A key part of tile and stone installation is preparing the substrate for the covering material.
Getting this bit right is essential, yet preparing for the multitude of challenges that could crop up on site is a difficult task. Schlüter’s KERDI-BOARD goes a long way to solving some of these challenges, the company says, making light work of substrate preparation and installation in readiness for tile or stone.
Schlüter-KERDI-BOARD is a multi-functional tile substrate for wall areas, which can be used for creating bonded waterproofing assemblies with tile coverings. The product also has many applications as a structural panel, meaning it can be used to create a tile substrate for walls, but it can also be used to build shelving or vanity units for example. Other variations available in the range include prefabricated panels for pipe coverings and prefabricated elements for the creation of storage.
The light weight of the product should not be underestimated, Schlüter says, as it also has considerable strength. KERDI-BOARD is capable of supporting up to 60kg/sqm. As well as being light weight, it’s reportedly easy to cut using a utility knife, meaning all work can be done on site, accommodating the complexities and flexibility needed for individual construction sites. Time savings on cutting to size or lifting and carrying usually heavy products like cement-based boards are greatly appreciated in the construction chain.
A choice of seven thicknesses, ranging from 5mm to 50mm, makes KERDI-BOARD suitable for a range of applications. It also comes with CE-marked waterproofing, meaning it’s also suitable for use in wet areas. Fixing KERDI-BOARD is as simple as using screws and washers, Schlüter says, with additional KERDI accessories being used to ensure the installation is fully watertight.
The product was successfully utilised to its full potential at the Headland Hotel in Cornwall, the company says. A serpentine wall was created for one of the pools, constructed with the help of KERDI-BOARD-V, and clad with River Stone to give a “stunning” finish. The V variant was said to be a key component in helping create curved walls while meeting the requirement for a waterproof solution that would also be suitable to use in a pool area.
Another case study where KERDI-BOARD was utilised was a high-end residential project in Kent which saw a 5m tall porcelain tile feature mounted to one of the walls in the living room. KERDI-BOARD in 19mm thickness was used to build the wall out and sufficiently prepare the area for the addition of the tile feature. The product’s strength was a key feature needed to complete this project.
There are various ways that KERDI-BOARD can be utilised in different environments, Schlüter says. The product’s light weight and easy to cut benefits, along with a wide array of options available, makes it suitable to pair with tile or stone, whether in a wet environment or elsewhere. There’s plenty of room for creativity and Schlüter’s technical support team can support where needed. g
www.schluter.co.uk
