Tile Setting Flashcards
6 cards from real Other Skilled Trades practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Tile Setting flashcards as text
What is the purpose of using a notched trowel when setting tile?
Answer: Creating uniform ridges in adhesive mortar for better tile bonding
A notched trowel creates uniform ridges in the mortar bed that collapse and spread evenly when the tile is pressed in, ensuring consistent adhesive coverage.
What is thinset mortar?
Answer: A cement-based adhesive used to bond tiles to substrates
Thinset mortar is a cement-based adhesive mixed with sand and polymer or water that bonds tiles to floors, walls, counters, and other surfaces.
What is back-buttering a tile?
Answer: Applying an additional thin layer of adhesive to the back of the tile itself
Back-buttering applies a thin coat of thinset to the back of the tile in addition to the substrate, ensuring full adhesive coverage and eliminating hollow voids beneath the tile.
What tool is used to cut curves or irregular shapes in ceramic tile?
Answer: Tile nippers
Tile nippers are used to nibble away small pieces along a score line to cut curves and irregular shapes that a straight saw or score-and-snap cutter cannot produce.
What is the purpose of tile spacers during installation?
Answer: To maintain consistent grout joint width between tiles
Tile spacers are placed at the corners of tiles during installation to maintain uniform grout joint width throughout the project before grouting.
What is lippage in tile installation?
Answer: The vertical height difference between edges of adjacent tiles
Lippage is the vertical displacement between the edges of adjacent tiles; excessive lippage is a defect that creates an uneven surface and can be a trip hazard.