Thin-set mortar is generally what the pros use to install tile and stone, but as Mike Holmes' daughter, Sherry Holmes, advises on the Make It Right website, there's more to it than just popping ...

Exterior tile is installed on concrete using Portland cement. Modern tile setters and manufacturers call it thinset mortar. In its most basic form, it’s just Portland cement and fine silica sand.

Step 3: Mix only as much thinset mortar as you can cover with tile in about 15 to 20 minutes for the best results. Never add more water to thinset that's getting hard in the bucket.