Installing tile over a full-mud floor is a rarity these days. It’s expensive, time consuming, and quite frankly out of date.
The most common tile installation method nowadays involves setting tile over concrete backerboard or a plywood underlayment with thinset, however this method can have several drawbacks. If the floor system moves, you could be in for some trouble.
This is where tile underlayment membrane comes in to save the day.
Tile underlayment membranes are a fairly new product that can be installed between tile and the subfloor. The purpose of the membrane is to absorb the movement of the subfloor before that movement can affect the tile – saving the tiles from coming loose or cracking. Underlayment membranes and mats are also much easier to install than backerboard – they’re lightweight and easy to handle, and come with a much more affordable price tag.
Installation of tile underlayment membrane is fairly straightforward, and only requires a few simple steps:
1. Prepare your subfloor.
Before installing the tile underlayment, it’s important the subfloor is prepped and ready. Ensure the subfloor is clean and level, and that it is able to support the weight of the tile.
2. Use the appropriate mortar.
Dependent on the subfloor material, select the mortar that the Tile Council of North America recommends. Mix the mortar slightly on the loose side, but ensure it is still able to hold a notch. Apply the thinset in a thin-bed method with your preferred trowel, being sure to key the mortar into the substrate. Spread only enough mortar that can be covered by the membrane during the specified open time of the mortar.
Embed the membrane into the mortar fabric side down with enough pressure to ensure proper bedding. Cut the membranes to the appropriate lengths when reaching a wall or another object, and leave approximately ¼’’ of space between the membrane’s edge and the wall or object.
3. Lay the tile.
One the membrane is installed, you can begin laying your tile right away. Spread a layer of thinset over the membrane, and install the tile as you typically would. Once the thinset has cured enough for foot traffic, you can apply the grout.
At Tile Pro Depot, we highly recommend the Laticrete Strata Mat Uncoupling Membrane & Mat for your tile underlayment membrane needs. It is thin, easy to install, and high performance. The unique, patent pending design of this uncoupling membrane enhances the mechanical bond between the adhesive and the membrane, which reduces adhesive drying time and thereby shortens the downtime required before grouting. When using the Laticrete Strata Mat Uncoupling Membrane, you’ll be able to complete your installation much more quickly and efficiently!
If you’re interested in the Laticrete Strata Mat, visit our website to place an order. You can also view our selection of other tile underlayment membrane products. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us online or by phone at 844.751.2625. We’d be happy to assist you however we can.
