Porch & Patio Systems
Tile and Stone coverings are ideal for outdoor porch and patio applications due to their aesthetic appeal, durability, and non-slip surfaces. However, proper water management and crack isolation systems are needed to ensure these coverings will last through years of abuse from the elements. The sections below outline some details about waterproofing, crack isolation, and drainage for exterior applications.
Waterproofing & Crack Isolation
A waterproofing layer is typically used just below the tile or stone surface. This is the first line of defense in preventing water from entering the substructure where it can cause significant damage.
Crack Isolation Membranes are used to reduce in-plane differential stresses (the main cause of cracking and delaminating) in a tile or stone covering through a method of uncoupling. Uncoupling simply refers to allowing subsurface layers to move relatively independent of one another, so the top layer can "float" and not be subjected to large lateral deformations which typically occur in underlying soils, concretes, or wood structures.
We strongly recommend Schluter Systems Ditra be used under tile or stone surfaces for exterior applications because when used properly it serves as both a waterproofing and crack isolation membrane.
Crack Isolation Membranes are used to reduce in-plane differential stresses (the main cause of cracking and delaminating) in a tile or stone covering through a method of uncoupling. Uncoupling simply refers to allowing subsurface layers to move relatively independent of one another, so the top layer can "float" and not be subjected to large lateral deformations which typically occur in underlying soils, concretes, or wood structures.
We strongly recommend Schluter Systems Ditra be used under tile or stone surfaces for exterior applications because when used properly it serves as both a waterproofing and crack isolation membrane.
Drainage
Drainage systems are used to remove water which has penetrated the waterproofing layer or has been sucked into the substructure by wood or concrete. Drainage systems help prevent trapped water from damaging the tile or stone surface during freeze/thaw cycles and also help safeguard underlying levels from water damage. Schluter Systems has developed products such as Troba (left) and attractive metal drip edging (right) for proper drainage.
Clean finished edging removes drained water