I'm doing a DIY bathroom remodel right now, and these on-the-job videos are so helpful. On the floor I'm going to be laying large format (24" x 24") tile on Ditra XL over 3/4" OSB. Decided to use Schluter All-Set throughout. The Ditra is now embedded and cured. Next step, before tiling, is applying Kerdi band to the Ditra sheet seams and the gap between Ditra and acrylic shower pan - before installing the Ditra I'd already embedded the shower pan on self-leveling compound to create a 3/8" thick shelf that comes flush with the Ditra. Phoned Schluter Customer Support today to ask them about pre-filling all the waffles when I apply the Kerdi band - I wondered if it might affect the mortar bond strength at all. They told me it is perfectly acceptable to prefill the waffles and advised mixing the All-Set at 'membrane strength' consistency - so you actually save a bit on mortar. Just make sure it's given at least 12 hours to cure before walking on it (avoid heavy traffic), lightly scrape over with a trowel (taking care not to damage the Ditra) and vacuum before laying tile - very important. Sounds good.
Thought I'd also post this publicly because of the thinset issue. This is an age old question and some tile installers will use the same or unmodified for both. However, it has to do with the chemistry of the thinset. Modified thinset has a different curing process because of the polymers while unmodified does not. When you use modified thinset first on the plywood the plywood will actually help it to set and cure because it's an impervious surface and can have a longer cure time. If you use modified thinset on top of the Ditra it's a waterproof membrane and there is no way it can dry through so you may have issues. Thus the reason for unmodified on top and modified underneath. It also takes a long time for modified thin set to cure so if used on top it may take 7-10 days before you can grout. It also depends on what type of substrate you're going over. Schluter recommends this process to maintain the warranty. However if you use Schulters modified thinset mortar supposedly you can use theirs on top and bottom. Hope this helps. ua-cam.com/video/n3b2PbijfOk/v-deo.html
Thanks for the detail on waterproofing to the bathtub. I've seen other videos showing installation of uncoupling membranes without this detail. Because of this video specifically I have decided to go with the Schluter system even though there is a slightly higher cost. Video and audio very good quality and very easy to understand. Thanks again.
Doing a bathroom reno with tile and these exact products. Great info. A couple things mentioned in the video I would never have thought of. Especially using the modified vs. unmodified thin set. Thanks for the video. Definitely will make my life over the next week or two much easier. 👍
The video tutorial was excellent. What a skilled craftsman! He did everything perfectly. If only all contractors were that diligent in their craft. Bravo. Very good video too. Just wear gloves - you only have one set of hands so don't brutalize them with exposure to chemicals. Nitrile black 0.9 mil from Harbor Freight works well and is durable. I used unmodified thinset mortar from MAPEI and also added a liquid Polymer to it. This is the same as using Modified Thinset. I cannot stress the importance of this Polymer. In Modified Thinset, the polymer is already mixed into the dry powder in dry form. Both yield the same result. It is a misnomer to call this Modified vs Unmodified. It should be Strong vs Weak. Thinset without the latex (rubber) polymer, and only mixed with water is brittle, cracks easily, bears less weight, and disintegrates with vibrations, settling, earthquakes. If you apply tile to an earthquake prone region, or in a van build, you must use polymer. I would use it every time. It also creates more moisture resistance. Ditto for grout. MAPEI products only found in Lowes not Home Depot, are made in Italy. Just an example, they make a Grout Maximizer. I wanted to tile my RV bathroom floor. I did not know about Schluter products like Kerdi board, Kerdi Membrane (those strips of waterproof cloth) and Ditra underlayment. I wish I had at the time. But I used Polymers and Grout Maximizer. Not one tile ever came loose. MAPEI Grout Maximizer is a polymer for grout. No cracks, built-in waterproofing, no sealant required. Super stuff. Any brand will do, and MAPEI was just used as an example. Do it right the first time. For all RV'ers, you want a combination of Schluter and MAPEI. Two excellent companies that make superb products.
You have the best and most informative videos on UA-cam. You helped me a ton. Appears you have the Schluter training completed because I saw some of your details of waterproofing done properly.
Good video, thanks. I have to disagree with filling in the 1/4" gap along the walls with thinset for the band. The whole point of the gap is to leave room for movement. Filling it in takes away that ability. Use the 100% silicone.
I imagine it would depend on what height you put the nails. They recommend 2" up the wall and along the floor for waterproofing, so if you put nails lower than that it would compromise the waterproofing.
Good video . Thanks ! It might be a tad confusing for people unfamiliar with tile setting , tools , materials , etc. where the word 'trial' is used a few times where I think 'trowel' was intended . I don't mean to split hairs ! But for someone completely new to DIY tile setting, it would be easy to get super confused . Possibly I'm confused and am misunderstanding ? P.S. I've set miles of tile in several high-end homes in Seattle (I sure do miss the Seattle of the 80s and 90s 😪) and these new products that've arrived on the market in recent years SURE would've been nice options ! But with what was available , I did just fine . Never once got a call-back for a failed tile installation . OMG , sounds like I'm bragging . Nooo! Am just reminiscing about a Seattle that was affordable, plenty of work, far fewer people and LOADS of work for skilled craftsmen . Thanks again .
Home Repair Tutor ah! Ok, it's the accent! But yeah, I sadly had to leave Seattle (moved to Port Townsend) but I consider myself fortunate that I got to live there when it was a great city . I barely recognize it now. Anyway , subbed to your channel . Have a great day !
