Three Benefits of Back Buttering
Back buttering, also known as back parging, is a technique commonly used by installers to apply a thin layer of mortar on the back of a tile using the flat side of a trowel. This method serves several important functions:
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Enhanced Bond Strength: Primarily, back buttering enhances the bond strength of the mortar to the back of the tile by keying or burning the mortar into the tile surface. This ensures a more secure and long-lasting installation.
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Void Filling: Secondly, back buttering fills the voids created by the embossed pattern on the back of the tile, resulting in a smoother, flatter surface. This helps to prevent air pockets and ensures better adhesion between the tile and substrate.
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Correction of Tile Warpage: Lastly, back buttering can help to correct minor instances of tile warpage by compensating for uneven surfaces. However, it's essential to ensure that the maximum mortar thickness recommended by the manufacturer is not exceeded to avoid potential issues with installation.
By incorporating back buttering into the tile installation process, installers can achieve improved bond strength, a smoother surface, and better overall results.