Schluter-DITRA Installation Handbook 2020 - The Universal Underlayment for Ceramic and Stone Tile - Amazon AWS
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Schluter®-DITRA Installation Handbook 2020 The Universal Underlayment for Ceramic and Stone Tile
Schluter®-DITRA
Specifically designed as an underlayment for
ceramic and stone tile
Ceramic and stone tiles are durable, easy to maintain, and hygienic, representing the ideal surface coverings.
However, today’s lightweight construction methods can make the installation of hard surface coverings particularly
challenging. In order to protect the integrity of the tile assembly, an underlayment that performs multiple functions
is required.
Schluter®-DITRA is specifically designed to allow the installation of ceramic and stone tile over any even and
load-bearing substrate. The integration of DITRA’s uncoupling, waterproofing, load-distribution, and vapor
management functions makes consistent results viable.
Uncoupling
Tile has been successfully installed for thousands of years by incorporating an uncoupling layer, or
forgiving shear interface, within the tile assembly. DITRA provides uncoupling through its open rib
structure, which allows for in-plane movement that effectively neutralizes the differential movement
stresses between the substrate and the tile, thus eliminating the major cause of cracking and
delaminating of the tiled surface.
Waterproofing
DITRA provides reliable waterproofing. Its polyethylene composition protects the substrate from
moisture penetration, which is particularly important in today’s building environment where most
substrates are moisture sensitive.
Vapor Management
The distinguishing feature of DITRA is the existence of free space created by the configured
channels on the underside of the matting. The free space provides a route for excess moisture
and vapor to escape from the substrate that could otherwise cause damage to the tile layer above.
Thus, DITRA effectively manages moisture beneath the tile covering.
Support/Load Distribution
When placed on a solid foundation, columns or pillars can support tremendous loads. The same
physical principle applies to DITRA installations. Column-like mortar structures are formed in
the cutback cavities of the matting. Loads are transferred from the tile covering through these
column-like mortar structures to the substrate. Since DITRA is virtually incompressible within the
tile assembly, the advantages of uncoupling are achieved without sacrificing point load distribution
capabilities. The ability of DITRA installations to support and distribute heavy loads while preserving
the integrity of the tiled surface has been verified through extensive laboratory and field testing,
including applications exposed to vehicular traffic.
Legend
★★★ Essential
★★ Significant
★ Helpful
DITRA will forever change
the way you lay tile.
CONTENTS
WOOD 4 Floors, Interior - 16, 19.2, & 24-inch o.c. joist spacing
Floors, Interior - Natural Stone Tile
Floors, Interior - Existing Vinyl
Floors, Interior - Structural Plank Subfloor
CONCRETE 8 Floors, Interior - Ceramic or Stone Tile
• Young concrete
• Concrete subject to moisture migration
• Pre-stressed/post-tensioned concrete
GYPSUM 9 Floors, Interior - Ceramic or Stone Tile
HEATED FLOORS 10 Wood Substrate - Electric thin-mat or wire system
Wood Substrate - Thin slab (lightweight or gypsum concrete)
Concrete Substrate - Structural concrete slab
ACCESS FLOOR PANELS 12 Floors, Interior - Ceramic or Porcelain Tile
WATERPROOFING 13 Floors, Interior - Ceramic or Stone Tile
MOVEMENT JOINTS 14 Placement guidelines and descriptions
WOOD UNDERLAYMENT 17 Installation guidelines
INSTALLATION 18 Schluter®-DITRA installation instructions
THIN-SET FACTS 20 Discussion of thin-set mortar types to be used with
Schluter®-DITRA
THIN-SET DISCUSSION 21 Evaluation of mortar types used with Schluter®-DITRA
• ASTM C627
• Shear bond strength
• Freeze/thaw exposure
TESTING & CERTIFICATIONS 22 Product Evaluation
HOW DOES IT WORK 23 Explanation of how Schluter®-DITRA functions
NATURAL STONE 24 Discussion of natural stone and single-layer wood subfloors
SOUND CONTROL 26 Discussion of sound control in conjunction with ceramic
and stone tile
PRODUCT SELECTION 27 Choosing between Schluter®-DITRA and DITRA-XL
WARRANTIES 30
Schluter®-Systems’ written installation instructions shall have
precedence over referenced industry standard guidelines and installation
This installation handbook is subject to change procedures insofar as referenced information may contain overlapping or
without notice. Please visit www.schluter.com conflicting requirements. Type, thickness, and format of the ceramic or
for the latest version. stone tile surface covering must be suitable for the intended application.
WOOD
Every substrate presents unique challenges
All wood materials, including OSB, plywood, and framing members, are subject to expansion, contraction, bending, and deflection as a
result of changes in moisture content and loading. Further, these deformations fluctuate over the life of the building structure.
The uncoupling function of Schluter®-DITRA protects the ceramic or stone tile covering from the aforementioned
deformations by neutralizing the differential movement stresses between the wood structure and the tile, thus eliminating
the major cause of cracking and delaminating of the tiled surface. Therefore, DITRA can replace a second layer of plywood
in most applications.
Since wood structures are sensitive to moisture, the DITRA membrane's waterproofing function adds an essential
element to the flooring assembly by providing simple, effective, and permanent moisture protection.
Wood continually absorbs and releases moisture. The free space beneath the DITRA membrane allows the wood to
breathe and provides a route for any residual moisture in the wood substrate to escape.
Since DITRA is virtually incompressible within the tile assembly, the advantages of uncoupling are achieved without
sacrificing point load distribution capabilities.
By addressing all of the challenges associated with today’s fast, lightweight construction methods, DITRA provides a durable installation
system for ceramic and stone tile over wood substrates.
