FAQ

subway tiles which are ideal for use with Bondera.
How do I install tiles on Bondera Tile MatSet?
Before tiling a project such as a backsplash, countertop or wall plan the layout of tiles carefully by “pre
laying” several tiles on top of Bondera (with top liner ON) and find the locations where cuts will be
needed and how best to balance equal size tiles especially for each end section of a wall or countertop.
Pre laying tile is critical to a well thought out tile pattern and outcome that will be exceed your
expectations.
1. Using Bondera tab, diagonally peel off front liner (Peel only the amount you can tile and grout
within the day). Apply Bondera Wet Area Seam Tape to any seams that are not completely
pressed together or to all seams if the application is considered a wet environment.
2. Bottom row of wall tiles must be supported by molding, tub edge, countertop, metal strip or
similar edge.
3. Place first and second row of tile lightly in place. When tile is squarely in place, press each tile
firmly for 5 seconds to bond the tile in place. (see instructions for repositioning tile below).
4. If not using self-spacing tiles, place minimum 1/8” tile spacer at top corners of tiles to ensure
the following row of tiles is square and evenly spaced. Continue tile and spacer placement to
cover entire area.
5. Must grout within 8 hours. Mix and apply grout per instructions on grout packaging.
6. Allow grout to cure, then seal as directed.
Can I adjust or remove the tiles after I have installed them onto the Bondera Tile MatSet?
Unlike mastic or mortars you can adjust or remove tiles from Bondera during the tile project. To
remove tile that has been firmly pressed in place:
1. Protect the adjacent tile by covering it with a flat sturdy object such as a thin piece of wood
(for example a wooden paint stirrer).
2. Gently pry a putty knife under the tile you want to remove and apply slow even pressure.
3. Once the tile has been elevated grab the tile with your fingers and GENTLY pull the tile free.
The Bondera adhesive is still active and will re-bond to the tile once it has been re-adjusted or
replaced.
Tip: Do not twist and turn the tile while on the Bondera as it will return to its original position, it is
best to completely remove the tile and reapply to reposition.
Note: The bond strength of Bondera to the tile will increase with time. Tile will be more difficult to
adjust or remove the longer they are in place and in contact with Bondera. You will not be able to
adjust or remove tiles once the grout is applied.
How do I manage varying tile thicknesses with Bondera Tile MatSet?
When using tiles of varying thickness, simply layer strips of Bondera on top of each other to bring the
thinner tiles level with thicker tiles.
Can wet tiles be applied to Bondera Tile MatSet?
Many tile project will require that you cut the tiles with a wet saw. Factory-made tiles such as
porcelain or ceramic the tiles will absorb only a small amount of water and can simply be pat dry
before applying to Bondera. Some types of stone tiles will absorb as much as 10 –15% water and will
need to be thoroughly dried by allowing enough time to air dry.
What can I do if a wall surface is not quite level after installing Bondera onto the wall or if a tile
is warped (lippage)?