Today’s construction methods, which include the use of lightweight, moisture-sensitive materials, such as plywood, OSB, and gypsum concrete, have made the installation of hard surface coverings particularly challenging. If wood or gypsum concrete substrates are exposed to moisture, the tile layer above can be damaged as a result. Typical areas that require waterproofing include tub surrounds and showers. However, there are other commonly tiled areas that may, through unexpected circumstances, become exposed to significant amounts of water; for example, an overflowed toilet, or ruptured dishwasher, icemaker, or washing machine lines, which can result in flooding. Waterproofing these floors can save an owner from replacing the tile assembly and substructure in the event of a leak. Schluter-DITRA installations can be made waterproof with minimal effort. Since the matting is made of waterproof polyethylene, the only extra step necessary is to seal the DITRA seams and floor/wall connections. This is easily accomplished by applying Schluter-KERDI-BAND to these areas using an unmodified thin-set mortar. The result is a waterproof installation that will not suffer damage in the event of an unexpected water leak.
