Manufacturers and contractors are welcome to contribute to the Expert Advice section. Schlüter-Systems have prepared a series of advisory technical articles relating to the ongoing problems associated with movement in floor tile installations. Contract Flooring Magazine leads the way for publishing such expert advice online for reference by the flooring, building and construction industry.
Contract Flooring Magazine articles are read by industries top professionals and decision makers including Architects, Specifiers, flooring and building industry manufacturers.
If you would like to contribute to this section, please contact us.
Read our definitive series on movement joints and why they are needed. We also cover the technical aspects regarding their installation.
Schlüter®–Systems 'Ian Knifton' expert in this field, have contributed a Movement Joint Series of technical articles. A valuable trade resource.
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| Article Index |
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| Anhydrite Screeds - Increase in Tiling Queries |
| Residual moisture should not exceed 0.5% |
| Movement Joints |
| All Pages |
With the increased usage of anhydrite screeds in the UK - particularly in new-build projects, world market-leader in tiling solutions, Schluter-Systems Ltd., is often asked if it is possible to tile onto them successfully with ceramics and natural stone.
As with all screeds, as long as appropriate steps are taken, there is no reason why tiled surfaces over anhydrite screeds cannot stay looking good for many years.
However, as Schluter Technical Manager Ian Knifton explains, the choice of a ceramic or natural stone floor on anhydrite screeds needs careful consideration at the design stage - and builders should consider bringing in specialist tiling contractors. Or, at the very least, seek advice from the tile manufacturers or suppliers - as indeed, they should for all types of screed.
Also, the tiling industry's trade body, The Tile Association, has published a 21-page paper entitled "Tiling to Calcium Sulfate Based Screeds" (available from The Tile Association - www.tiles.org.uk) which looks in detail at all considerations required for the perfect tiling installation.
By "anhydrite screeds" we mean pump-applied, self-levelling screeds based on a calcium sulfate binder, which is used primarily in new-build domestic and commercial projects to provide a flat, smooth surface to take thin floor coverings, including tiles. The largest manufacturer of anhydrite screeds is Lafarge Gyvlon, which says that Anhydrous Calcium Sulfate - CaS04 - can be derived from gypsum, which comes from mines, power stations, and is a by-product of the production of hydrofluoric acid, which is common in the UK.
One of the key considerations for a sound tiling installation on anhydrite screeds, is the preparation before tiling. The Tile Association recommends that where a calcium sulfate screed has been used - particularly where the finished floor may be exposed to moisture - a watertight membrane is installed.
