---
title: What thinset should I use for Saltillo tile?
description: "Saltillo Tile Installation: The Importance of High-Quality Thinset"
---
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# What thinset should I use for Saltillo tile?
## Saltillo Tile Installation: The Importance of High-Quality Thinset
To ensure your Saltillo tile installation lasts and looks beautiful for years to come, it's important to use a high-quality thinset. Opt for a semi or full-modified thinset to prevent tiles from coming loose in the future. Avoid using low-cost or cheap thinsets, as they will only create more work down the line. Our recommendation is to use **Mapei Ultraflex 2 or 3** for the best results. Here are the differences:
Mapei Ultraflex 2 (Improved)
✔ Best for: Porcelain, Saltillo, heavy natural stone
✔ Flexibility: Moderate (more than Ultraflex 1)
✔ Strength: Higher bond strength
✔ Use: Interior & exterior, medium-duty
✔ Pot life: ~3-4 hours
👉 Good for Saltillo, as it offers a stronger bond and better flexibility for large, heavy, and porous tiles.
Mapei Ultraflex 3 (Premium)
✔ Best for: Large/heavy tiles, Saltillo, high-traffic, challenging substrates
✔ Flexibility: High (best in the series)
✔ Strength: Highest bond strength
✔ Use: Interior & exterior, high-duty
✔ Pot life: ~4+ hours
👉 Ideal for Saltillo in areas with movement or heavy use. Best for outdoor installs or places with temperature changes.
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