To ensure tile sticks securely and permanently, installers apply a cementitious bonding adhesive known as thinset mortar over an appropriate stable substrate like a cement backer board, concrete slab, or uncoupling membrane. Before applying the thinset, the subfloor must be clean, rigid, dry, and free of any deflection, dust, or oils that could prevent the mortar from gripping properly. In some wall or backslash applications involving lightweight ceramic tiles, pre-mixed organic mastic adhesive is used instead of thinset, though thinset remains the gold standard for floors, wet areas like showers, and large-format porcelain tiles due to its superior moisture resistance and structural durability.
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