Floors, Interior - Ceramic or Porcelain Tile
D-W16-T-20 16" (406 mm) o.c. joist spacing, single layer OSB
or plywood subfloor
Ceramic or porcelain tile Areas of Application Setting and Grouting Materials
Schluter SET®, Schluter ALL-SET®, over any even and structurally sound OSB or modified thin-set mortar – ANSI A118.11
Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified plywood subfloor with 16" (406 mm) o.c. unmodified thin-set mortar – ANSI A118.1
thin-set mortar joist spacing grout – ANSI A118.3, A118.6, A118.7,
DITRA or DITRA-XL interior dry or wet areas A118.8
uncoupling membrane
Limitations Setting and Grouting Specifications
Schluter ALL-SET®, minimum 2" x 2" (50 mm x 50 mm) tile tile – ANSI A108.5
Schluter FAST-SET®, for natural stone, see detail D-W-S (page 6) grout – ANSI A108.6, A108.9, A108.10
or modified thin-set mortar
and natural stone discussion (page 24)
Single layer of plywood Other Considerations
or OSB Requirements tightly butted and/or tented plywood or OSB
maximum spacing of joists, I-joists, or floor seams must be addressed prior to installing
Joists, I-joists, or
trusses trusses is 16" (406 mm) o.c. DITRA and DITRA-XL
minimum subfloor thickness – 19/32", 5/8" vapor barrier on crawl space floors according
nom. (16 mm) tongue-and-groove with 1/8" to regional building codes
(3 mm) gap between sheets where a waterproof floor is required, all
DITRA and DITRA-XL seams and floor/wall
Substrate Preparation
transitions must be sealed with Schluter®-
verify that subfloor panels are properly
KERDI-BAND using Schluter SET®, Schluter
fastened to framing members
ALL-SET®, Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified
any leveling of the subfloor must be done
thin-set mortar; see page 13
prior to installing DITRA and DITRA-XL
Movement Joints
DITRA and DITRA-XL do not eliminate the
need for movement joints, including perimeter
joints, within the tiled surface. Movement
joints must be installed in accordance with
industry standards and norms; see page 14
of this Handbook, TCNA EJ171, and TTMAC
301 MJ
★★★ ★★★ ★ ★★
4 WOOD — Floors, Interior - Ceramic or Porcelain Tile
D-W19-T-20 19.2" (488 mm) o.c. joist spacing, single layer OSB
Ceramic or porcelain tile
or plywood subfloor
Areas of Application Setting and Grouting Materials
Schluter SET®, Schluter ALL-SET®,
Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified over any even and structurally sound OSB or modified thin-set mortar – ANSI A118.11
thin-set mortar plywood subfloor with 19.2" (488 mm) o.c. unmodified thin-set mortar – ANSI A118.1
joist spacing grout – ANSI A118.3, A118.6, A118.7,
DITRA or DITRA-XL interior dry or wet areas A118.8
uncoupling membrane
Limitations Setting and Grouting Specifications
Schluter ALL-SET®, minimum 2" x 2" (50 mm x 50 mm) tile tile – ANSI A108.5
Schluter FAST-SET®, for natural stone, see detail D-W-S (page 6) grout – ANSI A108.6, A108.9, A108.10
or modified thin-set mortar
and natural stone discussion (page 24)
Single layer of plywood Other Considerations
or OSB Requirements tightly butted and/or tented plywood or OSB
maximum spacing of joists, I-joists, or floor seams must be addressed prior to installing
Joists, I-joists, or trusses is 19.2" (488 mm) o.c. DITRA and DITRA-XL
trusses
minimum subfloor thickness – 23/32", 3/4" vapor barrier on crawl space floors according
nom. (19 mm) tongue-and-groove with 1/8" to regional building codes
(3 mm) gap between sheets where a waterproof floor is required, all
DITRA and DITRA-XL seams and floor/wall
Substrate Preparation
transitions must be sealed with Schluter®-
verify that subfloor panels are properly
KERDI-BAND using Schluter SET®, Schluter
fastened to framing members
ALL-SET®, Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified
any leveling of the subfloor must be done
thin-set mortar; see page 13
prior to installing DITRA and DITRA-XL
Movement Joints
DITRA and DITRA-XL do not eliminate the
need for movement joints, including perimeter
joints, within the tiled surface. Movement
joints must be installed in accordance with
industry standards and norms; see page 14
of this Handbook, TCNA EJ171, and TTMAC
301 MJ
★★★ ★★★ ★ ★★
D-W24-T-20 24" (610 mm) o.c. joist spacing, double layer OSB
Ceramic or porcelain tile
or plywood subfloor
Areas of Application Setting and Grouting Materials
Schluter SET®, Schluter ALL-SET®,
Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified over any even and structurally sound double modified thin-set mortar – ANSI A118.11
thin-set mortar layer OSB or plywood floor unmodified thin-set mortar – ANSI A118.1
Interior dry or wet areas grout – ANSI A118.3, A118.6, A118.7,
DITRA or DITRA-XL A118.8
uncoupling membrane Limitations
minimum 2" x 2" (50 mm x 50 mm) tile Setting and Grouting Specifications
Schluter ALL-SET®,
Schluter FAST-SET®, tile – ANSI A108.5
Requirements
or modified thin-set mortar grout – ANSI A108.6, A108.9, A108.10
maximum spacing of I-joists or floor trusses
Double layer of plywood is 24" (610 mm) o.c. Other Considerations
or OSB double layer wood floor consisting of: tightly butted and/or tented plywood or OSB
Joists, I-joists, or • minimum subfloor thickness – 23/32", seams must be addressed prior to installing
trusses 3/4" nom. (19 mm) tongue-and-groove DITRA and DITRA-XL
• minimum underlayment thickness – vapor barrier on crawl space floors according
11/32", 3/8" nom. (10 mm) to regional building codes.
where a waterproof floor is required, all
Substrate Preparation
DITRA and DITRA-XL seams and floor/wall
verify that subfloor panels are properly
transitions must be sealed with Schluter®-
fastened to framing members
KERDI-BAND using Schluter SET®, Schluter
underlayment – minimum 11/32", 3/8" nom.
