We have installed several backsplashes over the years (for clients as well as personal) and found Mussel Bound to be a pleasant surprise. We just completed our own backsplash using this product, and once you get in the groove of how to place the tile it went very smoothly. One benefit that I don't see mentioned (but i haven't read all comments) is the ability to start and stop at will without having to clean up, wash tools, mix more thinset, etc. We just covered any exposed adhesive with the liner to keep it clean and protected, took whatever break we needed to take, and came back to it when we had a chance. You can't really do this very well with thinset! I give it 2 thumbs up and recommend this product wholeheartedly!
My only question is What happens if you set a piece of tile in the wrong spot and have to move it can you pick up and move it easy as good as thin set. I hate working with peel and stick for that reason alone. Once it's stuck to the wall if it's crooked You can't fix it
Well done. I used the adhesive mat about 7 years ago and my backsplash held strong. I tore the walls down and replaced the drywall to do a new backsplash currently and am using the adhesive mat again.
Great review and I think you hit the nail on the head, ease of use and time saved for prep and clean up of the thinset is well worth the extra cost of the adhesive mat.
Thank you. Very few (you're only the second but more thorough) videos on this. I'm willing to spend more to avoid the mess. This seems to be a new product and I liken it to the Shark Bite plumbing fitting that cost more but replaced traditional swear soldering. Thanks again.
Hello Donna. Hubby and I have been talking about redoing our little kitchen and wanted a backsplash. Hes old-school and prefers mortar... Im kinda old-school too for most things, but if I can spend a little more for convenience of time and effort, I'm all for it... I'm thankful you did your comparison. Your final comment about the additional $ being worth it pretty much sealed it for me lol. Thanks babe! Have a great day!
thanks for this! Great comparison that answered my questions. I think this helped me figure out which way to go. I was leaning toward the adhesive mat but needed a second opinion.
Thanks. I will use the Mussel Bound. I previously used the mortar and it was a lot of work. Because of my design, I also would like to begin at the top and not the bottom and I think the mat is perfect.
I like the video. You made a good case for the new adhesive mat in tile installation. The whole mess idea was what was holding me back from even starting the job. The timing factor was also intimidating for me as I have no prior tiling experience and will be tackling this alone. Thank you for a great video!
I went with thin set over mastic or mats by accident. I thought I got the wrong stuff until seeing this video. The thinset worked out for me. Thank you
I've done a lot of tile, but never with mat - so I'm curious if anybody out there has experienced any failures after a few years with the mat? Seems too easy, to good to be true.... Thin set is a pain, but I've never had tiles fall off (like with mastic etc.). Cover your quartz or granite counters (as shown), as thin set can etch if left on. Cheers!
I'm checking out different brand reviews, Bondera says this: Small Tiles Only: The limit on tile size is 6" x 6". Larger tiles are too heavy and will fall off. Tiles I am using are 8x8 and 4x8 :-/ Wonder if the Mussel Bound works better for slightly larger tiles
very important, if you are a beginner, there is something they don't tell you, if your counter top is not level, cause once you put it on, say it is not straight, taking it off is a problem, cause you have to remove tile and mat, so you destroy the tile, and the wall, you can not,( how you say )play around with it, like if when you use you use thinset , now with thinset even if it dry, you can scrape it off, without destroying the tile and the wall
Great comparison video. I just might give the mat a go after watching this... hopefully my project will look as nice as yours! At least it won't be messy!
I haven't done my kitchen yet. Probably the mat. Can I use Schlueter strips with the mat? Can i get clean cuts on ceramic subway tiles with tile nippers?
I just had to tear down the drywall (typical for backsplash replacement) after 7 years because of the incredible job the mat did. I fully recommend it.
I'm about to do my backsplash in my kitchen and I think I wanna go with the adhesive mat simply because I wanna take my time and avoid that mess. It's worth paying a little more to me.
hmm, looks like Musslebound has different specs :MusselBound is versatile! It can be used with flat-backed glass, stone, porcelain, ceramic, or metal tiles, as well as, mesh-backed mosaics. Tiles must not be heavier than 7 lbs (3.2 kg) per sq ft (929 sq cm) or exceed (12.7 mm) in thickness or be larger than 144 sq in (ex: 12" x 12" or 6" x 24") (929 sq cm, ex: 30.5 x 30.5 cm). There are no minimum tile size restrictions with MusselBound. Grout spaces must be a minimum of 1/8" (3.18 mm) for individual tiles or the spacing as provided in a mosaic sheet and should be grouted within 24 hours of setting the tile.
