Schluter Ditra Uncoupling and Waterproofing Membrane for Ceramic and Stone Tile Application

Schluter-DITRA: The Ultimate Tile Protection Membrane

At Schlüter-Systems, we pride ourselves on being pioneers in the tile assembly industry. Founded in 1966 by Werner Schlüter, we continue to meet the evolving demands of the industry by developing practical and effective solutions for tile installation challenges. Today, Schlüter-Systems' has evolved from a modest idea into a company with over 40 product lines recognized and utilized in various countries around the world, maintaining our commitment to innovation, quality, and service.

Schluter-DITRA, our specialized membrane, is designed to prevent tile cracks and water damage. This polyethylene membrane features a grid structure of square cavities, each cut back in a dovetail configuration, and an anchoring fleece laminated to the underside. The anchoring fleece is embedded in thin-set mortar to provide a mechanical bond to the substrate, allowing tile to be installed over DITRA using the thin-bed method. This combination of features allows DITRA to serve as an uncoupling layer, waterproofing membrane, and vapor management layer, accommodating moisture from beneath the tile covering while still providing adequate support/load distribution for the tile.

The installation process for Schluter-DITRA is straightforward:

1. Apply a thin-set mortar suitable for the substrate using a 1/4" x 3/16" (6 mm x 5 mm) V-notched trowel, 5/16" x 5/16" (8 mm x 8 mm) V-notched trowel, or the DITRA trowel.
2. Embed the DITRA matting, fleece side down, into the mortar, ensuring full contact between the fleece webbing and the thin-set.
3. Tile can be installed over DITRA immediately, without waiting for the mortar to cure. Fill the cut-back cavities with Schluter SET, Schluter ALL-SET, Schluter FAST-SET, or unmodified thin-set mortar.

Schluter-DITRA is 1/8" (3.5 mm) thick, which minimizes tile assembly thickness and reduces transitions to lower surface coverings. It also allows for ceramic tile application over single-layer plywood or OSB subfloors on joists spaced up to 19.2" (488 mm) o.c.

Schluter-DITRA is not a sound barrier, but it does offer some sound attenuation. On a 6" concrete slab, it raised the IIC rating from 28 to 38, which doesn't meet typical codes. Additional sound measures, like underlayment and sound-rated ceilings, are required.

Waterproofing isn't required for DITRA, but it can be easily achieved by sealing seams and connections with KERDI-BAND and thin-set mortar. DITRA and DITRA-XL were designed and tested for thin-bed ceramic tile and natural stone applications, so self-leveling compounds should not be used over these membranes.

In summary, Schluter-DITRA is the ultimate tile protection membrane, offering tile cracking prevention, multi-surface compatibility, moisture barrier properties, and a sturdy foundation for tiles. Its easy installation and quick adhesive setting make it an ideal choice for ceramic and stone tile installations.

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