Lisa Colbert I was thinking the same thing about trial vs trowel LOL But other than that I love this channel. One of the most helpful remodel, schluter product video & tile setting video creators around. These guys know their stuff and have been kind enough to share their expertise - this is one grateful DIYer right here 🙋🏻♀️Doing all of this in my current bathroom remodel and am grateful for the UA-cam pro visual aides. You can read all the stuff in the world but without seeing it done or doing it yourself, you can’t get the full effect of use of these products or how a realistic remodel might go, common remodel problems and all! Everything I’ve run into this far into my remodel I have learned a fix for. Besides watching UA-cam pro videos and researching & educating myself about standards & codes that must be met, I was raised by two very handy parents, I’ve known my way around power tools long before I attempted to take on any remodel in my current home.
I'm going to be tiling our bathroom, floors and wall. The floor tile will be set on Ditra XL (over OSB). I'm about to cut and install the drywall. Ideally, what size gap should there be between the Ditra and bottom of the drywall for applying the Kerdi band ? Also, there will be a glass walled shower stall in one corner with acrylic shower pan. The pan is already embedded level on a plinth of self-leveling compound 3/8" thick and extending 1/4" beyond the margins of the pan - so the base of the pan should come flush with the Ditra XL when I've installed it. When I poured the SLC I stuck foam backer rod around the 'bottom' plate of the wood wall frame to serve as an expansion joint. There also needs to be a 1/4" expansion gap between the Ditra and SLC plinth. I was thinking to fill that with backer rod also, but since I'm going to be putting Kerdi band around the pan, do you think I would be just as well filling it with Kerdi Fix ? Cheers.
I'd like to use this method to waterproof my flooring and make sure things were very level on my particle board before placing glue down laminate planks. Can I use this method before my glue down planks?
Thanks for making these great videos. I'm planning installing the travertine tile in 2nd floor bathroom with plywood subfloor. Do I have to install another layer of OSB per Schluter's suggestion? Thanks again.
I have a rental property where I really care about water proofing the bathroom floors outside of shower (shower is already water proof) so I am not doing a reno on the entire bathrooms. I only would be re-doing the floor and the base. How can you water proof where the vanity's toe kick is? Youc an use Kerdi bend if the wall is drywall material, but a section of the vertical space is the vanity. I was told by a tile installer you cannot use thinset on wood toe kick. So if I am concerned about properly sealing the floor to toe kick connection, what are my options if kerdi bend does not work there? The toe kick surface is actually damaged so I could replace the toe kick with a different material. So should I use some material there where it does work with the thinset, and kerdi bend?
Hey! I have schluter specialized modified mortar.I assume this is the same as modified thin set ? Let me know ty .video helped alot as my fist tiling project starts in 2 days .let me know about the mortar tks
Couple of Questions. Difference between modified and unmodified thinset? 2. I have 5/8ths subfloor. You mentioned 3/4 minimum. Under the underlay. I wanted to apply cement board 3/8ths then put membrane down. I am installing heated floors so was going to relieve the center put in the matting then thinset over to level of cement board onntop of this add membrane then tile. Your thoughts. Is 5/8th subfloor with membrane on top fine before tile .How would you integrate heated floor. Thanks Rob
When you leave a quarter inch gap between the Ditra and wall edges for expansion, why do you fill the gap in when you lay the waterproofing tape down. Doesn’t that defeat the object? I’ve never used the Ditra before, always used 9mm plywood but I’m going to start using it from now on. Good informative videos.
For everyone how wants to instal ditra membrane use the Ardex ditra FBM one mortar thinset system! It’s specially designed for ditra system membrane and tiles installation good luck you all greetings from the Netherlands
I don’t accept money from any companies, just like sharing what’s best - however I will take some samples and try them to see if they’re worth recommending
Hi one more question I'd love for you to answer, please!, I noticed Sal Deblasi in his Ditra installation video didn't let the thinset applied over the Ditra dry overnight like in your video. Are you doing this added step just to smooth out and eliminate any problems creates by Ditra's waffle pattern before laying tile? There's no difference in terms of tile bonding in applying tile and thinset over freshly dried thinset laid on Ditra from the night prior, vs applying tile and thinset at the same time on Ditra?
Hi water prove the perimeter, look like we do not have expansion and contraction any more, i wonder what problem we have in the future. Another question you Fill all the waffle with none modified thin set and next day I wonder if you can use modified thin set to install tiles. Let me know, Thanks again.
Home Depot has fortified thinset morter and medium bed morter. Is fortified the same as modified? What's the difference between thinset and medium bed? Which one do I choose?
Not to Necro this comment section or anything, but Schluter does recommend a 2 inch overlap for KERDI installations, so 3/8 inch would not fall within their recommended installation parameters.
Hello, I am preparing to install 1" hexagonal tile (in sheets) on my bathroom floor. My house has wooden I Beams on 16 inch centers. I'm unsure of the thickness of the plywood subfloor but plan to add another layer to meet the height of strand bamboo flooring. I have a couple of questions at this point. 1. Should I glue the added layer in addition to screwing it down? 2. Should I leave an expansion space of r the added layer in relation to the drywall and, if so, should I fill it with thin set? Thanks.
