Concrete Substrate
 |
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.
 |
Uncoupling
Schluter-DITRA’s uncoupling function 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.
|
 |
Waterproofing
Schluter-DITRA’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.
|
 |
Vapor Management
The free space beneath the Schluter-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.
|
 |
Support/Load Distribution
Since Schluter-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, Schluter-DITRA provides a durable installation system for ceramic and stone tile over concrete substrates.
Tile or Stone over Concrete Subfloor
View tile assembly