ALL-SET®, Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified
(10 mm)-thick Exposure 1, plugged-face
thin-set mortar; see page 13
plywood or OSB with 1/8" (3 mm) gap
ceramic or porcelain tile can be installed over
between sheets; see page 17 for
single layer wood subfloors on joists spaced
underlayment installation guidelines
at 24" (610 mm) o.c. when using DITRA-XL;
any leveling of the assembly must be done
see detail D-W24-XL-T on page 6
prior to installing DITRA and DITRA-XL
Movement Joints
DITRA and DITRA-XL do not eliminate the
need for movement joints, including perimeter
joints, within the tiled surface. Movement
joints must be installed in accordance with
industry standards and norms; see page 14
★★★ ★★★ ★ ★★
of this Handbook, TCNA EJ171, and TTMAC
301 MJ
WOOD — Floors, Interior - Ceramic or Porcelain Tile 5
D-W24-XL-T-20 24" (610 mm) o.c. joist spacing, single layer OSB
Ceramic or porcelain tile or plywood subfloor
Schluter SET®, Schluter ALL-SET®, Areas of Application Setting and Grouting Materials
Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified over any even and structurally sound OSB or modified thin-set mortar – ANSI A118.11
thin-set mortar
plywood subfloor with 24" (610 mm) o.c. unmodified thin-set mortar – ANSI A118.1
DITRA-XL joist spacing grout – ANSI A118.3, A118.6, A118.7,
uncoupling membrane interior dry or wet areas A118.8
Schluter ALL-SET®, Limitations Setting and Grouting Specifications
Schluter FAST-SET®,
or modified thin-set mortar minimum 2" x 2" (50 mm x 50 mm) tile tile – ANSI A108.5
for natural stone, see detail D-W-S (page 6) grout – ANSI A108.6, A108.9, A108.10
Single layer of plywood and natural stone discussion (page 24)
or OSB Other Considerations
Requirements tightly butted and/or tented plywood or OSB
Joists, I-joists, or maximum spacing of I-joists or floor trusses seams must be addressed prior to installing
trusses
is 24" (610 mm) o.c. DITRA-XL
minimum subfloor thickness – 23/32", 3/4" vapor barrier on crawl space floors according
nom. (19 mm) tongue-and-groove with 1/8" to regional building codes
(3 mm) gap between sheets where a waterproof floor is required, all DITRA-
Substrate Preparation XL seams and floor/wall transitions must be
verify that subfloor panels are properly sealed with Schluter®-KERDI-BAND using
Schluter SET®, Schluter ALL-SET®, Schluter
fastened to framing members
FAST-SET®, or unmodified thin-set mortar; see
any leveling of the subfloor must be done
page 13
prior to installing DITRA-XL
Movement Joints
DITRA-XL does not eliminate the need for
movement joints, including perimeter joints,
within the tiled surface. Movement joints must
be installed in accordance with industry
standards and norms; see page 14 of this
Handbook, TCNA EJ171, and TTMAC 301
MJ
★★★ ★★★ ★ ★★
Floors, Interior - Natural Stone Tile
D-W-S-20 Double layer of OSB or plywood subfloor
Natural stone tile Areas of Application Setting and Grouting Materials
Schluter SET®, Schluter ALL-SET®, over any even and structurally sound double modified thin-set mortar – ANSI A118.11
Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified layer OSB or plywood floor unmodified thin-set mortar – ANSI A118.1
thin-set mortar interior dry or wet areas grout – ANSI A118.3, A118.6, A118.7,
A118.8
DITRA or DITRA-XL Limitations
uncoupling membrane requires double layer wood floor regardless Setting and Grouting Specifications
Schluter ALL-SET , ® of joist spacing tile – ANSI A108.5
Schluter FAST-SET®, minimum 2" x 2" (50 mm x 50 mm) tile grout – ANSI A108.6, A108.9, A108.10
or modified thin-set mortar Requirements Other Considerations
maximum spacing of joists, I-joists, or floor certain moisture-sensitive stones, e.g., green
Double layer of plywood trusses is 24" (610 mm) o.c. marble, or resin-backed tiles may require
or OSB double layer wood floor consisting of: special setting materials. Consult stone
Joists, I-joists, or • minimum subfloor thickness – 23/32", supplier and Schluter®-Systems for more
trusses 3/4" nom. (19 mm) tongue-and-groove information
• minimum underlayment thickness – tightly butted and/or tented plywood or OSB
11/32", 3/8" nom. (10 mm) seams must be addressed prior to installing
DITRA and DITRA-XL
Substrate Preparation
vapor barrier on crawl space floors according
verify that subfloor panels are properly
to regional building codes
fastened to framing members
where a waterproof floor is required, all
underlayment – minimum 11/32", 3/8" nom.
DITRA and DITRA-XL seams and floor/wall
(10 mm)-thick Exposure 1, plugged-face
transitions must be sealed with Schluter®-
plywood or OSB with 1/8" (3 mm) gap
KERDI-BAND using Schluter SET®, Schluter
between sheets; see page 17 for
ALL-SET®, Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified
underlayment installation guidelines
thin-set mortar; see page 13
any leveling of the assembly must be done
prior to installing DITRA and DITRA-XL
Movement Joints
DITRA and DITRA-XL do not eliminate the
need for movement joints, including perimeter
joints, within the tiled surface. Movement
joints must be installed in accordance with
industry standards and norms; see page 14
★★★ ★★★ ★ ★★ of this Handbook, TCNA EJ171, and TTMAC
301 MJ
6 WOOD — Floors, Interior
Floors, Interior - Existing Vinyl Floors
D-V-T-20
Areas of Application Setting and Grouting Materials
Tile or wood base over any even and structurally sound Fast-setting modified thin-set mortar – ANSI
Ceramic, porcelain or stone tile substrate with existing vinyl flooring A118.4F or ANSI A118.15F
interior dry or wet areas unmodified thin-set mortar – ANSI A118.1
RONDEC
grout – ANSI A118.3, A118.6, A118.7,
Limitations
DILEX-EKE A118.8
minimum 2" x 2" (50 mm x 50 mm) tile
Schluter SET , ®
cushioned vinyl unacceptable Setting and Grouting Specifications
Schluter ALL-SET®, perimeter bonded vinyl flooring unacceptable tile – ANSI A108.5
Schluter FAST-SET®, multiple layers of vinyl unacceptable grout – ANSI A108.6, A108.9, A108.10
or unmodified
thin-set mortar Requirements Other Considerations
KERDI-BAND for wood substrates, subfloor/underlayment DITRA and DITRA-XL are adhered to the vinyl
configuration according to detail D-W16-T, flooring using Schluter FAST-SET® or fast-
DITRA or DITRA-XL D-W19-T, D-W24-T, D-W24-XL-T, or D-W-S; setting modified thin-set mortar suitable for
uncoupling membrane D-W24-XL-T for use with DITRA-XL only bonding to vinyl. As an alternative, a suitable
cement-based embossing leveler or Schluter
Schluter FAST-SET®, Substrate Preparation
or fast-setting modified ALL-SET® or an appropriate modified thin-
ensure that the structure beneath the vinyl is
thin-set mortar set mortar can be used to skim coat the vinyl
sound and adequate
to provide a bonding surface. When skim
Existing vinyl ensure that vinyl is well adhered
coat is cured, DITRA and DITRA-XL are
remove any wax and clean vinyl
Plywood or OSB adhered to the skim coat using Schluter
for wood substrates, nail off floor with ring
SET® or unmodified thin-set mortar. See
Joists, I-joists, or shank flooring nails every 4" (102 mm) o.c.
page 21 for discussion on latex-modified
trusses – fasteners must pass through entire thick-
thin-set mortars sandwiched between two
ness of assembly with minimal penetration
impervious layers
into joists
seaming DITRA and DITRA-XL, including
any leveling of the assembly must be done
floor/wall connections, with Schluter ®-
prior to installing DITRA and DITRA-XL
KERDI-BAND may be appropriate in cases
Movement Joints where a break in the water line of an ice
DITRA and DITRA-XL do not eliminate the maker or dishwasher can damage pre-
need for movement joints, including perimeter existing moisture-sensitive substrates and
joints, within the tiled surface. Movement underlayments. KERDI-BAND floor/wall
joints must be installed in accordance with connections are just as easily concealed with
industry standards and norms; see page 14 wood base as with tile. KERDI-BAND floor/
of this Handbook, TCNA EJ171, and TTMAC wall connections in dishwasher alcoves are
301 MJ parged with thin-set mortar; see page 13
vapor barrier on crawl space floors according
to regional building codes
certain moisture-sensitive stones, e.g., green
marble, or resin-backed tiles may require special
setting materials. Consult stone supplier and
★★★ ★★★ ★★ Schluter®-Systems for more information
D-SP-TS-20
Floors, Interior - Structural Plank Subfloor
Ceramic, porcelain or stone tile
Schluter SET®, Schluter ALL-SET®, Areas of Application industry standards and norms; see page 14
Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified over structural plank subfloors of this Handbook, TCNA EJ171, and TTMAC
thin-set mortar interior dry or wet areas 301 MJ
DITRA or DITRA-XL Limitations Setting and Grouting Materials
uncoupling membrane
minimum 2" x 2" (50 mm x 50 mm) tile modified thin-set mortar – ANSI A118.11
Schluter ALL-SET®, unmodified thin-set mortar – ANSI A118.1
Schluter FAST-SET®, Requirements
grout – ANSI A118.3, A118.6, A118.7,
or modified thin-set mortar maximum spacing of joists is 24" (610 mm) o.c.