Great video. One point of confusion for me is the use of modified or unmodified mortars. Schluter has a product, Schluter ALL-SET modified thin set, which according to the installation handbook works for both the Ditra and for the tile. Is this correct?
@@jaegermah I checked with a local tile supplier and with Schluter. You can use ALL-SET for everything. No need for two different types of thin set if you use this product. A nice simplification and great way to avoid wasting unused thin set.
What is the difference between unmodified and modified thin-set? Would it be the end of the world if I only used modified? Seems like hardware stores around me only stock modified.
Hi the thing I just don’t get is that the surface of ditra and ditra heat is not flat and smooth like a board. It undulates because of the notches. So how does the Kerdi band form a seal? What stops the water running back underneath the band following the contours and profile of the ditra mat? Is it the thinset that actually makes the waterproof seal? Hope you can help as I need to install this soon. Thabks
I had the same question. How does applying Kerdi Band over the seams in the Ditra make it waterproof since thinset is not waterproof? Actually the same goes for the corner transitions since the Kerdi Band is not bonded to a flat surface.
@@sriniwass I’m still none the wiser to this. My assumption now is that the thinset is what stops the water getting through and the Kerdi band merely serves to reinforce the joint to prevent cracks if there is any movement, like tape on drywall seams. The problem is exacerbated if you use Ditra Heat because you need to make sure the thinset goes all around the heat cable when it crosses a joint.
I am planning on using the Ditra and have a KBRS shower pan already installed. I am going to be tiling the shower pan. Is the 1/4" reveal where the DItra meets the front of the shower pan necessary in this instance? I have read that you should leave a 1/2 gap for expansion between the wall and the floor to prevent the drywall from cracking. It is hard to tell if you did this in the video.
the 1/4” gap should be plenty; set your floor tile and also leave at least a 1/8” gap at the curb then you can set your vertical curb tile (normally the last tile step) and cover the 1/8” gap
It is good to saturate any dry material for substrate such as wood, osb and older layed cement floor. Modified Schluter thin set is also recommended for any dry substrate to avoid skinning and allow a slow even curing process.
I just bought this ditra and kerdi band to do my bathroom floor and after watching these vids along with the added cost this looks like a total nightmare to install. I laid out and cut my ditra floor and did not overlap the 2" omg
Hard to run heating cable through this ditra w/ all that thinset spread everywhere. So, do you have to choose between heated floors that aren’t waterproof and non-heated floors that are waterproof?
What is different here? In the travertine video the tradesmen did not fill in the waffle and let it dry before tiling. Is this a preference thing or is something different about the application?
Do you have a video that would be a "part 3" to this, which would show how to plan the layout of tile on the floor, any differences to keep in mind in planning with various tile sizes (12x12, 12x24, etc), how to determine where to place cut tiles to have the best finished look, etc? Love the vids, very helpful and big confidence boosters that this is something a DIY'er can do!
Q: is it recommended to fill in the wafers in a separate step?? ie. dry thinset from previous day bonding to the thinset of the next day... I thought the idea of this uncoupling floor was that the tile which is thinset to the Ditra moves in the wafer. I do not think I have seen anyone just filling in the waffles the night before...
@@chuckloh3008 because the ditra is two parts if you look at it cross-sectionally. the bottom portion is attached to the subfloor via mortar. the top portion is mechanically connected to the tile with mortar that fits solidly into the wafers. there shouldn't be any movement between the top portion and the tile/mortar mix. The decoupling of the tile and subfloor is taking place between the top and bottom portions of the ditra itself.
@@HomeRepairTutor unfortunately I asked HD employees for help and they had no idea of what I was talking about. They all guided me to 100% silicone products.
@@luigibarrera4663 you have two options, first would be to find a local Schluter distributor as they will have Kerdi-Fix. Second, you could buy it off Amazon, here’s a link in case that’s an efficient option amzn.to/3deEaIA
Hey! THANK YOU for the video. I'd deeply appreciate your reply. Is it necessary to use the Kerdi band if installing Ditra not in a bathroom, but in an entryway? Does one always have to use Kerdi band on the seams between Ditra sheets and between Ditra and walls regardless of the room?
2years ago but the answer is no. Not required for dry areas like halls etc. Kerdi band is good to give superior protection from water getting into areas where damage could be done. A second floor bathroom or kitchen or laundry room would be good examples. If there is a leak or just sloppy showering, kerdi band used to seal the ditra will help prevent unwanted water from leaking through subfloor to the ceiling below. Up to a point of course. Keep in mind that if you have a tub with a plugged overflow left running all night, no amount of waterproofing is going to stop water flowing out the room and down the stairs on a path of destruction.
I don’t see the need to have the bathroom floor so waterproof. Wet feet or a bit of shower splash on a tile floor is not enough to cause a problem. You would just wipe that up with a towel. If you have a serious spill like a tub overflowing, the water will just wash out into the hallway anyway. Great video explain the install though. You always do a good job explaining things fully.
Hubby and I are attempting our first tile project and installing Ditra tonight. Do we have to do the kerdi membrane along the walls? Or is it just preference? Your videos on Ditra have been SO helpful-thank you!
