Schlüter DITRA Matting is one of the most popular types of under-tile decoupling systems in the UK and in this blog post we will take a look at some of the benefits of using DITRA Matting.
What is DITRA Matting?
Schluter DITRA 25 Matting is a polyethylene under tile membrane with an anchoring fleece laminated to its underside. The matting has a grid structure of square cavities which are each cut back in a dovetail configuration. DITRA Matting is specifically designed for tile and natural stone installations.
DITRA Matting
- Uncoupling – DITRA Matting decouples the floor covering from the substrate, which means that movement in the substrate will not affect the tiles. It's one of the most widely used decoupling layers to go between your flooring substrate and the tile.
- Waterproofing – DITRA Matting creates a waterproofing assembly with the tile layer, as long as the joints, floor to wall transitions and connections to building fixtures are properly installed.
- Equalisation of Vapour Pressure – Vapour pressure is neutralised as the moisture in the substrate is able to evaporate due to the air channels on the underside of the DITRA Matting being interconnected and remaining open.
- Load Impact – Tiles that are laid on top of DITRA Matting are able to withstand greater loads because the matting transfers the load directly to the substrate.
- Adhesive Properties – DITRA Matting has excellent adhesion and can be used for both wall and floor coverings.
Using DITRA Matting
DITRA Matting can be used on a wide range of surfaces, including: concrete, mortar screeds, gypsum based screeds, radiant heated screeds and masonry/mixed substrates. Schluter DITRA membrane is particularly useful when installing underfloor heating and provides a decoupling layer between the underfloor heating and the tiles.
Prior to Installing DITRA Matting
It is important the substrates are even, load bearing, clean and compatible prior to installing DITRA Matting. If the substrate is uneven, then it should be levelled first.
The flooring should also have had sufficient time to dry prior to installing the DITRA Matting. This process will differ according to what type of substrate you are using, and should be factored in to your timeframes. We recommend seeking specific instructions for the type of floor you are using.
Installing DITRA Matting
- Apply a bonding adhesive, such as Schlüter KERDI-COLL, to the level substrate using a 3 x 3mm or 4 x 4mm notched trowel. The type of bonding to use depends on the type of substrate – make sure you check the compatibility of all materials prior to installation.
- Cut DITRA Matting to size if required, then embed the anchoring fleece on the underside of the matting into the adhesive so that its entire surface is strongly bonded. Immediately work it into the adhesive using a float or screed trowel. Notes: Make sure you observe the open time of the bonding adhesive. Installation is made easier with a second person.
- Once installed, we recommend placing boards down to protect the matting against damage or loosening from the substrate, which can be caused by heavy mechanical loads.
- Tiling can begin straight after the DITRA matting is installed.
Here at Tile Fix Direct you can purchase uncoupling membranes by the metre, 30m rolls, or by the pallet - Ditra included! Find out more about by giving us a call on 0333 320 04 24.
UPDATE for 2018
Schlüter have now launched DITRA-HEAT-DUO – an uncoupling matting that can also be used with electric underfloor heating cables. The matting has the same decoupling and waterproofing properties but with added thermal break layer and sound insulation. This matting has a series of studs built into the surface to make installing Schlüter cables quick and easy, alternatively it can be used without UFH as a replacement for DITRA 25 matting with the above added benefits. Order DITRA-HEAT-DUO matting online here.
Tile Fix Direct is an authorised national distributor for the full Schlüter range of products. Our fully-trained staff can provide technical information, obtain manufacturer’s support, and offer the best possible price for the complete Schlüter range including DITRA Uncoupling Membrane.