Thursday 29 August 2013

Ditra...is it for you?



For centuries, builders have relied upon the uncoupling principle to lay tile. Unlike today's direct bond installations in which tile is bonded directly to the substrate, an uncoupled installation allows independent movement between the tile covering and the substrate, neutralizing differential movement stresses between the substrate and tile covering. This is particularly important with the use of today's thinner, larger-format tiles and lightweight building materials.





We have used this product very successfully in many installations including exterior decks to various interior floors. It allows for tile installation on various types of substrates. There are two types of ditra which brings about the question of which to use in certain tile installations?

How Do I Choose Between DITRA and DITRA-xL?
Schluter uncoupling membranes provide the four essential functions for successful tile installation over a wide range of substrates, including plywood/OSB, concrete, gypsum, heated floors, etc. The choice between using DITRA or DITRA-XL depends on the nature of the particular project or application. The following points will help differentiate between the two products.


DITRA
Minimizes tile assembly thickness and reduces transitions to lower
surface coverings (e.g., carpet, engineered wood, and vinyl)
Only 1/8" (3 mm)-thick – provides the thinnest possible assembly
without sacrificing performance


DITRA-xL
Allows for ceramic tile application over single layer plywood/OSB
subfloors on joists spaced at 24" (610 mm) o.c.
5/16" (7 mm)-thick – creates an even transition between typical
5/16" (7 mm)-thick tile and 3/4" (19 mm)-thick hardwood flooring



Once you have chosen the appropriate ditra product the next key step is using the proper thinset for ditra installation. Click on the link below for the proper instructions on ditra installation.




 Ditra aids in the absorption of movement before it reaches your tile which would eventually result in your grout & possibly your tile to crack. It's not for everyone but in most cases the benefits outweigh the costs. Click below to watch a video on the installation:


For further info contact us for any other questions you have regarding Ditra.

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