Electric Floor Warming System
with Integrated Uncoupling Technology???
Electric Floor Warming System with Integrated Uncoupling Technology
Ceramic and stone tiles are the ideal surface coverings because they are durable, easy to maintain, and hygienic. However two common barriers to the selection of tile as a floor covering are concerns about cracking and the perception that tiles are cold.
Floor warming systems are a growing trend in tile applications, but none address concerns about cracking. A viable installation system must address the magnified fluctuations in temperature that contribute to increased shear stresses between the substrate and the tile covering.
Uncoupling
Tile has been successfully installed for thousands of years by incorporating an uncoupling layer, or forgiving shear interface, within the tile assembly.
Waterproofing
Vapor Management
The free space on the underside of
Support/Load Distribution
When placed on a solid foundation, columns or pillars can support tremendous loads. The same physical principle applies to
CONTENTS
WOOD
CONCRETE
GYPSUM
WATERPROOFING
MOVEMENT JOINTS
WOOD UNDERLAYMENT
INSTALLATION
TESTING & CERTIFICATIONS
208 V APPLICATIONS
NATURAL STONE
PRODUCT & ORDERING INFO
HEATING CABLE TESTS LOG
WARRANTY
4 Floors, Interior ??? 16, 19.2, &
6Floors, Interior ??? Natural Stone Tile
7Floors, Interior ??? Existing Vinyl
7Floors, Interior ??? Structural Plank Subfloor
8Floors, Interior ??? Ceramic or Stone Tile
9Floors, Interior ??? Ceramic or Stone Tile
10Floors, Interior ??? Ceramic or Stone Tile
11Placement guidelines and descriptions
14Installation guidelines
15Installation instructions
21Discussion of
22Products evaluation
24Solution to improve floor warming response time
25Discussion of heating cables in 208 V applications
26Discussion of natural stone and
27
30
31
Heating cables must be installed by a qualified person in accordance with this handbook and with the National Electric Code (USA) or Canadian Electric Code Part I (CAN) as applicable. All electrical connections must be made by a qualified electrician, according to the electrical and building codes effective in your region.
WOOD
Every substrate presents unique challenges
All wood materials, including OSB, plywood, and framing members, are subject to expansion, contraction, bending, and deflection as a result of changes in moisture content and loading. Further, these deformations fluctuate over the life of the building structure.
Since wood structures are sensitive to moisture,
Wood continually absorbs and releases moisture. The free space beneath the
Since
By addressing all of the challenges associated with today???s fast, lightweight construction methods,
Ceramic or porcelain tile
Floors, Interior - Ceramic or Porcelain Tile
16" (406 mm) o.c. joist spacing, single layer OSB or plywood subfloor
Unmodified
or
Latex p.c. mortar
Single layer of plywood or OSB
Joists,
Areas of Application
over any even and structurally sound OSB or plywood subfloor with 16" (406 mm) o.c. joist spacing
interior dry or wet areas
Limitations
minimum 2" x 2" (50 mm x 50 mm) tile
for natural stone, see detail
Requirements
maximum spacing of joists,
minimum subfloor thickness ??? 19/32", 5/8" nom. (16 mm)
Substrate Preparation
verify that subfloor panels are properly fastened to framing members.
any leveling of the subfloor must be done prior to installing
Movement Joints
Setting and Grouting Materials
latex portland cement (p.c.) mortar ??? ANSI A118.11
unmodified
Setting and Grouting Specifications
tile ??? ANSI A108.5
grout ??? ANSI A108.6, A108.9, A108.10
Other Considerations
tightly butted and/or tented plywood or OSB seams must be addressed prior to installing
vapor barrier on crawl space floors according to regional building codes.
where a waterproof floor is required, all
4 WOOD ??? Floors, Interior - Ceramic or Porcelain Tile
Ceramic or porcelain tile
19.2" (488 mm) o.c. joist spacing, single layer OSB or plywood subfloor
Unmodified
or
Latex p.c. mortar
Single layer of plywood or OSB
Joists,
Areas of Application
over any even and structurally sound OSB or plywood subfloor with 19.2" (488 mm) o.c. joist spacing
interior dry or wet areas
Limitations
minimum 2" x 2" (50 mm x 50 mm) tile
for natural stone, see detail
Requirements
maximum spacing of joists,
minimum subfloor thickness ??? 23/32", 3/4" nom. (19 mm)
Substrate Preparation
verify that subfloor panels are properly fastened to framing members.
any leveling of the subfloor must be done prior to installing
Movement Joints
Setting and Grouting Materials
latex portland cement (p.c.) mortar ??? ANSI A118.11
unmodified
Setting and Grouting Specifications
tile ??? ANSI A108.5
grout ??? ANSI A108.6, A108.9, A108.10
Other Considerations
tightly butted and/or tented plywood or OSB seams must be addressed prior to installing
vapor barrier on crawl space floors according to regional building codes.
where a waterproof floor is required, all
Ceramic or porcelain tile Unmodified
24" (610 mm) o.c. joist spacing, double layer OSB or plywood subfloor
or
Latex p.c. mortar
Double layer of plywood or OSB
Areas of Application
over any even and structurally sound double layer OSB or plywood floor
interior dry or wet areas
Limitations
minimum 2" x 2" (50 mm x 50 mm) tile
Requirements
maximum spacing of joists,
double layer wood floor consisting of:
???minimum subfloor thickness ??? 23/32", 3/4" nom. (19 mm)
???minimum underlayment thickness ??? 11/32", 3/8" nom. (10 mm)
Substrate preparation
verify that subfloor panels are properly fastened to framing members.