A118.8
double layer wood floor consisting of:
Plywood or OSB • minimum structural plank subfloor Setting and Grouting Specifications
underlayment thickness – 3/4" (19 mm) tile – ANSI A108.5
Structural plank • minimum underlayment thickness – grout – ANSI A108.6, A108.9, A108.10
subfloor 15/32", 1/2" nom. (13 mm)
Other Considerations
Joists Substrate Preparation vapor barrier on crawl space floors according
verify that subfloor planks are properly to regional building codes
fastened to framing members where a waterproof floor is required, all
underlayment – minimum 15/32", 1/2" nom. DITRA and DITRA-XL seams and floor/wall
(13 mm)-thick Exposure 1, plugged-face transitions must be sealed with Schluter®-
plywood or OSB with 1/8" (3 mm) gap KERDI-BAND using Schluter SET®, Schluter
between sheets; see page 17 for ALL-SET®, Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified
underlayment installation guidelines thin-set mortar; see page 13
any leveling of the assembly must be done certain moisture-sensitive stones, e.g., green
prior to installing DITRA and DITRA-XL marble, or resin-backed tiles may require
special setting materials. Consult stone
Movement Joints
supplier and Schluter®-Systems for more
DITRA and DITRA-XL do not eliminate the
information
need for movement joints, including perimeter
joints, within the tiled surface. Movement
joints must be installed in accordance with
WOOD — Floors, Interior 7
★★★ ★★★ ★ ★★
CONCRETE
Every substrate presents unique challenges
There are various challenges associated with the installation of hard surface coverings on concrete substrates.
To begin, the coefficient of thermal expansion of concrete is close to twice that of ceramic tile. Additionally, tile contractors are often expected
to install tile over young concrete (concrete cured less than 28 days). However, rigid surface coverings installed over young concrete are
susceptible to damage as a result of shrinkage during curing. Pre-stressed/post-tensioned concrete slabs are also commonplace in today’s
construction environment. Although pre-stressing is used to help control deflections in concrete structures, these slabs are still subject to
deformations caused by changes in moisture, temperature, and loading. Many concrete slabs on or below grade are subject to moisture
migration, which can be problematic. Furthermore, these structures experience the same deformations as stated above.
The uncoupling function of Schluter®-DITRA protects the ceramic or stone tile covering by neutralizing the differential
movement stresses between the concrete substrate and the tile, thus eliminating the major cause of cracking and
delaminating of the tiled surface.
The DITRA membrane's waterproofing ability not only protects the substrate from moisture and harmful substances, it
also slows the drying of fresh concrete, which reduces the chances of cracking and curling of the slab.
The free space beneath the DITRA matting provides a route for any residual moisture in the concrete slab to escape. This
allows the installation of DITRA and the tile covering as soon as the slab can be walked upon. Vapor management is also
essential for slabs subject to moisture migration.
Since DITRA is virtually incompressible within the tile assembly, the advantages of uncoupling are achieved without sacrificing
point load distribution capabilities. This allows DITRA to be installed in commercial and industrial applications exposed to
heavy vehicular traffic, provided the type, format, and thickness of the tile is appropriate for the application.
By addressing all of the challenges associated with today’s fast construction methods, DITRA provides a durable installation system for
ceramic and stone tile over concrete substrates.
Floors, Interior - Ceramic or Stone Tile
D-C-TS-20 Concrete subfloor
Areas of Application Movement Joints
Ceramic, porcelain or stone tile over any structurally sound and even DITRA and DITRA-XL do not eliminate the
Schluter SET®, Schluter ALL-SET®, concrete subfloor need for movement joints, including perimeter
Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified young concrete (concrete cured less than 28 days) joints, within the tiled surface. Movement
thin-set mortar on or below grade concrete subject to joints must be installed in accordance with
moisture migration industry standards and norms; see page 14
DITRA or DITRA-XL
uncoupling membrane post-tensioned or pre-stressed concrete of this Handbook, TCNA EJ171, and TTMAC
cracked concrete 301 MJ
Schluter SET®,
Schluter ALL-SET®, Limitations concrete floors may incorporate various
Schluter FAST-SET®, minimum 2" x 2" (50 mm x 50 mm) tile movement joints; see page 14 of this
or unmodified concrete slabs subject to moisture migration Handbook for guidelines on how to treat the
thin-set mortar must have all seams in DITRA and DITRA-XL different types of joints (control/contraction
Concrete sealed with Schluter®-KERDI-BAND using joints, expansion joints, etc.)
Schluter SET®, Schluter ALL-SET®, Schluter Setting and Grouting Materials
FAST-SET®, or unmodified thin-set mortar unmodified thin-set mortar – ANSI A118.1
any cracks in concrete subfloor must exhibit grout – ANSI A118.3, A118.6, A118.7, A118.8
in-plane movement only; thin-set tile
assemblies, including those incorporating Setting and Grouting Specifications
DITRA or DITRA-XL, cannot accommodate tile – ANSI A108.5
differential vertical displacement grout – ANSI A108.6, A108.9, A108.10
Requirements Other Considerations
slab to be structurally sound where a waterproof floor is required, all
slab to be free of waxy or oily films and curing DITRA and DITRA-XL seams and floor/wall
compounds (when present, mechanical transitions must be sealed with Schluter®-
scarifying is necessary) KERDI-BAND using Schluter SET®, Schluter
the installation of DITRA or DITRA-XL and tile ALL-SET®, Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified
can begin as soon as the slab can be walked thin-set mortar; see page 13
upon certain moisture-sensitive stones, e.g., green
slab to be free of standing water marble, or resin-backed tiles may require special
Substrate Preparation setting materials. Consult stone supplier and
★★★ ★ ★★★ ★ any leveling or sloping of the slab or Schluter®-Systems for more information
assembly must be done prior to installing
DITRA and DITRA-XL
8 CONCRETE — Floors, Interior - Ceramic or Stone Tile
GYPSUM
Every substrate presents unique challenges
Bonding ceramic or stone tiles directly to gypsum concrete substrates is generally considered questionable or not recommended. The
challenges associated with gypsum-based underlayments include the requirement of an extended drying period before installing tile and
continued sensitivity to the reintroduction of moisture throughout the life of the installation. In addition, since the coefficient of thermal
expansion of gypsum concrete is substantially greater than that of ceramic tile, shear stresses caused by temperature fluctuations can
result in delamination or cracking of the tile covering. This is particularly important when gypsum concrete is used as a thermal mass for
radiant heated floors. With the increasing popularity of radiant heated floors, which typically utilize gypsum concrete, tile installers need a
reliable installation system to address these issues.