+Kaylie Fitzgerald you don't have to do the KERDI along the wall but it will make the room more watertight. Thanks so much for your kind words!! Keep me posted on your project, super stoked for you :D
+adam b yes, fill in the waffles with thin-set then apply more thin-set with ridges and backbutter tiles with ridges facing the same direction as those on the DITRA 👍
I have a question about my bathroom tub shower walls. I am still trying to understand the benefits of modified vs. non-modified cement. My bathtub surround was installed with that purple drywall and already has fiberglass tape and mud on it. You say remove any mud from the floor. Can I coat my tub surround with non-modified cement to mitigate the mud that was applied and then cover with some kind of water-proofing before installing 1-ft square ceramic tile?
I have OSB as a subfloor. Can this go over it same way? Also, I plan to use Laticrete Floor Warming mats in wall areas. Would this go over it just before tiling or before embedding the warming matts?
Just to clarify, when you are filling the Ditra with the thinset (before tiling), you are not completely covering the Ditra (no orange showing), but just filling the divets, right?
Thank you! One other quick question - I used Mapei Uncoupling Thinset with my Kerdi Board, am planning to use the same mixed with MAPEI's Polymer Additive to adhere the Ditra to plywood, then use the Uncoupling Thinset, mixed with water, for installing all my floor and wall tile. I know you guys like to recommend all the Schluter mortar products, but haven't been able to find them in my area. Do you have any experience with the Mapei products, and do you feel that they will work ok?
I was told I cold use a modified thinset like ardex 5 to do all tile work in my bathroom. Same thinset to use for my wedi system and same for ditra. Just have to let dry on top of ditra before laying tile on it the next day. Is that true?
Yes, modified thin-set can be used to fill the DITRA voids as long as it dries. Then the next day, Tile can be set with unmodified thin-set. Ardex X5 is modified though. That said, Ardex will warranty it’s use over most substrates
I'm doing a DIY bathroom remodel right now, and these on-the-job videos are so helpful. On the floor I'm going to be laying large format (24" x 24") tile on Ditra XL over 3/4" OSB. Decided to use Schluter All-Set throughout. The Ditra is now embedded and cured. Next step, before tiling, is applying Kerdi band to the Ditra sheet seams and the gap between Ditra and acrylic shower pan - before installing the Ditra I'd already embedded the shower pan on self-leveling compound to create a 3/8" thick shelf that comes flush with the Ditra. Phoned Schluter Customer Support today to ask them about pre-filling all the waffles when I apply the Kerdi band - I wondered if it might affect the mortar bond strength at all. They told me it is perfectly acceptable to prefill the waffles and advised mixing the All-Set at 'membrane strength' consistency - so you actually save a bit on mortar. Just make sure it's given at least 12 hours to cure before walking on it (avoid heavy traffic), lightly scrape over with a trowel (taking care not to damage the Ditra) and vacuum before laying tile - very important. Sounds good.
Thought I'd also post this publicly because of the thinset issue.
This is an age old question and some tile installers will use the same or unmodified for both. However, it has to do with the chemistry of the thinset. Modified thinset has a different curing process because of the polymers while unmodified does not. When you use modified thinset first on the plywood the plywood will actually help it to set and cure because it's an impervious surface and can have a longer cure time. If you use modified thinset on top of the Ditra it's a waterproof membrane and there is no way it can dry through so you may have issues. Thus the reason for unmodified on top and modified underneath. It also takes a long time for modified thin set to cure so if used on top it may take 7-10 days before you can grout. It also depends on what type of substrate you're going over. Schluter recommends this process to maintain the warranty. However if you use Schulters modified thinset mortar supposedly you can use theirs on top and bottom. Hope this helps. ua-cam.com/video/n3b2PbijfOk/v-deo.html
Has anyone actually gotten a refund from Schluter for tile cracking even if done right?
jesus christ, 7 to 10 days?!
Thanks for the detail on waterproofing to the bathtub. I've seen other videos showing installation of uncoupling membranes without this detail. Because of this video specifically I have decided to go with the Schluter system even though there is a slightly higher cost. Video and audio very good quality and very easy to understand. Thanks again.
Doing a bathroom reno with tile and these exact products. Great info. A couple things mentioned in the video I would never have thought of. Especially using the modified vs. unmodified thin set. Thanks for the video. Definitely will make my life over the next week or two much easier. 👍
The video tutorial was excellent. What a skilled craftsman! He did everything perfectly. If only all contractors were that diligent in their craft. Bravo. Very good video too. Just wear gloves - you only have one set of hands so don't brutalize them with exposure to chemicals. Nitrile black 0.9 mil from Harbor Freight works well and is durable.
I used unmodified thinset mortar from MAPEI and also added a liquid Polymer to it. This is the same as using Modified Thinset. I cannot stress the importance of this Polymer. In Modified Thinset, the polymer is already mixed into the dry powder in dry form. Both yield the same result. It is a misnomer to call this Modified vs Unmodified. It should be Strong vs Weak. Thinset without the latex (rubber) polymer, and only mixed with water is brittle, cracks easily, bears less weight, and disintegrates with vibrations, settling, earthquakes. If you apply tile to an earthquake prone region, or in a van build, you must use polymer. I would use it every time. It also creates more moisture resistance.
Ditto for grout. MAPEI products only found in Lowes not Home Depot, are made in Italy. Just an example, they make a Grout Maximizer. I wanted to tile my RV bathroom floor. I did not know about Schluter products like Kerdi board, Kerdi Membrane (those strips of waterproof cloth) and Ditra underlayment. I wish I had at the time. But I used Polymers and Grout Maximizer. Not one tile ever came loose. MAPEI Grout Maximizer is a polymer for grout. No cracks, built-in waterproofing, no sealant required. Super stuff.
