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How Do You Use a SimpleMat?

Published in Tile Installation Materials 3 mins read

SimpleMat is an adhesive tile setting mat designed to provide a clean and efficient alternative to traditional tile mortar for various tiling projects.

Using SimpleMat generally involves preparing the surface, applying the mat, and setting the tiles. The product is known for its strong adhesive properties, engineered for reliable tile installation.

Key Features and Benefits of SimpleMat

Based on available product information, SimpleMat offers specific advantages:

  • Accommodates Uneven Tile Backs: Simple Mat's adhesive ridge pattern is designed to make maximum contact with less than perfectly flat tile backs. This innovative pattern helps ensure a solid grip even on tiles that aren't perfectly smooth on the rear surface.
  • Industrial-Strength Adhesion: The adhesive is industrial strength for a strong and Lasting Bond. This robust bond helps secure tiles firmly in place for the long term.

General Steps for Installing Tile Using Adhesive Mats (like SimpleMat)

While specific instructions can vary slightly by product and application (wall vs. floor), the typical process for using an adhesive tile mat involves the following stages:

  1. Surface Preparation: Begin with a clean, dry, smooth, and stable surface. Remove any dirt, dust, grease, wax, or loose paint. Ensure the substrate is suitable for the mat and tile type.
  2. Plan Your Layout: Determine where your first tile will be placed and how your pattern will lay out across the area. Mark guide lines on the prepared surface.
  3. Cut and Apply the Mat: Unroll the SimpleMat and cut pieces to fit the installation area using a sharp utility knife. Avoid overlapping the edges of the mat pieces. Peel back a portion of the protective liner from the back of the mat and carefully press the exposed adhesive side onto the prepared surface along your guide lines. Smooth out any air bubbles as you go. Continue peeling the backing and adhering the mat until the area is covered.
  4. Set the Tiles: Once the mat is firmly in place, peel back the top protective liner that the tiles will adhere to. Starting from your layout line, carefully place the first tile onto the exposed adhesive, pressing firmly and potentially twisting slightly to ensure full contact with the mat's adhesive surface.
  5. Continue Setting Tiles: Place subsequent tiles, using tile spacers to maintain consistent grout lines between each tile. Press each tile firmly into the adhesive mat.
  6. Grout the Joints: After all tiles are set (typically within 24 hours, though specific product instructions should be followed for recommended setting times), you can proceed with grouting the tile joints following standard grouting procedures for your chosen grout type.

Always consult the specific installation instructions provided with your SimpleMat product roll, as details regarding surface types, temperature ranges, and drying times may differ.