The uncoupling function of Schluter®-DITRA protects the ceramic or stone tile covering by neutralizing the differential
movement stresses between the gypsum concrete substrate and the tile, thus eliminating the major cause of cracking
and delaminating of the tiled surface.
The DITRA membrane's waterproofing function prevents the reintroduction of moisture to gypsum concrete
underlayments, which, if not prevented, could significantly compromise performance of the underlayment and lead to
damage of the tiled surface.
The residual moisture in gypsum concrete is allowed to escape through the air channels on the underside of the DITRA
matting. This is particularly important since gypsum concrete must dry in order to gain strength.
Since DITRA is virtually incompressible within the tile assembly, the advantages of uncoupling are achieved without
sacrificing point load distribution capabilities.
By addressing all of the challenges associated with today’s fast, lightweight construction methods, DITRA provides a durable installation
system for ceramic and stone tile over gypsum substrates.
Floors, Interior - Ceramic or Stone Tile
D-G-TS-20 Gypsum concrete
Ceramic, porcelain or stone tile Areas of Application Setting and Grouting Materials
over gypsum concrete underlayment placed unmodified thin-set mortar – ANSI A118.1
Schluter SET , Schluter ALL-SET ,
® ®
Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified over structurally sound wood or concrete grout – ANSI A118.3, A118.6, A118.7,
thin-set mortar subfloors A118.8
interior dry or wet areas
DITRA or DITRA-XL Installation Specifications
uncoupling membrane Limitations tile – ANSI A108.5
minimum 2" x 2" (50 mm x 50 mm) tile grout – ANSI A108.6, A108.9, A108.10
Schluter SET®, gypsum – follow manufacturer’s
Schluter ALL-SET®, Requirements
Schluter FAST-SET®, recommendations
for wood substrates, subfloor/underlayment
or unmodified configuration according to detail D-W16-T, Other Considerations
thin-set mortar
D-W19-T, D-W24-T, or D-W24-XL-T; since DITRA and DITRA-XL must bond to the
Gypsum concrete D-W24-XL-T for use with DITRA-XL only gypsum concrete, follow gypsum
where radiant heat tubes are laid over the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding
subfloor, gypsum poured to a height that is primers and/or special surface preparation
3/4" (19 mm) above the tops of the tubes is before installing DITRA and DITRA-XL.
required before installing DITRA and DITRA-XL where a waterproof floor is required, all
DITRA and DITRA-XL seams and floor/wall
residual moisture in gypsum screed, 2.0%
transitions must be sealed with Schluter®-
(percentage by volume) or less before
KERDI-BAND using Schluter SET®, Schluter
installing DITRA and DITRA-XL ALL-SET®, Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified
Substrate Preparation thin-set mortar; see page 13
gypsum – follow manufacturer’s directions certain moisture-sensitive stones, e.g., green
marble, or resin-backed tiles may require
Movement Joints special setting materials. Consult stone
DITRA and DITRA-XL do not eliminate the supplier and Schluter®-Systems for more
need for movement joints, including perimeter information
joints, within the tiled surface. Movement vapor barrier on crawl space floors according
★★★ ★★★ ★★★ ★★ joints must be installed in accordance with to regional building codes
industry standards and norms; see page 14
of this Handbook, TCNA EJ171, and TTMAC
301 MJ
GYPSUM — Floors, Interior - Ceramic or Stone Tile 9
HEATED FLOORS
Every substrate presents unique challenges
Radiant heating is one of the fastest growing market segments in the construction industry. Unlike other surface coverings, the low
thermal resistivity of ceramic and stone tiles allows them to be used in radiant heat applications without sacrificing the energy efficiency
of the system. However, there are inherent challenges in combining rigid surface coverings with radiant panel heating systems. A viable
installation system must address the magnified fluctuations in temperature that contribute to increased shear stresses between the heated
assembly and the tile covering. The system must also limit thermal striping by promoting even heat distribution and protect the assembly
from moisture, which is particularly important when gypsum concrete is used as the thermal mass.
Differential movement stresses are magnified in radiant-heated floor applications because of significant temperature
gradients. The uncoupling function of Schluter®-DITRA protects the ceramic or stone tile covering by neutralizing the
differential movement stresses between the heated assembly and the tile, thus eliminating the major cause of cracking
and delaminating of the tiled surface.
The DITRA membrane's waterproofing function provides simple, effective, and permanent protection for moisture-
sensitive substrates, such as gypsum concrete and wood, used in heated floor applications.
The open rib structure of the DITRA matting allows the residual moisture in the substrate to escape. This is particularly
important for gypsum concrete since it must dry in order to gain strength. In addition, the free space beneath the matting
limits thermal striping by promoting even heat distribution throughout the assembly.
Since DITRA is virtually incompressible within the tile assembly, the advantages of uncoupling are achieved without
sacrificing point load distribution capabilities.
DITRA provides a reliable installation system that allows the integration of radiant heat and rigid surface coverings, enabling the tile
contractor to take advantage of this rapidly growing market segment.