Any brand will do, and MAPEI was just used as an example. Do it right the first time.
For all RV'ers, you want a combination of Schluter and MAPEI. Two excellent companies that make superb products.
You have the best and most informative videos on UA-cam. You helped me a ton. Appears you have the Schluter training completed because I saw some of your details of waterproofing done properly.
When I buy my new home this year, I'll be ready to do everything thanks to these videos lol
+Randy Nachoman Savage thanks buddy, glad you liked the videos. Always feel free to ask any question along the way ;D
Did you end up doing everything?
@@stuartmccormick3977 yea I wonder
Don’t buy a new house that needs all this done 🙄
Is the quarter inch reveal completely free of the thinset. If not, I guess there would be no room for expansion?
Very eloquently explained; this video and the one that preceded it. thank you.
I am tiling a hallway so waterproofing is not an issue. Do I still need to use the band etc?
It's messy. But one of the best videos to tackle my renovation. Great job . Simple step by step explanation.
I know it's been a few years, but just wanted to say excellent video! Thanks.
Good video, thanks. I have to disagree with filling in the 1/4" gap along the walls with thinset for the band. The whole point of the gap is to leave room for movement. Filling it in takes away that ability. Use the 100% silicone.
If I’m putting nails in the drywall for the trim does that compromise the waterproofing or will it still be just as effective?
I imagine it would depend on what height you put the nails. They recommend 2" up the wall and along the floor for waterproofing, so if you put nails lower than that it would compromise the waterproofing.
Good video . Thanks ! It might be a tad confusing for people unfamiliar with tile setting , tools , materials , etc. where the word 'trial' is used a few times where I think 'trowel' was intended . I don't mean to split hairs ! But for someone completely new to DIY tile setting, it would be easy to get super confused . Possibly I'm confused and am misunderstanding ? P.S. I've set miles of tile in several high-end homes in Seattle (I sure do miss the Seattle of the 80s and 90s 😪) and these new products that've arrived on the market in recent years SURE would've been nice options ! But with what was available , I did just fine . Never once got a call-back for a failed tile installation . OMG , sounds like I'm bragging . Nooo! Am just reminiscing about a Seattle that was affordable, plenty of work, far fewer people and LOADS of work for skilled craftsmen . Thanks again .
Thanks Lisa for the feedback. Guess that's our Pittsburgh accent, lol. Ya, would be hard to believe what Seattle was like when it was affordable :/
Home Repair Tutor ah! Ok, it's the accent! But yeah, I sadly had to leave Seattle (moved to Port Townsend) but I consider myself fortunate that I got to live there when it was a great city . I barely recognize it now. Anyway , subbed to your channel . Have a great day !
Lisa Colbert I was thinking the same thing about trial vs trowel LOL But other than that I love this channel. One of the most helpful remodel, schluter product video & tile setting video creators around. These guys know their stuff and have been kind enough to share their expertise - this is one grateful DIYer right here 🙋🏻♀️Doing all of this in my current bathroom remodel and am grateful for the UA-cam pro visual aides. You can read all the stuff in the world but without seeing it done or doing it yourself, you can’t get the full effect of use of these products or how a realistic remodel might go, common remodel problems and all! Everything I’ve run into this far into my remodel I have learned a fix for. Besides watching UA-cam pro videos and researching & educating myself about standards & codes that must be met, I was raised by two very handy parents, I’ve known my way around power tools long before I attempted to take on any remodel in my current home.
I'm going to be tiling our bathroom, floors and wall. The floor tile will be set on Ditra XL (over OSB). I'm about to cut and install the drywall. Ideally, what size gap should there be between the Ditra and bottom of the drywall for applying the Kerdi band ?
Also, there will be a glass walled shower stall in one corner with acrylic shower pan. The pan is already embedded level on a plinth of self-leveling compound 3/8" thick and extending 1/4" beyond the margins of the pan - so the base of the pan should come flush with the Ditra XL when I've installed it. When I poured the SLC I stuck foam backer rod around the 'bottom' plate of the wood wall frame to serve as an expansion joint. There also needs to be a 1/4" expansion gap between the Ditra and SLC plinth. I was thinking to fill that with backer rod also, but since I'm going to be putting Kerdi band around the pan, do you think I would be just as well filling it with Kerdi Fix ? Cheers.
I'd like to use this method to waterproof my flooring and make sure things were very level on my particle board before placing glue down laminate planks. Can I use this method before my glue down planks?
Is there something else you can use in place of kerdi fix? Hard to find where I live.
Ever heard of the internet?
Thanks for making these great videos. I'm planning installing the travertine tile in 2nd floor bathroom with plywood subfloor. Do I have to install another layer of OSB per Schluter's suggestion? Thanks again.
I have a rental property where I really care about water proofing the bathroom floors outside of shower (shower is already water proof) so I am not doing a reno on the entire bathrooms. I only would be re-doing the floor and the base. How can you water proof where the vanity's toe kick is? Youc an use Kerdi bend if the wall is drywall material, but a section of the vertical space is the vanity. I was told by a tile installer you cannot use thinset on wood toe kick. So if I am concerned about properly sealing the floor to toe kick connection, what are my options if kerdi bend does not work there? The toe kick surface is actually damaged so I could replace the toe kick with a different material. So should I use some material there where it does work with the thinset, and kerdi bend?
