Here's How Long You Should Wait Before Installing The Tiles Over Schluter
There's nothing quite like the beauty of a fully tiled bathroom, and there is a wide variety of stunning colors or intricate patterns to choose from. Yet, before you can begin the task of installing tiles to your space, you must ensure the walls are in the best condition possible to enable good adherence. Schluter Systems are waterproofing membranes, in several different forms, that help to ensure corners, edges, and the tiles themselves sit on a base that's water resistant. That helps prevent moisture from seeping into them and damaging the underlying drywall or materials.
However, to get the refined look this product can offer, it's critical to apply it properly and allow the correct amount of time to set. If you are using a product like Schluter KERDI-BOARD in areas that will often get wet, you should wait at least 24 hours before you apply the tiles. This gives the material ample time to dry and become waterproof, however, there are variations to this rule.
The importance of curing
In most applications of KERDI-BOARD, you can begin applying the tiles to the surface the same day, often without much delay (though there's no harm in waiting a bit). There are exceptions to this, though, especially if you are placing the board on any curved surface or any non-bearing partition. For example, if you are using it in a shower, it's important to ensure there is ample time for the material to cure in wet situations.
The term curing refers to a change in the composition of the material in which the adhesive used to create the bond shrinks in volume and dries throughout. When this happens, the polymers and resins within it can adhere better to the surface of the wall. In short, curing the membrane for at least 24 hours is a must because it creates a solid bond for the tiles to stick to, and will prevent any movement and subsequent leaks in the future.
Check building codes and apply with care
While you may be in a hurry to get your project done, you should first check local building codes to find out if any applications of Schluter KERDI-BOARD fall under construction permitting and inspections. In some situations, an inspection must be conducted to ensure the application is waterproof before any tile can be installed over it. That may even require you to have your local officials come in for a formal inspection before a single tile is put up.
Another popular tiling product is Schluter DITRA-HEAT, which is a membrane placed on the ground to support radiant heated flooring. Interestingly, you do not need to wait to tile with this system, rather, you can install the material first, then place the heating cables according to your desired layout in the Schluter, test them, and start installing tile right over the top. When opting for any type of specialized waterproofing system it is always recommended to check the manufacturer's instructions to make sure you are getting the best from the product.