D-RE-20
Wood Substrate
Ceramic, porcelain or stone tile
Electric thin-mat or wire system
Schluter SET®, Schluter ALL-SET®,
Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified Areas of Application heating system – follow manufacturer’s
thin-set mortar over any even and structurally sound substrate directions
DITRA or DITRA-XL interior dry or wet areas according to heating
Other Considerations
uncoupling membrane system manufacturer’s recommendations
install heating cable system per heating
Schluter SET®, Limitations manufacturer’s directions; encapsulate
Schluter ALL-SET®, minimum 2" x 2" (50 mm x 50 mm) tile heating cables in a skim coat of Schluter ALL-
Schluter FAST-SET®, SET®, Schluter FAST-SET®, modified thin-set
or unmodified Requirements
thin-set mortar mortar or a cement-based leveling compound
for wood substrates, subfloor/underlayment
and allow to cure before installing DITRA or
Electric thin-mat or wire configuration according to detail D-W16-T,
DITRA-XL with Schluter SET® or unmodified
D-W19-T, D-W24-T, D-W24-XL-T, or D-W-S;
Schluter ALL-SET®, thin-set mortar
D-W24-XL-T for use with DITRA-XL only
Schluter FAST-SET®, install electric thin-mat per heating
or modified thin-set mortar for concrete substrates, see detail D-C-TS
manufacturer’s directions and install DITRA
Plywood or OSB Substrate Preparation or DITRA-XL with Schluter SET®, Schluter
any leveling of the assembly must be done ALL-SET®, Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified
Joists, I-joists, or
trusses prior to installing DITRA and DITRA-XL thin-set mortar
additional preparation according to heating vapor barrier on crawl space floors according
system manufacturer’s directions to regional building codes
Movement Joints where a waterproof floor is required, all
DITRA and DITRA-XL do not eliminate the DITRA and DITRA-XL seams and floor/wall
need for movement joints, including perimeter transitions must be sealed with Schluter®-
joints, within the tiled surface. Movement KERDI-BAND using Schluter SET®, Schluter
joints must be installed in accordance with ALL-SET®, Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified
industry standards and norms; see page 14 thin-set mortar; see page 13
of this Handbook, TCNA EJ171, and TTMAC certain moisture-sensitive stones, e.g., green
301 MJ marble or resin-backed tiles, may require
special setting materials. Consult stone
Setting and Grouting Materials
supplier and Schluter®-Systems for more
modified thin-set mortar – ANSI A118.11
information
unmodified thin-set mortar – ANSI A118.1
Schluter®-DITRA-HEAT is an uncoupling
grout – ANSI A118.3, A118.6, A118.7,
membrane designed to secure heating
A118.8
cables without encapsulating them in leveling
★★★ ★★★ ★ ★★ Setting and Grouting Specifications compounds; see schluter.com for more
tile – ANSI A108.5 information
grout – ANSI A108.6, ANSI A108.9, ANSI
A108.10
10 HEATED FLOORSWood Substrate
D-RHTS-20 Thin slab (lightweight or gypsum concrete)
Ceramic, porcelain or stone tile Areas of Application industry standards and norms; see page 14
over lightweight or gypsum concrete thin of this Handbook, TCNA EJ171, and TTMAC
Schluter SET®, Schluter ALL-SET®, slab placed over structurally sound wood or 301 MJ
Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified
thin-set mortar concrete subfloor Setting and Grouting Materials
interior dry or wet areas unmodified thin-set mortar – ANSI A118.1
DITRA or DITRA-XL grout – ANSI A118.3, A118.6, A118.7,
uncoupling membrane Limitations
minimum 2" x 2" (50 mm x 50 mm) tile A118.8
Schluter SET®,
Schluter ALL-SET®, Requirements Setting and Grouting Specifications
Schluter FAST-SET®, for wood substrates, subfloor/underlayment tile – ANSI A108.5
or unmodified configuration according to detail D-W16-T, grout – ANSI A108.6, A108.9, A108.10
thin-set mortar D-W19-T, D-W24-T, or D-W24-XL-T; heating system – follow manufacturer’s
Lightweight or D-W24-XL-T for use with DITRA-XL only directions
gypsum concrete where radiant heat tubes are laid over the Other Considerations
Even and structurally subfloor, gypsum or concrete fill poured to if gypsum concrete is used, follow gypsum
sound substrate a height that is 3/4" (19 mm) above the tops manufacturer’s recommendations regarding
of the tubes is required before installing primers and/or special surface preparation
DITRA and DITRA-XL before installing DITRA and DITRA-XL
residual moisture in gypsum concrete, 2.0% vapor barrier on crawl space floors according
(percentage by volume) or less before to regional building codes
installing DITRA and DITRA-XL where a waterproof floor is required, all
DITRA and DITRA-XL seams and floor/wall
Substrate Preparation transitions must be sealed with Schluter®-
gypsum or concrete – follow manufacturer’s KERDI-BAND using Schluter SET®, Schluter
directions and/or design specifications ALL-SET®, Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified
additional substrate preparation according to thin-set mortar; see page 13
heating system manufacturer’s directions certain moisture-sensitive stones, e.g., green
marble, or resin-backed tiles may require
Movement Joints
special setting materials. Consult stone
DITRA and DITRA-XL do not eliminate the
supplier and Schluter®-Systems for more
need for movement joints, including perimeter
information
joints, within the tiled surface. Movement
joints must be installed in accordance with
★★★ ★★★ ★★★ ★★
Concrete Substrate
D-RHSS-20 Structural concrete slab
Ceramic, porcelain or stone tile Areas of Application Movement Joints
over structurally sound and even radiant- DITRA and DITRA-XL do not eliminate the
Schluter SET®, Schluter ALL-SET®, heated concrete floors need for movement joints, including perimeter
Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified joints, within the tiled surface. Movement
thin-set mortar young concrete (concrete cured less than 28 days)
on or below grade concrete subject to joints must be installed in accordance with
DITRA or DITRA-XL moisture migration industry standards and norms; see page 14
uncoupling membrane cracked concrete of this Handbook, TCNA EJ171, and TTMAC
301 MJ
Schluter SET®, Limitations
Schluter ALL-SET®, concrete floors may incorporate various
minimum 2" x 2" (50 mm x 50 mm) tile movement joints; see page 14 of this
Schluter FAST-SET®,
or unmodified concrete slabs subject to moisture migration Handbook for guidelines on how to treat the
thin-set mortar must have all seams in DITRA and DITRA-XL different types of joints (control/contraction
sealed with Schluter®-KERDI-BAND using joints, expansion joints, etc.)
Concrete Schluter SET®, Schluter ALL-SET®, Schluter
FAST-SET®, or unmodified thin-set mortar Setting and Grouting Materials
any cracks in concrete subfloor must exhibit unmodified thin-set mortar – ANSI A118.1
in-plane movement only; thin-set tile grout – ANSI A118.3, A118.6, A118.7,
assemblies, including those incorporating A118.8
DITRA or DITRA-XL, cannot accommodate Setting and Grouting Specifications
differential vertical displacement
tile – ANSI A108.5
Requirements grout – ANSI A108.6, A108.9, A108.10
slab to be structurally sound
Other Considerations
slab to be free of waxy or oily films and curing
where a waterproof floor is required, all
compounds (when present, mechanical
DITRA and DITRA-XL seams and floor/wall
scarifying is necessary)
transitions must be sealed with Schluter®-
the installation of DITRA or DITRA-XL and KERDI-BAND using Schluter SET®, Schluter
tile can begin as soon as the slab can be ALL-SET®, Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified
walked upon thin-set mortar; see page 13
slab to be free of standing water certain moisture-sensitive stones, e.g., green
★★★ ★ ★★★ ★
Substrate Preparation marble, or resin-backed tiles may require special
any leveling or sloping of the slab or setting materials. Consult stone supplier and
assembly must be done prior to installing Schluter®-Systems for more information
DITRA and DITRA-XL
HEATED FLOORS 11ACCESS FLOOR PANELS
D-AFP-T-20 Floors, Interior - Ceramic or Porcelain Tile
Ceramic or porcelain tile
Schluter SET®, Schluter ALL-SET®,
Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified
thin-set mortar
Raised access flooring, 24" x 24" panels
DITRA or DITRA-XL Areas of Application Movement Joints
uncoupling membrane over any even and structurally sound DITRA and DITRA-XL do not eliminate
Schluter ALL-SET®, 24" x 24" (600 x 600 mm) panels with the need for movement joints,
Schluter FAST-SET®, corners supported on pedestals including perimeter joints, within the
or modified thin-set mortar
interior dry or wet areas tiled surface. Movement joints must
Primer
Limitations be installed in accordance with
Access panels 24" x 24" industry standards and norms; see
minimum 12" x 12" (30.5 cm x 30.5
Access flooring cm) tile page 14.
