Schluter-KERDI is a flexible sheet-applied bonded waterproofing membrane that also serves as a vapour retarder and offers limited crack-bridging capability. It consists of a central layer of modified polyethylene (PEVA) laminated on both faces to allow mechanical anchoring into the thin-set mo...
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Schluter-KERDI is a flexible sheet-applied bonded waterproofing membrane that also serves as a vapour retarder and offers limited crack-bridging capability. It consists of a central layer of modified polyethylene (PEVA) laminated on both faces to allow mechanical anchoring into the thin-set mortar. KERDI is designed for the installation of ceramic or natural stone tiles: tiles are bonded directly to the membrane using the thin-set method. Other trowel-applied materials, such as plaster, can also be applied over KERDI.
KERDI membranes have been evaluated according to the Standard Method for the Testing and Evaluation of Volatile Organic Chemical Emissions from Indoor Sources Using Environmental Chambers, Version 1.1, and comply with California Specification 01350. This specification is referenced by numerous green building standards and environmental rating systems.
Installation:
1. The substrate must be clean, flat and suitable to carry the intended loads. The thin-set mortar used to bond KERDI must be compatible with the substrate and must mechanically key into the non-woven fabric of the membrane. In practice, Schluter-SET, Schluter-ALL-SET, Schluter-FAST-SET or an unmodified thin-set mortar are commonly used. Cut the KERDI membrane to the required size prior to installation.
2. Spread the thin-set mortar directly onto the substrate using a V-notched trowel 1/4" x 3/16" (6 mm x 5 mm) or the Schluter®-KERDI-TROWEL (square-notched 1/8" x 1/8" / 3 mm x 3 mm). Observe the mortar's open time. Press the KERDI membrane into the thin-set mortar using light diagonal pressure with the flat side of the trowel (held at an angle) and ensure air pockets are expelled.
3. Joints are made by overlapping KERDI edges by 2" (5 cm) or by applying a KERDI-BAND sealing strip, set in Schluter-SET, Schluter-ALL-SET, Schluter-FAST-SET or an unmodified thin-set mortar, for butt joints.
4. For inside and outside corners use preformed KERDI-KERECK-F pieces. For floor/wall connections use KERDI-BAND. Apply KERDI-SEAL-PS sealant at hand-shower and body-spray connections, and KERDI-SEAL-MV at the mixing valve. For pipe penetrations and protection of moisture-sensitive boards use KERDI-FIX or an appropriate sealant.
5. Junctions around fixed elements are made with KERDI, KERDI-BAND or KERDI-FLEX in combination with KERDI-FIX or trowel-applied waterproofing materials (urethane or similar moisture-curing products), or other suitable sealants.
6. Separate KERDI from existing movement, structural and expansion joints. Cover these joints with KERDI-FLEX. To allow for larger movements, the centre section of KERDI-FLEX can be folded and inserted into the expansion joint cavity before bonding.
7. Once the membrane and all corners, joints and connections are properly installed and watertight, the assembly is ready to receive tile.
Note: Assembly waterproofing test
Wait 24 hours for the thin-set mortar to cure before performing the waterproofing test of joints and connections.
8. For thin-set tile installation, apply Schluter-SET, Schluter-ALL-SET, Schluter-FAST-SET or an unmodified thin-set mortar directly to the exposed face of KERDI and set the tiles. For acid-resistant surfaces use an epoxy adhesive for bonding and grouting.
For complete installation instructions and the product warranty conditions for KERDI (showers, steam showers, bathtub surrounds) and KERDI-DS for steam showers, download the Schluter shower system installation manual or view the installation videos below.
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