What about applying Kerdi fix around the toilet flange ?
Awesome video guys. Can I use 100% silicone in the gap by the tub if I don't have access to kerdi fix?
I did - how did yours go?
Hey!
I have schluter specialized modified mortar.I assume this is the same as modified thin set ? Let me know ty .video helped alot as my fist tiling project starts in 2 days .let me know about the mortar tks
Couple of Questions. Difference between modified and unmodified thinset?
2. I have 5/8ths subfloor. You mentioned 3/4 minimum. Under the underlay. I wanted to apply cement board 3/8ths then put membrane down. I am installing heated floors so was going to relieve the center put in the matting then thinset over to level of cement board onntop of this add membrane then tile. Your thoughts. Is 5/8th subfloor with membrane on top fine before tile .How would you integrate heated floor. Thanks Rob
When you leave a quarter inch gap between the Ditra and wall edges for expansion, why do you fill the gap in when you lay the waterproofing tape down. Doesn’t that defeat the object? I’ve never used the Ditra before, always used 9mm plywood but I’m going to start using it from now on. Good informative videos.
It appears that the silicone type substance out of the tube was used to fill the gap, not the mortar.
For everyone how wants to instal ditra membrane use the Ardex ditra FBM one mortar thinset system! It’s specially designed for ditra system membrane and tiles installation good luck you all greetings from the Netherlands
I sure hope the products you guys show in these videos pay you....because I try my best to buy what you demonstrate.
I don’t accept money from any companies, just like sharing what’s best - however I will take some samples and try them to see if they’re worth recommending
Hi one more question I'd love for you to answer, please!,
I noticed Sal Deblasi in his Ditra installation video didn't let the thinset applied over the Ditra dry overnight like in your video.
Are you doing this added step just to smooth out and eliminate any problems creates by Ditra's waffle pattern before laying tile?
There's no difference in terms of tile bonding in applying tile and thinset over freshly dried thinset laid on Ditra from the night prior, vs applying tile and thinset at the same time on Ditra?
Hi water prove the perimeter, look like we do not have expansion and contraction any more, i wonder what problem we have in the future. Another question you
Fill all the waffle with none modified thin set and next day I wonder if you can use modified thin set to install tiles. Let me know, Thanks again.
Home Depot has fortified thinset morter and medium bed morter. Is fortified the same as modified? What's the difference between thinset and medium bed? Which one do I choose?
Do you have to fill in the squares and let them dry overnight, or can you fill in the squares the next day at the same time of tile application?
What thinset should I use if there was self-leveler used in bathroom , resulting in some plywood but mostly concrete for floor?
i usually use any type of thinset . they all work great. but they recommend unmodified thinset on self level/ concrete.
Not to Necro this comment section or anything, but Schluter does recommend a 2 inch overlap for KERDI installations, so 3/8 inch would not fall within their recommended installation parameters.
I'm looking to redo my bathroom floor with small floor tiles. Like smaller than 2" in diameter. Do I go with ditra or kerdi membrane?
I'm using All Set above the Ditra including setting the mosaics. A modified to set the Ditra over a wood subfloor.
Hello, I am preparing to install 1" hexagonal tile (in sheets) on my bathroom floor. My house has wooden I Beams on 16 inch centers. I'm unsure of the thickness of the plywood subfloor but plan to add another layer to meet the height of strand bamboo flooring. I have a couple of questions at this point. 1. Should I glue the added layer in addition to screwing it down? 2. Should I leave an expansion space of r the added layer in relation to the drywall and, if so, should I fill it with thin set? Thanks.
Great video. One point of confusion for me is the use of modified or unmodified mortars. Schluter has a product, Schluter ALL-SET modified thin set, which according to the installation handbook works for both the Ditra and for the tile. Is this correct?
My question exactly
@@jaegermah I checked with a local tile supplier and with Schluter. You can use ALL-SET for everything. No need for two different types of thin set if you use this product. A nice simplification and great way to avoid wasting unused thin set.
Yes however it is more expensive to buy but the fact it can do everything may make it cheaper in the long run
Good stuff! RIP Franco Harris 32
When doing tiling next day should we be using the unmodified thinset
What is the difference between unmodified and modified thin-set? Would it be the end of the world if I only used modified? Seems like hardware stores around me only stock modified.
I will be doing this to my new remodel, it has only subfloor, I will be installing a shower pan, could I put this membrane to go under the shower pan?
If your using the schluter mortar, do you still have to use modified and unmodified mortar when doing the detra ?
if you can get ALL-SET that’s your best option.
What if i need to do that next to a polystyrene shower base insert? Would it be the same as to the tub?
Hi the thing I just don’t get is that the surface of ditra and ditra heat is not flat and smooth like a board. It undulates because of the notches. So how does the Kerdi band form a seal? What stops the water running back underneath the band following the contours and profile of the ditra mat? Is it the thinset that actually makes the waterproof seal?
Hope you can help as I need to install this soon. Thabks
I had the same question. How does applying Kerdi Band over the seams in the Ditra make it waterproof since thinset is not waterproof? Actually the same goes for the corner transitions since the Kerdi Band is not bonded to a flat surface.
@@sriniwass I’m still none the wiser to this. My assumption now is that the thinset is what stops the water getting through and the Kerdi band merely serves to reinforce the joint to prevent cracks if there is any movement, like tape on drywall seams.
