The free space provides an escape route for excess moisture and vapor that could otherwise cause damage to the tile layer above.
What is ditra flooring.
Ditra xl allows for ceramic tile application over single layer plywood osb subfloors on joists spaced at 24 610 mm o c.
Uncoupling waterproofing vapor management and support to ensure a long lasting installation.
There was an alternative product mentioned in the forum thread called protegga which looks to be a slightly less expensive copy of the ditra you can read john bridge s comments about ditra knockoffs on his tile forum.
The distinguishing feature of ditra is the existence of free space created by the configured channels on the underside of the matting.
The stud structure of ditra heat is specifically designed to allow for the easy installation of ditra heat e hk heating cables.
Thus ditra effectively manages moisture beneath the tile covering.
Waterproofing ditra matting creates a waterproofing assembly with the tile layer as long as the joints floor to wall transitions and connections to building fixtures are properly installed.
Ditra is the right choice when installing flooring over concrete or other material that requires a moisture barrier to prevent damage to flooring.
The price difference between the two products.
I think what i like about it the most is the innovation in it.
Ditra xl is 5 16 7 mm thick to create an even transition between typical 5 16 7 mm thick tile and 3 4 19 mm thick hardwood flooring.
Uncoupling ditra matting decouples the floor covering from the substrate which means that movement in the substrate will not affect the tiles.
Schluter ditra heat integrates customizable comfortable electric floor warming with the functions associated with ditra.
When using cbu the tile is mortared directly to the board and expansion or shifting of the subfloor is likely to.
I think it probably took them a good while to figure out how to deal with the sheer stress in large tile floors and this solution is very unique.