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Tiling

Is uncoupling membrane/mat for large floor tile in new build needed?

Anonymous user 09/03/2024 - 2.55 PM

Hey, I have had some quotes for the install of large format porcelain floor tiles to a new build, the base is concrete. Some have said i need a membrane/matt layed down first to stop any cracks but another said i do not, just need to use flexible silicone/grit. So do i need this layer or not as there is a large price difference? Thanks in advance.

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5 Answers

Wall and floor tilling

Rating: 5 out of 5
Harrow
Hi,if the concrete doesn't have any crack on it can you only clean it verry weel then apply primer then you can tille straight over with flexible adhesives ,if the concrete has cracks then you have to use specialy membrane under tiles to prevend cracking tiles above the concrete crack. King regards
Answered1 March 2018
2

Transformative Tiling

Rating: 5 out of 5
Ware
Hi. You will get a differing opinion on whether to use a de coupling membrane on a fresh concrete screed. The advatage of using a de coupling membrane is that it allows for fast track insulation rather then having to wait the normal full drying time. The membrane if used actually slows the drying time down which reduces the risk of curling or cracking. The lateral movement in screeds is what causes it to crack Which would then transfer to the tile.
Answered4 March 2018
2

ROBERTO'S

Rating: 5 out of 5
Birmingham
You can different things to do the job. I personally use a back mesh when tiling floor in concrete and flexible fast set tile adhesive. The mesh is sold in rolls but not easy to find in shops in uk. I normally buy it from ebay. You clean the concrete very well. You lay the mesh that is thin and spread the adhesive on top and start tiling. Once all is dry the mesh will keep all together the tile and a chance for a crack are really poor.
Answered6 February 2018
1

GARY WADE TILING

Rating: 5 out of 5
Epsom
Laying anti fracture matting is "belt and braces"... Sometimes not really needed but "why spoil the ship for an hapneth of tar".... I'm a great believer of covering myself and in that would mat Good luck GW.
Answered9 April 2018
1

BTC Tiling Limited

Rating: 5 out of 5
Chippenham
Always, always use an anti-fracture mat on new build, pumped in screeds. Different companies use different strength mixes, so coat in plenty of SBR priming agent, lay the matting, then be safe in the knowledge that you have done the job as a professional, and not a DIYer.
Answered9 January 2020
1