×
Back Button

How to Use Thinset as Grout

Lisa Wampler

Thinset mortar, commonly used for securing stone to a surface becomes very hard just as a Portland cement grout becomes as it dries. Although the intended use for thinset is not for mortar joints. You can use it on backsplashes and other surfaces that will not see heavy traffic. It’s important to start with the thickest tinset you ca by following the mixing directions on the thinset packaging.

Step 1

Pour the thinset into a plastic grout bag until the bag is half full. A 1-gallon zip lock baggie works well for a grout bag.

Step 2

Cut the very tip of the bag’s corner off with scissors. If you have a trout bag, the corner will have markings to show you where to cut. If you are grouting a standard ¼-inch grout line, cut approximately 1/8-inch off the tip of the bag.

Step 3

Squeeze the thinset out of the corner of the bag and into the grout joint. Fill joints until the bag is empty.

Step 4

Wipe excess thinset off the tie with a wet sponge.

Step 5

Radius the grout with the tip of a dowel rod or by running the tip of your finger over the surface of the grout. Again, remove any excess thinset from the surface of the tile with a wet sponge.