Ceramic Tile Solution

Keith Sawlor, May 6, 2013 | Posted in Build; Tagged Interior Selections

Ceramic tile is commonly used in today’s homes, especially in areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, foyers, and sunrooms. 

Homeowners like ceramic tile for its durability and modern appearance, and in most cases, installation is straightforward and simple.

However, ceramic tile installed on top of concrete can be problematic. Concrete is known to settle or shrink, and it can develop small cracks, especially during the first year.

When hard, non-flexible ceramic tile is installed on top of concrete, the cracks are transferred to the tile. Not only does this look unappealing, but the solution is expensive—and temporary. At that point, your only option would be to replace the cracked tiles, and there’s no guarantee they wouldn’t just crack again.

That’s why a product like the Schluter®-DITRA membrane is useful, as it is designed to protect ceramic tiles from small amounts of movement in concrete floors. While it is not required by the National Building Code, Schluter®-DITRA is certainly an investment worth making for your home.

Learn more about the Schluter®-DITRA  membrane.

Keith Sawlor

Keith Sawlor is the second generation Owner of Sawlor Built Homes. With more than 35 years experience building custom homes in Nova Scotia, Keith has built a team that mirrors his professional knowledge and values.

Keith is a Certified Residential Builder who is also certified with many leading industry organizations. He is a Passive House Institute US (PHIUS) Certified Builder, a Net Zero Energy (NZE) Certified Builder, a Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) R-2000 Certified Builder, and a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS).

Keith is a Past Board Member of the Atlantic Home Warranty Program as well as the Canadian Home Builders' Association Nova Scotia. He is involved in many other industry programs and associations, such as the Canadian Home Builders’ Association National and Better Business Bureau.