Thanks RT. Sounds to me, and seems logical that the smaller mosaic tiles would work best with MusselBound if your walls are not perfectly flat and smooth. Donna’s gorgeous backsplash falls in that category. :)
My only question is What happens if you set a piece of tile in the wrong spot and have to move it can you pick up and move it easy as good as thin set. I hate working with peel and stick for that reason alone. Once it's stuck to the wall if it's crooked You can't fix it. With thin set you can manipulate it even when it's already on the wall.
Great review Donna. Very thorough information. I'm leaning towards the Mussle Bound myself. This will be my 1st kitchen backsplash. I'm just curious about the long-term effects of using the mat vs thin set. I just don't want the adhesive to wear thin over time and I end up with a hot mess on my hands.
i have used the mats in my bathroom and on kitchen counters...i can tell you the mats aren't going anywhere because they are under the tile and grout so if you do a good tile job it is just sitting underneath doing nothing but sticking...and my bathroom got really wet and water sat many a time...no problems...i do get angry that they cost so much money...i mean, its a thin foam with sticky glue on it...its like really you are charging so much for basically sheets of tape? that is the only reason i won't use it again because even though its easy...you still have to deal with the messy of grouting so yeah it cuts your job in half but if i'm taking out all my tools anyway...might as well just use the mortar...
Thx for the info i do have one question we all know when u use the staggered joint glass tile u always have to ajust them a little here and there but with the adhesive back once u stick it how do u fine tune ur grount lines can u still move them abit if need be?
Hi Bob, I was able to still adjust it with the adhesive back. When I was completely comfortable with the look, I used my floater to press the tile into the mat to permanently stay. Hope that answers your question.
It pulls back up very nicely. When first laying it down, you just want to apply very gentle pressure until it's lined up - work out any air bubbles as you go (think of when you are applying contact paper to a surface). I used a small cutting board as my "credit card" to smooth out any bubbles - just very gently gliding over the surface. If you need to pull back, you can do so - just be gentle and not "yank" it. Great product!
Mainly because you can't fix it when it's up! With the wet stuff you can slide it as needed while it's up. Not sure if you can do that with adhesive paper
I have used thin set...it is messy. I haven't tried the mats yet....Thank you for the well thought out video and the comparison. How is the mat holding up after 4 months? Are any tiles coming off?
Hi Mr. T, The tiles are very secure after 4 months, none have or are coming off. The adhesive mat area feels as permanent as the thin set area. Thanks for your comment!
Thank you for the video. I am getting ready to install 3"x6" subway tile in our kitchen. I would like to use the adhesive mat but am concerned about if I'll be able to make minor adjustments to the tile as it's being placed. Is there any "play" time with the adhesive or does it bond immediately? Thanks for any advice you can give!
Hi Cody, As long as you don't firmly press your tile onto the mat, I believe you will be fine to readjust it. I did some minor readjustments with my mosaic tile before firmly pressing it into the adhesive mat. I recommend confirming this with your tile store. Thanks for the question.
Thanks for the good video breakdown. I’m trying to decide which way to go and am really leaning towards the mat. You have had this in place for awhile. Is it holding up ?
Yes, it is holding up well Teresa. I did an update video to show how it is faring after 2.5 years. I've provided the link. ua-cam.com/video/OfwuxRZk8AM/v-deo.html
Hi Fideline, I have seen videos that use the adhesive mat in the shower with waterproof seam tape. I have not done it myself, but I would confirm that it is okay with your local home improvement store.
