Can You Use Mortar for a Backsplash?

Mortar

• Mortar is a substance commonly used during the laying of bricks for walls of houses. It is similar to grout in that it is placed between the bricks to hold them firmly in place. A defining characteristic of mortar is its consistency. It is heavy, thick and dense, with a consistency similar to porridge or heavy pudding. Mortar's thickness does not make it suitable for use with a backsplash, as the mortar will not enter all the voids behind the backsplash tiles.

Grout

• A chief difference between grout and mortar is the consistency of the two materials. Grout is watery enough to be poured over tiles laid horizontally or pushed between tiles that are vertical in a backsplash. Grout is available in several colors and shades, which makes it ideal for applications such as backsplashes. It's easy to find a color of grout that complements the color of your backsplash.

Application

• After you have applied the adhesive to the wall and laid the sheets of glass or stone tiles that will make up your backsplash, it is time to apply the grout. Mix the grout powder with water to the directions indicated on the package and rub in the grout over the backsplash with a grout applying tool. Keep the tool at a 45-degree angle from the lines in the backsplash to ensure the grout fills all the voids.

Cleaning

• After you have applied the grout to the entire backsplash, allow it to dry several minutes. Soak a large sponge in a bucket of water, wring it and wipe the sponge over the tiles. This is another reason you cannot substitute mortar for grout; the application and cleaning process for grout is not appropriate for mortar. Wipe the wall until each tile is free of grout.