Why You Should Consider Schluter Systems

Ceramic Tile Center - Proud Supplier of Schluter Systems

At Ceramic Tile Center, we know that successful installations depend on having the right materials, tools, and supplies. We have established relationships with several partners to ensure that you have what you need to get the bathroom or kitchen you want. One of the companies we are proud to partner with is Schluter Systems because of its commitment to creating innovative solutions.

How Did Schluter Systems Come To Be?

Schluter Systems was founded in Germany in 1966 by Werner Schluter. When he was 12 years old, he decided to become a Master Tile Setter after observing one at work when he was on his way home from school. It took seven years as an apprentice and journeyman to gain the necessary training to start his own tile installation company. It was well worth the time and effort, however, because Mr. Schluter was able to develop practical solutions to challenges in tile installation by applying the extensive knowledge he had attained of tile assemblies. Since that time, the company that bears his name has been meeting the needs of a rapidly evolving industry consistently.

What Is Schluter Systems Known For?

Schluter Systems prides itself on being one step ahead of the times. Here are some of its most popular innovations:

1. Edge Profiles

When the tile in your bathroom or kitchen transitions to another material, the area between the two is called the edge profile. In the past, this area caused problems in tile installation. The edges of the tile that were exposed were vulnerable to breaking or chipping. Mr. Schluter solved this problem in 1975 with the introduction of the Schluter-SCHIENE, a metal angle in the shape of an "L." It would provide a transition to adjoining surfaces that was straight and smooth by hiding the unglazed portion while protecting the edge of the tiles.

More recently, Schluter Systems has developed the DILEX line which is a profile for inside corners that flexes with the substrate and prevents cracking of the tiles.

2. Tile Underlayment

The subfloor on which a tile floor is installed is typically made of wood, which is prone to contraction and expansion with the change of seasons. This movement, also known as deflection, can cause cracking and loosening of not only tiles but the grout between them. Schluter Systems offers a tile underlayment called DITRA. It goes on top of the subfloor, under the tile, and acts as a decoupling membrane between the two. This keeps the tile intact while allowing the subfloor to move according to its natural inclinations.

The DITRA underlayment offers other appealing options. Tile floors can be unpleasantly cold underfoot, but the DITRA-HEAT system offers an electric heating system as part of the underlayment, making your tile floors more comfortable and cozy. The DITRA-HEAT-DUO reduces impact sound transmission through the addition of an integrated bonding fleece. For a multi-story construction, this system may be ideal.

3. Waterproof Shower Systems

Schluter offers an integrated family of products that eliminates the risk of penetration into a shower system by water and vapor when installed together. This is important to prevent the growth of potentially dangerous mold, which can happen with traditional tile and grout joints in the shower that are not essentially waterproof but water-resistant. This is an important innovation as more people are having low-threshold or curbless showers installed in anticipation of aging in place. As a bonus, installation time is drastically reduced by installing a system that is specifically designed to work together. The secret is Schluter's KERDI waterproof bonded membrane that is applied directly to the mortar bed.

Ceramic Tile Center is a proud supplier of Schluter Systems. For more information about the products we offer or professional advice, contact us at 707-578-1350.

Click Here to download the current Schluter Systems catalog and price List.