Installing Schluter DITRA Tile Underlayment

Ethan@OPC
by Ethan@OPC
Recently, I've been following two tile installers, and they swear by Schluter DITRA underlayment. In short, subfloors (plywood, OSB, concrete) move especially with seasonal changes, and that movement can cause tiles to crack, delaminate or come loose. DITRA is an uncoupling membrane that eliminates the causes of those problems.
DITRA can be used with porcelain or ceramic tile or natural stone, and it's easy to install (when you know how). It can even act as a waterproof barrier when you seal the seams.
Learn more about this great product, and see how the pros install it at the link.
DITRA is a is an uncoupling membrane that allows the tile to move (in-plane) relative to the substrate, eliminating the major causes for cracked and delaminated tile.
DITRA is installed over a bed of mortar. It's easy to cut with a utility knife, and seams are butted against each other.
The dovetail cut-back cavities are filled with additional mortar, and tile is laid overtop.
Ethan@OPC
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  • Renovation by Design Renovation by Design on Mar 22, 2013
    It's funny I hear about ditra all the time myself. I use rubber membrane and traditional cement for my shower pans. I usually use 1/4" hardi backer on my floors. I have torn out many "loose" jobs before that were ditra installed. Like woodbridge environmental says ditra does nothing for lateral movement do to poor joist support or undersizes sheeting. Another interesting thought I have always had about ditra is how it is installed. Thinset does not last on plywood or any wood when it is thick. It chips and flakes off when the wood expands and contracts. That is why if you glue tiles directly to wood subfloor you will have cracked grout lines and loose tile in no time at all/ I am glad you guys have had good luck with this product, but I have ripped out to many newer installations to even try it for myself. I stand behind Hardi Backer. And cement / wire mesh. http://www.bathroom-remodeling-denver.com ;
  • I did too city wide tile. I was leery trying this product out, but saw it many years ago at the JLC show and figured I would try it out. Have not turned back sense.
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