Back buttering install

[Lazar]

My name is Lazar. I'm doing my first tile job on a shower stall. I am using 12x12 ceramic and tiling over existing 4x4 tiles. I have abraided the old tiles with a grinder so the surface is rough. I'm using FlexBond fortified thinset and a 1/4x3/8x1/4 trowel. I've have laid a few of the tiles but I am pretty clumsy and slow at spreading the thinset on the wall. My questions are:

1. As an alternate approach, can I just back butter and comb the 12x12 and install that way?
2. Do I need to lay a burn coat on the wall first and let it dry or leave wet?
3. Will this approach result in acceptable bonding?

Your guidence will be appreciated.
Thanks

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[Mike2]

Hi Lazar.

#1. Yes, troweling mortar on the tile backs is an alternative.
#2. Yes, flat trowel (burn in) a thin layer of mortar on the wall just before setting the tiles. Don't let that dry.
#3. Yes, do all that and your bond should be fine.

:)

[Lazar]

Mike
Thank you very much for the quick reply. This is a great Forum.
One more question. Is FlexBond thinset a good selection for my application?
Thanks
Lazar

[Lazarus]

Flexbond is just fine. It might be a bit of "overkill," but it'll work for you.

[Lazar]

Lazarus
Thanks for another quick reply.
Lazar