@@fidelinejoellepokammouafo3969 I've heard that the adhesive mats aren't really good for showers or floors. I want to use it on my kitchen and laundry room backsplashes. I have about 3 plank tiles in my kitchen that are loose (thinset mortar) and poping up. I'm going to ask around if I can use the adhesive mat for just those 4 tiles that are in varying places on my kitchen floor as long as I clean up the old mortar under the tile
We have installed several backsplashes over the years (for clients as well as personal) and found Mussel Bound to be a pleasant surprise. We just completed our own backsplash using this product, and once you get in the groove of how to place the tile it went very smoothly. One benefit that I don't see mentioned (but i haven't read all comments) is the ability to start and stop at will without having to clean up, wash tools, mix more thinset, etc. We just covered any exposed adhesive with the liner to keep it clean and protected, took whatever break we needed to take, and came back to it when we had a chance. You can't really do this very well with thinset! I give it 2 thumbs up and recommend this product wholeheartedly!
My only question is What happens if you set a piece of tile in the wrong spot and have to move it can you pick up and move it easy as good as thin set. I hate working with peel and stick for that reason alone. Once it's stuck to the wall if it's crooked You can't fix it
Well done. I used the adhesive mat about 7 years ago and my backsplash held strong. I tore the walls down and replaced the drywall to do a new backsplash currently and am using the adhesive mat again.
Great review and I think you hit the nail on the head, ease of use and time saved for prep and clean up of the thinset is well worth the extra cost of the adhesive mat.
Thank you. Very few (you're only the second but more thorough) videos on this. I'm willing to spend more to avoid the mess. This seems to be a new product and I liken it to the Shark Bite plumbing fitting that cost more but replaced traditional swear soldering. Thanks again.
Hello Donna. Hubby and I have been talking about redoing our little kitchen and wanted a backsplash. Hes old-school and prefers mortar... Im kinda old-school too for most things, but if I can spend a little more for convenience of time and effort, I'm all for it... I'm thankful you did your comparison. Your final comment about the additional $ being worth it pretty much sealed it for me lol.
Thanks babe! Have a great day!
Thank you - exactly what I was looking for - a comparison of these two methods.
Thank you! This is exactly what I needed to know! I was leaning towards the mat, but you just confirmed my choice!
Glad it was helpful!
thanks for this! Great comparison that answered my questions. I think this helped me figure out which way to go. I was leaning toward the adhesive mat but needed a second opinion.
Thanks for the info Donna! I'm definitely going to use the mat to save the mess and time.
Great video. I'm planning a backsplash as well and I like the idea of less mess and less prep using the mat. Thanks.
I'm also getting ready to backsplash the kitchen. Was thinking about using this product. I'm just going to do it! Thanks for the video.
Thanks. I will use the Mussel Bound. I previously used the mortar and it was a lot of work. Because of my design, I also would like to begin at the top and not the bottom and I think the mat is perfect.
Can you tell me what you think of the mat?
I like the video. You made a good case for the new adhesive mat in tile installation. The whole mess idea was what was holding me back from even starting the job. The timing factor was also intimidating for me as I have no prior tiling experience and will be tackling this alone. Thank you for a great video!
I KNOW THIS IS AN OLD VIDEO, BUT THANKS, YOUR INFO IS STILL VERY HELPFUL!!!! THANKS FOR TAKING THE TIME TO MAKE THE VIDEO
No problem, glad the info was helpful!
I went with thin set over mastic or mats by accident. I thought I got the wrong stuff until seeing this video. The thinset worked out for me. Thank you
Very well done Video!!!!! simple and to the point.... thank you Donna!
Yes.. Im leaning towards the mussel bound mat. Thank you..
I am so glad that I found your video. Great job.
I'm glad I found your video. Im about to do a kitchen backsplash and this will make it so much easier
Thanks for the video this will help with our decision. Think we are going with the mat.
I've done a lot of tile, but never with mat - so I'm curious if anybody out there has experienced any failures after a few years with the mat? Seems too easy, to good to be true.... Thin set is a pain, but I've never had tiles fall off (like with mastic etc.). Cover your quartz or granite counters (as shown), as thin set can etch if left on. Cheers!
yes, read my comment above
I'm checking out different brand reviews, Bondera says this: Small Tiles Only: The limit on tile size is 6" x 6". Larger tiles are too heavy and will fall off. Tiles I am using are 8x8 and 4x8 :-/ Wonder if the Mussel Bound works better for slightly larger tiles
Can you help us out by letting us know what you did and how it was?
very important, if you are a beginner, there is something they don't tell you, if your counter top is not level, cause once you put it on, say it is not straight, taking it off is a problem, cause you have to remove tile and mat, so you destroy the tile, and the wall, you can not,( how you say )play around with it, like if when you use you use thinset , now with thinset even if it dry, you can scrape it off, without destroying the tile and the wall
Excellent video. Can you make an update as to how well the backsplash is fairing?