The problem is exacerbated if you use Ditra Heat because you need to make sure the thinset goes all around the heat cable when it crosses a joint.
how does the Keri band that was just laid in place not get disrupted by laying more unmodified thinnest for tiles above?
Very great channel . Thank you
Great video. Do you use modified or unmodified thin set to set the tile after filling the waffles with unmodified thinset?
we use Schluter ALL-SET because it can be used under and over DITRA. Or you can use unmodified to set tile
Would u recommend using this on an upstairs bathroom?
I have a small bathroom floor around 22 square ft. My floor joices are 16” on center but my plywood is 1/2 or 5/8 can I use the ditra still
I am planning on using the Ditra and have a KBRS shower pan already installed. I am going to be tiling the shower pan. Is the 1/4" reveal where the DItra meets the front of the shower pan necessary in this instance? I have read that you should leave a 1/2 gap for expansion between the wall and the floor to prevent the drywall from cracking. It is hard to tell if you did this in the video.
the 1/4” gap should be plenty; set your floor tile and also leave at least a 1/8” gap at the curb then you can set your vertical curb tile (normally the last tile step) and cover the 1/8” gap
6:20 is it a good idea to saturate the drywall before applying thinset to it, similar to a wood substrate?
It is good to saturate any dry material for substrate such as wood, osb and older layed cement floor. Modified Schluter thin set is also recommended for any dry substrate to avoid skinning and allow a slow even curing process.
Is it an issue if your plywood floor has a DRYLOK coating on it?
high quality video. keep it up
+daxfactor23 thanks :)
I just bought this ditra and kerdi band to do my bathroom floor and after watching these vids along with the added cost this looks like a total nightmare to install. I laid out and cut my ditra floor and did not overlap the 2" omg
Jeff k The Ditra doesn’t get overlapped, only the kerdi-band does.
Wonderful video 👍👍
Hard to run heating cable through this ditra w/ all that thinset spread everywhere. So, do you have to choose between heated floors that aren’t waterproof and non-heated floors that are waterproof?
Excellent vids !! Thank you
In the first part it is mentioned that toilet leaks aren’t as big of an issue with kerdi. Is there any special detail given to the drain connection?
yes, apply Kerdi-Fix between the toilet closet flange and Ditra. That will help prevent additional damage
Thank you for the instruction. Good Job!
What is different here? In the travertine video the tradesmen did not fill in the waffle and let it dry before tiling. Is this a preference thing or is something different about the application?
Do you have a video that would be a "part 3" to this, which would show how to plan the layout of tile on the floor, any differences to keep in mind in planning with various tile sizes (12x12, 12x24, etc), how to determine where to place cut tiles to have the best finished look, etc? Love the vids, very helpful and big confidence boosters that this is something a DIY'er can do!
No part 3 quite yet. Start with a paper diagram and plan the layout in a grid. Then dry fit the tiles to get a better picture of pitfalls
Can you use modified thinset on top of your dried unmodified thinset? I think my porcelain tile thinset, by Mapei, is a modified one.
Q: is it recommended to fill in the wafers in a separate step?? ie. dry thinset from previous day bonding to the thinset of the next day... I thought the idea of this uncoupling floor was that the tile which is thinset to the Ditra moves in the wafer. I do not think I have seen anyone just filling in the waffles the night before...
Doesn't matter. The thinset on the tile bonds to the thinset in the ditra.
I don’t understand , if it doesn’t matter, why the waffle is there in the first place then?
@@chuckloh3008 because the ditra is two parts if you look at it cross-sectionally. the bottom portion is attached to the subfloor via mortar. the top portion is mechanically connected to the tile with mortar that fits solidly into the wafers. there shouldn't be any movement between the top portion and the tile/mortar mix. The decoupling of the tile and subfloor is taking place between the top and bottom portions of the ditra itself.
You said unmodified under and modified on top then you said i am going to go ahead and use the unmodified when you started on top. So which is it?
would free standing (no feet) bathtub sit on top of the DITRA over the sub floor and water proof around it? Or how would that work?
Hi PJ, are you describing a standard tub shower combo where the tub is in an alcove or a tub that's sitting in the middle of the room?
great job BTW👍👍
It lookslike you filling in the expansion space between the ditra and the wall with thin-set? Should that 1/4 inch or so be left open for movement?
My local shop doesn't carry Kerdi fix. Any other i can use?
yes, what products do they have?
@@HomeRepairTutor unfortunately I asked HD employees for help and they had no idea of what I was talking about. They all guided me to 100% silicone products.
@@luigibarrera4663 you have two options, first would be to find a local Schluter distributor as they will have Kerdi-Fix. Second, you could buy it off Amazon, here’s a link in case that’s an efficient option amzn.to/3deEaIA
Ordered from Amazon. Thank you!
Would you still use the Ditra in other rooms such as a kitchen?
Hey! THANK YOU for the video. I'd deeply appreciate your reply.
Is it necessary to use the Kerdi band if installing Ditra not in a bathroom, but in an entryway?
Does one always have to use Kerdi band on the seams between Ditra sheets and between Ditra and walls regardless of the room?