pedestals
stone, resin-backed stone and glass Setting and Grouting Materials
tile require special approval. Contact modified thin-set mortar – ANSI
Schluter-Systems for more A118.11, ANSI A118.15
information. unmodified thin-set mortar – ANSI
Requirements A118.1
acceptable panels must feature a grout – ANSI A118.3, A118.6, A118.7,
surface able to be prepared to accept A118.8
bond with thin-set mortar and hold Setting and Grouting Specifications
the weight of tile assembly. Qualified tile – ANSI A108.5
design professional (e.g., architect, grout – ANSI A108.6, A108.9,
engineer, etc.) to specify suitable A108.10
panels Other Considerations
panels must be securely fastened to where a waterproof floor is required,
pedestals which are properly attached all DITRA and DITRA-XL seams and
to the concrete slab with adhesive or floor/wall transitions must be sealed
recommended fasteners by the with Schluter®-KERDI-BAND using
manufacturer Schluter SET®, Schluter ALL-SET®,
cut edges of panels must be properly Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified
supported thin-set mortar
access flooring must be properly where floor drains are required use
installed as per access flooring Schluter®-KERDI-DRAINs
manufacturers installation instructions
Substrate Preparation
verify that subfloor panels are properly
fastened to pedestals
any leveling of the subfloor must be
done prior to installing DITRA and
DITRA-XL
clean and prime panel surface prior to
installing DITRA and DITRA-XL. Use a
primer that is suitable for the
application; Consult primer
manufacturer for primer selection.
12 ACCESS FLOOR PANELS - Floors, InteriorWATERPROOFING
Every substrate presents unique challenges
Today’s construction methods, which include the use of lightweight, moisture-sensitive
materials, such as plywood, OSB, and gypsum concrete, have made the installation of
hard surface coverings particularly challenging. If wood or gypsum concrete substrates are
exposed to moisture, the tile layer above can be damaged as a result.
Typical areas that require waterproofing include tub surrounds, showers, and barrier free
showers. Barrier-free tiled showers eliminate the use of a curb and rely on the slope of
the floor to keep water inside the stall, thus improving accessibility. Waterproofing must
be installed in all areas subjected to water exposure in barrier-free shower applications.
Ideally, the entire floor is protected. There are other commonly tiled areas that may, through
unexpected circumstances, become exposed to significant amounts of water; for example,
an overflowed toilet, or ruptured dishwasher, icemaker, or washing machine lines, which can
result in flooding.
Waterproofing these floors can save an owner from replacing the tile assembly and
substructure in the event of a leak. Schluter®-DITRA and Schluter®-DITRA-XL
installations can be made waterproof with minimal effort. Since the mattings are
made of waterproof polyethylene, the only extra step necessary is to seal the seams
and floor/wall connections. This is easily accomplished by applying Schluter®-KERDI-
BAND to these areas using Schluter SET®, Schluter ALL-SET®, Schluter FAST-SET®,
or unmodified thin-set mortar. The result is a waterproof installation that will not
suffer damage in the event of an unexpected water leak. Schluter®-KERDI-DRAIN or
Schluter®-KERDI-LINE may be used to provide drainage in DITRA and DITRA-XL installations.
DITRA and DITRA-XL meet the requirements of the American National Standard for Load
Bearing, Bonded, Waterproof Membranes for Thin-Set Ceramic Tile and Dimension Stone
Installations (ANSI A118.10), and are listed by cUPC® and evaluated by ICC-ES (ESR-2467
and PMG-1204).
Floors, Interior - Ceramic or Stone Tile
D-WP-20
Areas of Application Other Considerations
Tile or wood base over any even and structurally sound seaming DITRA and DITRA-XL, including
Ceramic, porcelain or stone tile substrate where waterproofing is desired floor/wall connections, with KERDI-BAND
RONDEC may be appropriate in cases where a break
Limitations
in the water line of an ice maker or dishwasher
DILEX-EKE minimum 2" x 2" (50 mm x 50 mm) tile
can damage pre-existing moisture-sensitive
Schluter SET®, Requirements substrates and underlayments. KERDI-
Schluter ALL-SET®, all seams in DITRA and DITRA-XL matting BAND floor/wall connections are just as
Schluter FAST-SET®, and floor/wall transitions must be sealed with easily concealed with wood base as with tile.
or unmodified KERDI-BAND using Schluter SET®, Schluter KERDI-BAND floor/wall connections in
thin-set mortar ALL-SET®, Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified dishwasher alcoves are parged with thin-set
KERDI-BAND thin-set mortar. Note: KERDI-BAND must lap mortar
DITRA at seams and at floor/wall transitions in some applications the vertical section of
DITRA or DITRA-XL by a minimum of 2" (50 mm) in order to
uncoupling membrane the floor/wall transition will not accept a bond
maintain waterproof integrity to unmodified thin-set mortar. Connections
Thin-set mortar to such elements can be achieved using
per appropriate
detail Schluter®-KERDI-FIX or suitable trowel-
applied waterproofing materials, such as
those that require atmospheric moisture to
cure (e.g., urethane sealant)
KERDI-DRAIN or KERDI-LINE may be used
to provide drainage in DITRA and DITRA-XL
applications. DITRA/DITRA-XL is sealed to
the KERDI-DRAIN bonding flange with a
section of KERDI membrane using Schluter
SET®, Schluter ALL-SET®, Schluter FAST-
SET®, or unmodified thin-set mortar. KERDI-
FIX is used to seal the section of KERDI to
the stainless steel KERDI-DRAIN bonding
flange. DITRA/DITRA-XL is sealed to the
KERDI waterproofing collar on KERDI-LINE
using Schluter SET®, Schluter ALL-SET®,
Schluter FAST-SET®, or unmodified thin-set
mortar
WATERPROOFING — Floors, Interior 13MOVEMENT JOINTS
Every substrate presents unique challenges
DISCUSSION
Movement joints are an integral part of any tile assembly. The various components of a tile
assembly (tile, mortar, substrate, etc.) have unique physical characteristics that affect
their behavior. Specifically, these components will expand and contract at different
rates, according to each component’s intrinsic physical properties, with changes
in moisture, temperature, and loading (both dead and live loads). This differential
expansion/contraction of attached components results in internal stresses.
