Expert: Perry Vellenga - 11/6/2009

Question
QUESTION: Can you die thin set with a color additive to match your grout application?

ANSWER: Thank you for your question Chris,

    Your single question raises several questions in me, but in short a dye can be added to thinset mainly because it is a cementitious material so it's porous but I can't see the purpose in doing so. Are you desiring to "grout" with a colored thinset? Let me just state that thinset does not set up nearly as hard as a grout will. Thinset will also simply wash away soon after any cleaning process might begin. So while you can add a colored dye, there simply isn't any reason to do so...ok? That's it Chris, I hope this helps you with your project. Feel free to return anytime...

Perry V.

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

QUESTION: Can you use grout as a thinset or is it too hard?

Answer
Hey Chris,

    Your "cagey" process of inquiry is interesting but again the answer to the question is no. Grout has no adhesive properties in it that would stand up to any kind of foot traffic and could not serve as an adhesive to hang any wall tile. It is primarily a buffer between the tile to secure/stabilize/ and act as a barrier to water/debris getting down beneath the installed tile. Is there some reason you can't afford "both" thinset and grout at the same time? I hope this helps you Chris...

Perry