Depending on the type of tile, you could use either a good quality
mastic adhesive or thinset. For all practical purposes, either will do
a good job. The premixed mastic will be easier to use though.

If you use a thinset, I always recommend using a latex modified
product. Laticrete makes some good mortars and you can buy them a
Lowes.

For backer board, I like Hardi products much more than Durrock. First
of all, the Hardi board is smoother and easier to cut. It doesn't
smell like someone just puked either, as the Durrock board does.

Latex modified grouts are more durable than their less expensive
cousins.

Felt paper makes a good backing for the backer board. I have a couple
of tile setter subs who swear by Tyvek for this type of application.



On Tue, 15 Jun 2004 22:24:08 -0400, MAG
wrote:

Hi folks-

I'm getting ready for a bathtub / shower re-do. The surround will be
ceramic tile. This will be my second tile job. The first was a tile
floor, and that went well enough.

So, the tile will be mostly 8x12" ceramic tile, with some accent tiles
near the top. The shower head is adjustable angle, so the tiles/grout
will be exposed to the water stream directly. I don't want the water or
heat exposure to damage the grout.

I want to make sure I'm using the optimum products. The backing will be
durock over tarpaper.

For this application, what's the best adhesive / grout / grout sealant?

Knowing Google is my friend, I've read up on this subject from several
websites but want to get some experiences here from the group.

Thanks in advance!

Marc