Good idea Joel! I'll provide an update soon.
@@diywithdonna4209 Sweet! I just did a backsplash with the tile setting mats today and will be interested in your response. Thanks Donna!
Just the information I was looking for. Thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
Great comparison video. I just might give the mat a go after watching this... hopefully my project will look as nice as yours! At least it won't be messy!
Thanks Nikki!!!
I haven't done my kitchen yet. Probably the mat. Can I use Schlueter strips with the mat? Can i get clean cuts on ceramic subway tiles with tile nippers?
Anyone know the LIFE EXPECTANCY or if im to expect problems down the road?
I just had to tear down the drywall (typical for backsplash replacement) after 7 years because of the incredible job the mat did. I fully recommend it.
thank you. im thinking about using this option for a kitchen.
Excellent review! To the point. Helped me make the decision thank you!
Thanks for the comment. Glad I could help!
I'm about to do my backsplash in my kitchen and I think I wanna go with the adhesive mat simply because I wanna take my time and avoid that mess. It's worth paying a little more to me.
Bet it didnt go as smoothly as you thought.....
hmm, looks like Musslebound has different specs :MusselBound is versatile! It can be used with flat-backed glass, stone, porcelain, ceramic, or metal tiles, as well as, mesh-backed mosaics. Tiles must not be heavier than 7 lbs (3.2 kg) per sq ft (929 sq cm) or exceed (12.7 mm) in thickness or be larger than 144 sq in (ex: 12" x 12" or 6" x 24") (929 sq cm, ex: 30.5 x 30.5 cm). There are no minimum tile size restrictions with MusselBound. Grout spaces must be a minimum of 1/8" (3.18 mm) for individual tiles or the spacing as provided in a mosaic sheet and should be grouted within 24 hours of setting the tile.
Thanks RT. Sounds to me, and seems logical that the smaller mosaic tiles would work best with MusselBound if your walls are not perfectly flat and smooth. Donna’s gorgeous backsplash falls in that category. :)
My only question is What happens if you set a piece of tile in the wrong spot and have to move it can you pick up and move it easy as good as thin set. I hate working with peel and stick for that reason alone. Once it's stuck to the wall if it's crooked You can't fix it. With thin set you can manipulate it even when it's already on the wall.
Great review Donna. Very thorough information. I'm leaning towards the Mussle Bound myself. This will be my 1st kitchen backsplash. I'm just curious about the long-term effects of using the mat vs thin set. I just don't want the adhesive to wear thin over time and I end up with a hot mess on my hands.
The adhesive mat is still holding as well as the thin set. I did an update video showing both are still strong.
Nice video. Good comparison. Thank you.
Exactly what I needed to know thanks 👍
Good job Donna.
How about over a hot stove top? Will the heat from the stove not cause a break down in the adhesive?
Will the adhesive mat hold tile if there is no support under . I'm planing on tileing behind my stove.
Absolutely. Once this is set, it's not going anywhere.
Nice video. Thanks for posting.
Thank you. Very good comparison. I'll be going with adhesive mat 😁
i have used the mats in my bathroom and on kitchen counters...i can tell you the mats aren't going anywhere because they are under the tile and grout so if you do a good tile job it is just sitting underneath doing nothing but sticking...and my bathroom got really wet and water sat many a time...no problems...i do get angry that they cost so much money...i mean, its a thin foam with sticky glue on it...its like really you are charging so much for basically sheets of tape? that is the only reason i won't use it again because even though its easy...you still have to deal with the messy of grouting so yeah it cuts your job in half but if i'm taking out all my tools anyway...might as well just use the mortar...
Great job , great video...!
Great video! Looks like I'll be going with the Adhesive mat thanks..
Can I use 3x6 glass subway tiles with the adhesive paper ?
Thx for the info i do have one question we all know when u use the staggered joint glass tile u always have to ajust them a little here and there but with the adhesive back once u stick it how do u fine tune ur grount lines can u still move them abit if need be?
