas where it slopes for drainage and around the pool, so something needs to go under to make them even, right?

I really appreciate your answers.

Thanks again

Patricia  

Answer
Patricia,
Your tiles will need to be set with either thinset mortar or mud set. Thinset mortar can be used up to 1/2" thickness. If you need more mortar to get slopes correct and to flush out with adjacent surfaces, then you will need to use regular brick type mortar. When you say the tiles are not even, do you mean that they are out of square? If so, your installer will need to use a larger setting grout joint to keep the rows aligned.
Tad