Decoupling membranes - for crack-free tile coverings
There is nothing more annoying than newly laid tiles that become damaged after some time due to stress transfer. When looking for measures to prevent this, one automatically stumbles upon the topic of "decoupling" and decoupling mats. Such mats act as a buffer zone between the subfloor and the tile covering, absorbing tension. You can also find more information in the article "Decoupling mats explained: protection and stability for your floor coverings" from our guide.
What does decoupling mean?
Decoupling is generally the process of separating two connected parts from each other. This is to prevent vibrations, movements and tensions from being transmitted. When laying tiles in particular, so-called decoupling mats are used to seperate the floor covering from the subfloor. This prevents stress cracks and other damage to the tiles.
What is a decoupling mat?
Decoupling mats are mats with a special structure that are designed to decouple tiles. They are usually made of plastic and consist of several layers and certain nonwoven fabrics. Decoupling of tiles with such mats is of utmost importance. Movements and tensions of the subsurface are taken up so that there is no transfer to the tile covering.
Advantages and functions of uncoupling membranes
- Tensions and movements from the subsurface are absorbed, so that the covering is protected from cracks and breaks.
- Special decoupling mats allow for better ventilation and vapor equalization under the tiles, allowing freshly laid screeds to dry more quickly.
- The load-bearing capacity of the floor coverings is increased so that they can withstand higher loads
- Often decoupling mats have simultaneously a sealing and sound-reducing effect.
- They offer improved flexibility during installation as they compensate for unevenness in the subfloor and thus create an even base for the top layer.
How are decoupling mats installed?
The following steps are to be carried out one after the other when laying decoupling mats to perform:
- First, the surface must be prepared. It should be stable, dry and free of dirt. Leveling measures must be carried out beforehand.
- A notched trowel(4 x 4 mm) is now used to apply suitable flexible adhesive.
- The trimmed decoupling mats are now embedded in the adhesive with the carrier fleece and pressed down with a pressure roller. The mat should not be stretched too much.
- The impacts of the decoupling tracks are now covered with sealing tape. Prefabricated molded parts are used for sealing in corners and wall transitions.
Now you can start laying the tiles indoors. Outside you should wait until the adhesive has completely hardened.
