INSTALLATION: Membrane

• LATICRETE International Inc., Bethany, Conn., introduces STRATA_MAT™ XT, a high-performance uncoupling membrane designed specifically for ceramic-tile and dimension-stone installations. STRATA_MAT XT provides vapor management, eliminates transmission of in-plane substrate cracks of up to 1/8” (3mm), and assists with easier floor layout with a transparency allowing sighting of the underlying substrate during installation.

The 5/16″ (7.9mm) underlayment mat helps to creates an even transition between typical ¼” to 3/8″ (3mm to 9 mm) tile and 3/4″ (19mm) hardwood flooring. This new product also allows installers to see mortar coverage underneath the mat during installation without having to lift and verify.

STRATA_MAT XT features Mortar Hydration Vents, which create a mechanical bond between the mat and adhesive mortar and allow the mortar to cure faster. This provides a stronger bond of tile and permits faster time to grout when using both modified or unmodified mortars—enabling the use of the appropriate mortar for an installation.

Part of the LATICRETE® Lifetime System Warranty, STRATA_MAT XT may be used on almost any substrate including concrete, mortar beds, oriented strand board, exterior glue plywood, cement backer board, cement terrazzo, resilient flooring, existing tile or stone, gypsum underlayment or lightweight concrete.

STRATA_MAT XT is available in 150 ft² rolls measuring 45” x 40’ (13.9m² – 1.14m x 12.2m).

“Lightweight and easy to carry, STRATA_MAT™ XT is also fast to install with standard tools,” said Sean Boyle, senior director of marketing and product management. “This next-generation product has countless applications. For example, it is suitable for interior non-industrial vehicular traffic applications over concrete substrates, and it can also be used to create an even transition between tile and hardwood flooring. The list goes on and on.”

CONTACT: LATICRETE International Inc., 203-393-3722