Furthermore, structures that restrain overall expansion of the tile field (walls, columns,
etc.) cause stress buildup within the system. If the aforementioned movements
are not accommodated through the use of movement joints in the tile field and at
restraining structures, the resulting stresses can cause cracking of the grout and tile
and delamination of the tile from the substrate. Thus, movement joints are an essential
component of any durable tile assembly.
SOLUTIONS
Movement joints must be incorporated within the tile field, at doorsills, and at transitions
to walls and other restraining structures to allow movement of the assembly and prevent
stresses that can damage the system. Schluter®-Systems’ prefabricated movement joint
profiles protect tile edges and prevent sound bridges and surface water penetration,
resulting in a permanent, maintenance-free installation. The family of Schluter®-DILEX
prefabricated movement profiles includes a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials to suit
different applications. Please see Schluter®-Systems’ Illustrated Price List and visit www.
schluter.com for more detailed information on DILEX movement profiles.
TECHNICAL NOTES
The Tile Council of North America (TCNA) and the Terrazzo, Tile, and Marble Association
of Canada (TTMAC) provide guidelines (EJ171 and 301MJ, respectively) for the
placement and construction of movement joints in and around the tile field. Schluter®-
Systems accepts these guidelines. However, given the increased use of larger tiles,
smaller grout joints, and lighter building materials, which are more susceptible to
movement, Schluter®-Systems recommends that movement joints within the tile field be
placed at more frequent intervals, as indicated below.
Guidelines for the placement of movement joints
Field size not to exceed 400 ft2 (37.0 m2)
Interior applications: 16' - 20' (4.9 m - 6.1 m) in each direction
Interior areas exposed to direct sunlight, moisture, or heated floors: 12' - 16'
(3.7 m - 4.9 m) in each direction
Place around the perimeter of any size floor and/or against all restraining surfaces
Fields should be as square as possible. The ratio between length and width should
not exceed 1:1.5
14 MOVEMENT JOINTS1 Schluter®-DILEX-EKE
Typical movement joint applications
Perimeter Joints
Perimeter joints are provided at the outer edges of any tile installation to accommodate
movements attributable to changes in moisture, temperature, and loading. See figures
1, 2, and 3.
If Schluter®-DILEX corner movement profiles will not be used, Schluter®-Systems
recommends the use of BEKOTEC-BRS/-BRSK or sill seal (a compressible polyethylene
gasket used to seal the gap between foundations and sill plates) as a quality control
measure when providing perimeter movement joints. The sill seal band is placed against
perimeter structures before any component of the tile assembly is installed, (e.g.,
Schluter®-DITRA, Schluter®-DITRA-XL, additional underlayments including self-leveling
2 BEKOTEC-BRS/-BRSK materials, mortar beds, etc. See figures 2 and 3). After the tile is installed and grouted,
any excess sill seal material is cut away, leaving a movement joint with uniform width
that is void of any mortar, grout, or other restraining materials that would render the joint
Surface Joints
Surface joints must be placed within the tiled surface regardless of substrate conditions.
They provide for stress relief from movements in the tile field due to thermal and moisture
3 PERIMETER expansion/contraction and loading. See figure 4.
EXPANSION JOINT
Drywall
1/4-inch expansion
joint constructed with Expansion Joints
with BEKOTEC-BRS/
-BRSK band Sealant
Expansion joints permit both horizontal and vertical differential movements attributable
Tile Thin-set to thermal and moisture expansion/contraction by providing a complete separation
mortar for the full depth of the slab to allow for free movement between adjoining parts of a
structure or abutting surfaces. They are typically placed at columns, walls, and any other
restraining surfaces. Expansion joints must be continued through the tile covering.
DITRA Subfloor DITRA and DITRA-XL are separated at expansion joints and the joint is continued
through the tile covering using DILEX surface movement profiles. When DITRA and
DITRA-XL are used as waterproofing, the abutted sections must be covered with
4 Schluter®-DILEX-BWS
Schluter®-KERDI-FLEX or Schluter®-KERDI-BAND.
Cold Joints
Cold (construction) joints occur where two successive placements of concrete meet.
True cold joints bond the new concrete to the old and do not allow movement. However,
it takes extra care to accomplish this, so they are usually designed to act as expansion
or control/contraction joints. Cold joints are treated in the same manner as expansion
4 Schluter®-DILEX-BWA
joints. See above.
Control/Contraction Joints
Control/contraction joints are designed to induce controlled cracking caused by drying
and chemical shrinkage at preselected locations. They are typically formed by saw
cutting, tooling, or through the use of inserts. DITRA and DITRA-XL are not separated
at control/contraction joints; however, surface movement joints must be provided in the
tile covering in accordance with the aforementioned guidelines. See also Surface Joints.
4 Schluter®-RENO-T
Structural or Seismic Joints
Regarding structural and seismic expansion joints, please contact Schluter®-Systems at
800-472-4588 (USA) or 800-667-8746 (Canada) for proper installation guidelines.
MOVEMENT JOINTS 15Note regarding residential applications
Due to the increased popularity of continuous tile installations (i.e., tile continuing
from room to room on a given floor), movement joints have become both increasingly
important and increasingly difficult to provide. For instance, consider the residential
installation shown in Figure 5. It is almost certain that the homeowner will resist the idea
of placing movement joints across any of the rooms shown in the figure, despite TCNA,
TTMAC, and Schluter®-Systems guidelines. However, the need for movement joints in
this installation is undeniable, given the extended size of the field. The question then
becomes, “How does one provide the movement joints necessary to ensure a durable
installation without compromising the aesthetic qualities of the continuous tile field?”
The easiest way to accomplish this goal is to begin by providing movement joints at the
perimeter of the installation. Perimeter joints are absolutely necessary and do not interrupt
the tile field. The next step would be to place movement joints at the thresholds between
rooms or where a tiled hallway meets a larger tiled room. These locations are relatively
inconspicuous and the lines formed by the movement joints are logical in that they
reflect the natural perimeter of each room. Finally, determine if any other characteristics
of the floor plan invite the placement of additional movement joints. In this example, the
intersection of the nook area and kitchen/family room may be a reasonable choice.
Figure 5
Nook
Kitchen
Family
Study/Office
Room
Living/Dining
Room
Master
Suite
Schluter®-Systems understands that the tile setter must take into account the needs of
his or her client in determining the placement of movement joints in a tile installation.
For example, a client may not wish to interrupt a continuous tile field that spans multiple
rooms. However, as indicated by the orange lines above, there are ways to meet
industry guidelines that will serve to provide the client with a durable installation that
remains aesthetically pleasing.
16 MOVEMENT JOINTSYou can also read
