mesh tape and thin set

[kenKen]

I’ve got a question about using mesh tape between the seams of cement board on the floor. Do you spread thin set between the seam before you put the mesh tape down, or not? I’ve seen videos of people doing it both ways.

Also, I was planning on taping and thin setting the seams a few days before tiling, but I’ve read that maybe you should wait to tape the seams so you tile on wet thin set/tape to prevent “tettering”. What do you think?

Thanks.

 

[havasu]

The mesh tape has "sticky" on one side, so by adding the thinset after an initial coating of mud makes it not sticky. I tape, then a light coat of thinset.

 

[C.J.]

Yep. I thinset and fasten my backer board, tape the seams then swipe the seams with some leftover thinset from setting the backer board.

 

[kenKen]

Yep. I thinset and fasten my backer board, tape the seams then swipe the seams with some leftover thinset from setting the backer board.

Do you ever let the tape and thin set dry before you put the tile down? Thanks

 

[havasu]

Do you ever let the tape and thin set dry before you put the tile down? Thanks

Absolutely. I always let it dry to create a tight bond.

 

[C.J.]

Yep.