Does DITRA need underlayment?

DITRA will forever change the way you lay tile. 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.

What is DITRA membrane used for?

Ditra is an uncoupling membrane designed for ceramic and stone tile installations on floors. It provides uncoupling to prevent cracked tile and grout. It is made of polyethylene creating a waterproofing layer protecting the substrate.

Is uncoupling membrane necessary?

Most commonly, uncoupling membranes are used when laying tile over concrete. Other less common and more challenging substrates like asphalt and metal require an uncoupling membrane to ensure the tile will adhere to these surfaces.

How thick should subfloor be for DITRA?

Proper Floor Preparation However, the plywood subfloor must be thick enough to support the tile floor. This means: A minimum of 5/8” nominal plywood or OSB thickness installed over joists on 16” centers.

Is DITRA good for porcelain tile?

Since DITRA is impervious, it does not deprive the mortar of its moisture. Therefore, extended cure times would be required before grouting if using modified thin-set mortars between DITRA and ceramic tile, including porcelain tile. If extended cure times were not observed, the results could be unpredictable.

Is DITRA better than cement board?

Ditra is waterproof, while cement board lets water through but won’t be damaged by it. This may make Ditra a better choice if moisture from below is a concern, such as with some outdoor applications or installations over concrete. Some tile setters also prefer Ditra for its relatively quick installation.

How long after laying DITRA can I tile?

How long do I have to wait before I can install tile on the Schluter®-DITRA membrane? Once DITRA has been installed on the substrate, tile can be installed right away. No need to wait for the mortar to cure.

How long should DITRA dry before tiling?

Ditra-set only takes 25 to 30 minutes to dry. These advantages allow you to walk on the Ditra surface before tiling or even right after installing the Ditra. When installing ceramic and other stone tiles, Ditra is beneficial to use. It aids in a durable tile installation that will last for a long time.

Which uncoupling membrane is best?

If you want to prevent cracks in concrete from transferring through to your tile floor the best products on the market are A118. 10 crack isolation membranes. These have been tested and have the highest performance.

What is a Ditra membrane?

Ditra is an uncoupling membrane designed for ceramic and stone tile installations on floors. It provides uncoupling to prevent cracked tile and grout. It is made of polyethylene creating a waterproofing layer protecting the substrate. Ditra can be installed over a variety of subfloors including concrete, plywood, OSB and radiant heated floors.

What is Ditra underlayment?

Schluter DITRA underlayment is an uncoupling membrane that allows the tile floor to move (in-plane) relative to the substrate, eliminating the major causes for cracked and delaminated tile. DITRA is composed of a polyethylene (plastic) grid of square cavities, each with angled, dovetail cut-backs, and an anchoring mesh laminated to the backside.

What is Ditra used for in grouting?

DITRA and DITRA-XL provide uncoupling to prevent cracked tile and grout. Made of polyethylene, DITRA and DITRA-XL serve as a waterproofing layer that protects moisture-sensitive substrates, such as plywood/OSB.

What substrates can I use ditditra on?

DITRA is approved for use with ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone tile. It can be installed over a variety of substrates including plywood, OSB, existing vinyl, structural planks, and concrete.