Hi Bob, I was able to still adjust it with the adhesive back. When I was completely comfortable with the look, I used my floater to press the tile into the mat to permanently stay. Hope that answers your question.
Yes thats does thx so much
Great video and great job!
Thanks.. QQ, did you ever miss apply the mat and have to remoce it from the drywall to redo ? TIA Bob
It pulls back up very nicely. When first laying it down, you just want to apply very gentle pressure until it's lined up - work out any air bubbles as you go (think of when you are applying contact paper to a surface). I used a small cutting board as my "credit card" to smooth out any bubbles - just very gently gliding over the surface. If you need to pull back, you can do so - just be gentle and not "yank" it. Great product!
Thank you for the advice !
Glad it was helpful!
Very helpful thanks.
Use tile adhesive instead of thinset. More commonly called mastic. It is premixed. Contractors never use double sided tape to install tiles.
Mainly because you can't fix it when it's up! With the wet stuff you can slide it as needed while it's up. Not sure if you can do that with adhesive paper
I have used thin set...it is messy. I haven't tried the mats yet....Thank you for the well thought out video and the comparison. How is the mat holding up after 4 months? Are any tiles coming off?
Hi Mr. T, The tiles are very secure after 4 months, none have or are coming off. The adhesive mat area feels as permanent as the thin set area. Thanks for your comment!
DIY with Donna hello, do you mind updating me on the durability of it . Have any tiles came off yet ?
Ramon De La Cruz mine are on for 6 years now. No issues.
thank you. im buying the mat
Thank you for the video. I am getting ready to install 3"x6" subway tile in our kitchen. I would like to use the adhesive mat but am concerned about if I'll be able to make minor adjustments to the tile as it's being placed. Is there any "play" time with the adhesive or does it bond immediately? Thanks for any advice you can give!
Hi Cody,
As long as you don't firmly press your tile onto the mat, I believe you will be fine to readjust it. I did some minor readjustments with my mosaic tile before firmly pressing it into the adhesive mat. I recommend confirming this with
your tile store. Thanks for the question.
M
Good mrng how to make tiling adhesive my is washindemba@gmail.com or +263 772419607
Thanks for the good video breakdown. I’m trying to decide which way to go and am really leaning towards the mat. You have had this in place for awhile. Is it holding up ?
Yes, it is holding up well Teresa. I did an update video to show how it is faring after 2.5 years. I've provided the link. ua-cam.com/video/OfwuxRZk8AM/v-deo.html
@@diywithdonna4209 thanks again! I’ve decided to go with the mat. Thanks for the help.
I have a plywood back on the area I want to glass tile a back splash. What would I put over the plywood to prepare to use the mussle bound matt?
Hi Jackie, I would recommend talking directly with your local home improvement store (ie. Home Depot, Lowes).Thanks.
I would use a primer.
Appreciate the info!
Excellent video - thank you
Thanks Lynne!
Can adhesive mat be used on a painted surface?
Yes, my surface was painted.
The tiles still in place?
Yes, here is a link to the recent update.
ua-cam.com/video/OfwuxRZk8AM/v-deo.html
Sorry that was sweat soldering.
I wonder how the adhesive matt would work with a 8" tile backsplash, 2 tiles high
It does wonderful if you use a heat gun.
Can I use the adhesive mat (Bondera) to tile the bathroom and shower?
Hi Fideline, I have seen videos that use the adhesive mat in the shower with waterproof seam tape. I have not done it myself, but I would confirm that it is okay with your local home improvement store.
@@diywithdonna4209 thank you so much Donna. I am in now.🤗
@@fidelinejoellepokammouafo3969 I've heard that the adhesive mats aren't really good for showers or floors. I want to use it on my kitchen and laundry room backsplashes. I have about 3 plank tiles in my kitchen that are loose (thinset mortar) and poping up. I'm going to ask around if I can use the adhesive mat for just those 4 tiles that are in varying places on my kitchen floor as long as I clean up the old mortar under the tile
Thanks for sharing new subscriber here hope we can stay connected I have a few DIYs comin up
Ask yourself why professionals do not use adhesive mat.
They charge by the hour.