Gypcrete and Crack Membranes

Brian_18

Ken, I'm a HO, and did LOTS of homework before doing my kitchen project. First, "Gypcrete" is too generic a term, and holds LOTS of stygma for poor durability. Just the mention of "Gypcrete" to some contractors causes extremely negative reactions. The products on the market today are in my opinion a distant relative to the old "Gypcrete". Most manufacturers make a specialized product formulated for Radiant Floors. The compressive strength compares to concrete (3000lbs range), and given the proper sealant are very durable and water resistant. I used a product from Maxxon, called ThermaFloor. Maxxon DOES make a "Crack Suppression Mat", which they recommend in some difficult situations. it IS put down FIRST, it's a nylon mesh, with a non-woven fabric on it. I'm not sure if it's to be glued, or stapled down, as I didn't use it. My tile contractor used a membrane material called Ditra, made by Schluter (on top of the "Gyp"). I'm sure other manufacturers have comparable products that are just as good. The installation was, I put down 1 x 3 common pine sleeper spacers where the hard wood area was to be installed. The tiled area was left open. I put down 3/8" PEX tube in the pre-determined configuration. The contractor came in and sprayed a sealer-bonding agent down, then pumped in and floated the "Gyp". We left everything set and dry for a week, before the tile setter came in and put down the Ditra, and set the tile. Careful attention was given to grout joints which we considered "active" (line where addition(s) joined to original house). Made sure a grout joint was put exactly in those areas, and used flexible grout (looks like caulking)in those lines. I've had a full heating season on the floor, and absolutely no problems.
My 2¢ for what it's worth.
Brian

Ken_28

Installation of Crack Membrane

What is your experience with the tile membranes? Personally I am not convinced of their effectiveness. I have a customer insisting that his tile guy told him to install the membrane under(yes under) the gyp and then on top of the gyp. I am installing tube on top of plywood. I think the gyp is just going to crack up and not have anything to bond to. Your knowledge and opinions please!

Ken_28

Installation of Crack Membrane

What is your experience with the tile membranes? Personally I am not convinced of their effectiveness. I have a customer insisting that his tile guy told him to install the membrane under(yes under) the gyp and then on top of the gyp. I am installing tube on top of plywood. I think the gyp is just going to crack up and not have anything to bond to. Your knowledge and opinions please!

hr

If you check with the Gyp manufactures

I think you will find they prefer you spray the plywood with a bonding spray. Looks and smells like Elmers glue to me?

Then the top of the gyp must be sealed and preped properly for tile application. Again refer to the Gyp manufactures info.

I'm not a huge fan of tile on gyp. If the Gyp ever gets wet.. bad news.

That is why you need to follow the Gyp instruction when putting tile over it. I don't believe an actual tile membrane is needed. I believe a liquid sealer product should work. If you really want to tile over gyp.

Then again the tilesetter has to warranty the job. You might go with his recomendation for the tile on top. But go with the Gyp folks advise for gyp over plywood.

hot rod

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Drew_2

Gyp Membrane

Take a look at our Website,we've manufactured tile membrane for 40 years. www.noblecompany.com, click on applications, look under specialty applications. You'll find a document for membane and gyp.