To fully utilize the long-term durability of ceramic tiling, whether heated or not, it is important
that the design, construction and preparation of the subfloor is carried out correctly.
It is essential that the sub-floor be sufficiently rigid to support the ultimate weight that
it will have to bear without movement or deflection.
The choice of products for subfloor preparation and tile will vary depending on the existing
subfloor, preferred tiling system and choice of tile. This document is only intended to be an
outline guide to laying ceramic floor tiles. Further help regarding floor preparation and tile
application is available from the tile adhesive manufacturers and/or the Tile Council of
America (TCA) Tel: 864-646-8453, website: www.tileusa.com. Alternatively, you may wish to seek
professional advice e.g. an architect/contractor.
Subfloor Preparation
Prior to heater installation, it is important that the subfloor is properly prepared as per
Tile Council of America Guidelines.
WOOD SUBFLOOR: Boards need to be of suitable material or requires backer board. Chipboard
and O.S.B. boards (flake boards) are not suitable bases for ceramic floor tiling.
SUBFLOOR PREVIOUSLY COVERED IN LINOLEUM, CORK OR CARPETING: All old flooring and adhesive
must be removed. If bitumen is present as adhesive residues it must be removed. If the bitumen
is a damp proofing membrane or isolation membrane it must be covered with a minimum 2” of
sand/cement self leveler, taking care not to puncture the bitumen coating. If using other damp
proofing or tanking systems, contact the manufacturer for advice.
We strongly recommend installing tile and stone flooring according to manufacturer’s recommendations, TCA guidelines
and ANSI specifications.
Special Precautions
MOSAIC TILE AND PORCELAIN: When installing mosaic tile and CERTAIN PORCELAIN, we
recommend a two-step process. Cover the space heating cable with latex self-leveling compound
before tiling to ensure a flat, smooth surface, then thin set the mosaic according to typical
practice.
EXPANSION JOINTS: Do not install the space heating cable through an expansion joint. Install
the space heating cable right up to the joint, if necessary, but do not bridge the joint.
INSULATION: Do not install rigid insulation directly above or below backer board or mortar.
If possible, install insulation as shown in diagrams.
Insulation dramatically enhances the performance and efficiency of floor warming systems.
Subfloor preparation - technical notes
12
Summary of Contents for USDW360
Page 9: ...9 Making electrical provision for the heater ...
Page 10: ...10 Heater Information ...
Page 11: ...11 ...
Page 14: ...Wiring configurations 14 ...
Page 26: ...26 NOTES ...
Page 28: ......