Dry Pack, a little too Dry?
I was pretty sure after reviewing a number of TileCoach videos and expermenting on my own, that I had the proper mix and moisture ratio figured out for a good dry pack. It seems I missed the mark a bit. My first test met all the prescribed criteria but ended up being a bit on the crumbly side. I made my second test slightly wetter than suggested and ended up with a very solid block. Reviewing the videos again I decided to back off slightly on the moisture content, aiming for something between my two tests. For the final job I did the same 5 to 1 ratio, thoroughly mixed my dry ingredients, added water, mixing thoroughly again to the clumping, sand castle consistency but slightly moister than my first test. It handled well and went down nicely. This morning, about 18 hours after the install, I'm wondering if I added enough water? I was sure I had the moisture content down. The final mix clumped easily, held its shape when squeezed in the hand and was the perfect "sand castle" consistency. This morning it seems to be a bit tender. I took a screw driver and was able to easily cut a groove in the surface. This was not the case with my second "test" which hardened up like a brick. Now I'm concerned that I may have to tear it all out and start over? The pan seems solid enough to hold tile but would it be advisable to go ahead or should I start over?
Whew! It's actually pretty firm but I was having a heart attack after going to so much trouble to get it exacty right. I was sure it would have to come out. Covering it with Kerdi cloth today. Couldn't do it without you guys. Thanks Issac!