2years ago but the answer is no. Not required for dry areas like halls etc. Kerdi band is good to give superior protection from water getting into areas where damage could be done. A second floor bathroom or kitchen or laundry room would be good examples. If there is a leak or just sloppy showering, kerdi band used to seal the ditra will help prevent unwanted water from leaking through subfloor to the ceiling below. Up to a point of course. Keep in mind that if you have a tub with a plugged overflow left running all night, no amount of waterproofing is going to stop water flowing out the room and down the stairs on a path of destruction.
@@colinnicols5387 Thank you for your thoughtful answer despite the passage of time.
I don’t see the need to have the bathroom floor so waterproof. Wet feet or a bit of shower splash on a tile floor is not enough to cause a problem. You would just wipe that up with a towel. If you have a serious spill like a tub overflowing, the water will just wash out into the hallway anyway. Great video explain the install though. You always do a good job explaining things fully.
Do you have to use kirdi fix sealant or can any sealant work I have Go board sealant?
Great work as always, keep the videos coming there greeaattt.....
Thank you
Great video Learned alot thanks
Hubby and I are attempting our first tile project and installing Ditra tonight. Do we have to do the kerdi membrane along the walls? Or is it just preference? Your videos on Ditra have been SO helpful-thank you!
+Kaylie Fitzgerald you don't have to do the KERDI along the wall but it will make the room more watertight. Thanks so much for your kind words!! Keep me posted on your project, super stoked for you :D
What if I used modified thin set with the ditra tape on the seams of the kerdi board? Do I have to remove it and redo it with modified? Thanks.
Thank you very helpful.
Is it recommended to fill in the waffles? I'm at this point, got the kerdi down.
You guys make this look easy!
+adam b yes, fill in the waffles with thin-set then apply more thin-set with ridges and backbutter tiles with ridges facing the same direction as those on the DITRA 👍
Thank you for this video!
How do I do this with cement board in front of tub with no ditra? Or add ditra on top of cement board?
incredible, straight up, thank you
Thank you, hope it helps with your project
Quick qsn, is it okay to use a wall profile on the floor?
Send me a picture jeff@homerepairtutor.com
Did already
after waterproofing the ditra,can i put in pvc moulding for the wall instead of tile moulding?
Are you referring to baseboard molding? If so, that’s fine
@@HomeRepairTutor Yes! thank you very much love your channel!
@@leileili I will be doing this as well!
Can u lay life prove wood planks over this?
I have a question about my bathroom tub shower walls. I am still trying to understand the benefits of modified vs. non-modified cement. My bathtub surround was installed with that purple drywall and already has fiberglass tape and mud on it. You say remove any mud from the floor. Can I coat my tub surround with non-modified cement to mitigate the mud that was applied and then cover with some kind of water-proofing before installing 1-ft square ceramic tile?
Does adding the Kerdi-Band affect the ability of the tile to adhere since those areas won't have direct contact to the waffle pattern?
+Joy Nilsson-Green great question, tile will adhere to KERDI-BAND. What kind of remodeling are you tackling
bathroom flooring much like the one used in the demo vid. 12x24 porcelain in a 5x5 flooring area.
I have OSB as a subfloor. Can this go over it same way? Also, I plan to use Laticrete Floor Warming mats in wall areas. Would this go over it just before tiling or before embedding the warming matts?
Schluter literature shows mat going down first then ditra next then finally tile
Question sir, can you set tile the same day??? Or wait for it to dry?
He said you can do it the same day but it may be kind of messy after you have filled in the seams and so on.
Why do you have to use modified thinset below the ditra and unmodified on top?
Just to clarify, when you are filling the Ditra with the thinset (before tiling), you are not completely covering the Ditra (no orange showing), but just filling the divets, right?
Correct, just the waffles. And when tiling over Ditra it’s best to use unmodified thin-set mortar and back butter the tiles.
Thank you! One other quick question - I used Mapei Uncoupling Thinset with my Kerdi Board, am planning to use the same mixed with MAPEI's Polymer Additive to adhere the Ditra to plywood, then use the Uncoupling Thinset, mixed with water, for installing all my floor and wall tile. I know you guys like to recommend all the Schluter mortar products, but haven't been able to find them in my area. Do you have any experience with the Mapei products, and do you feel that they will work ok?
Can you lay the ditra onto the plywood using modified thin set then wait a few days to tile with unmodified thin set?
Yes
How do I do this under baseboard plumbing?
Can i install dirt over 3 inch wide pine plank floor
? Installing the Kerdi band to seams and around the tub, do use the same modified mix I used to lay the ditra to the sub floor??
He say unmodified at about 3:00. Also, noticed that they say so in the video description. 👍
So good!
I read that Schlueter ALL-SET can be used on TOP of Kerdi..... is that not true?
very nice and easy installation
+Luis Gutierrez thank you, it's very straight forward 👍
I was told I cold use a modified thinset like ardex 5 to do all tile work in my bathroom. Same thinset to use for my wedi system and same for ditra. Just have to let dry on top of ditra before laying tile on it the next day. Is that true?
Yes, modified thin-set can be used to fill the DITRA voids as long as it dries. Then the next day, Tile can be set with unmodified thin-set. Ardex X5 is modified though. That said, Ardex will warranty it’s use over most substrates
Whats that tape like thing u put on the underlayment. Whats it called?
Kerdi Band
Can I use this over vinyl floor?
You can use Ditra over vinyl but we recommend removing the old flooring to see what the subfloor looks like.
Modified for plywood subfloor unmodified for over concrete or self leveling concrete
Use Schluter ALL-SET for either wood or concrete 👍🏼