underlayment ??? minimum 11/32", 3/8" nom. (10
any leveling of the subfloor must be done prior to installing
Movement Joints
Setting and Grouting Materials
latex portland cement (p.c.) mortar ??? ANSI A118.11
unmodified
Setting and Grouting Specifications
tile ??? ANSI A108.5
grout ??? ANSI A108.6, A108.9, A108.10
Other Considerations
tightly butted and/or tented plywood or OSB seams must be addressed prior to installing
vapor barrier on crawl space floors according to regional building codes.
where a waterproof floor is required, all
WOOD ??? Floors, Interior - Ceramic or Porcelain Tile 5
Floors, Interior - Natural Stone Tile
Double layer of OSB or Plywood subfloor
Natural stone tile Unmodified
or
Latex p.c. mortar
Double layer of plywood or OSB
Joists,
Areas of Application
over any even and structurally sound double layer OSB or plywood floor
interior dry or wet areas
Limitations
requires double layer wood floor regardless of joist spacing
minimum 2" x 2" (50 mm x 50 mm) tile
Requirements
maximum spacing of joists,
double layer wood floor consisting of:
???minimum subfloor thickness ??? 23/32", 3/4" nom. (19 mm)
???minimum underlayment thickness ??? 11/32", 3/8" nom. (10 mm)
Substrate Preparation
verify that subfloor panels are properly fastened to framing members.
underlayment ??? minimum 11/32", 3/8" nom. (10
any leveling of the subfloor must be done prior to installing
Movement Joints
Setting and Grouting Materials
latex portland cement (p.c.) mortar ??? ANSI A118.11
unmodified
Setting and Grouting Specifications
tile ??? ANSI A108.5
grout ??? ANSI A108.6, A108.9, A108.10
Other Considerations
certain
tightly butted and/or tented plywood or OSB seams must be addressed prior to installing
vapor barrier on crawl space floors according to regional building codes.
where a waterproof floor is required, all
6 WOOD ??? Floors, Interior
Floors, Interior - Existing Vinyl Floors
Tile or wood base
Ceramic, porcelain or stone tile
RONDEC
Unmodified
or
Existing vinyl Plywood or OSB
Joists,
Areas of Application
over any even and structurally sound substrate with existing vinyl flooring
interior dry or wet areas
Limitations
minimum 2" x 2" (50 mm x 50 mm) tile
cushioned vinyl unacceptable
perimeter bonded vinyl flooring unacceptable multiple layers of vinyl unacceptable
Requirements
for wood substrates, subfloor/underlayment configuration according to detail
Substrate Preparation
ensure that the structure beneath the vinyl is sound and adequate
ensure that vinyl is well adhered
remove any wax and clean vinyl
for wood substrates, nail off floor with ring shank flooring nails every 4" (102 mm) o.c. ??? fasteners must pass through entire thickness of assembly with minimal penetration into joists
any leveling of the subfloor must be done prior to installing
Movement Joints
Setting and Grouting Materials
unmodified
Setting and Grouting Specifications
tile ??? ANSI A108.5
grout ??? ANSI A108.6, A108.9, A108.10
Other Considerations
seaming
vapor barrier on crawl space floors according to regional building codes.
certain
Floors, Interior - Structural Plank Subfloor
Ceramic, porcelain or stone tile
Unmodified
or
Latex p.c. mortar
Plywood or OSB underlayment
Structural plank subfloor
Joists
Areas of Application
over structural plank subfloors interior dry or wet areas
Limitations
minimum 2" x 2" (50 mm x 50 mm) tile
Requirements
maximum spacing of joists is 24" (610 mm) o.c. double layer wood floor consisting of:
???minimum structural plank subfloor thickness ??? 3/4" (19 mm)
???minimum underlayment thickness ??? 15/32", 1/2" nom. (13 mm)
Substrate Preparation
verify that subfloor planks are properly fastened to framing members.
underlayment ??? minimum 15/32", 1/2" nom. (13
any leveling of the subfloor must be done prior to installing
Movement Joints
Setting and Grouting Materials
latex portland cement (p.c.) mortar ??? ANSI A118.11
unmodified
Setting and Grouting Specifications
tile ??? ANSI A108.5
grout ??? ANSI A108.6, A108.9, A108.10
Other Considerations
vapor barrier on crawl space floors according to regional building codes.
where a waterproof floor is required, all
certain
WOOD ??? Floors, Interior 7
CONCRETE
Every substrate presents unique challenges
There are various challenges associated with the installation of hard surface coverings on concrete substrates.To begin, the coefficient of thermal expansion of concrete is close to twice that of ceramic tile. Additionally, tile contractors are often expected to install tile over young concrete (concrete cured less than 28 days). However, rigid surface coverings installed over young concrete are susceptible to damage as a result of shrinkage during curing.
The configuration of the
Since
By addressing all of the challenges associated with today???s fast construction methods,
Floors, Interior - Ceramic or Stone Tile
Ceramic, porcelain or stone tile
Unmodified
or
Unmodified
Concrete
Concrete subfloor
Areas of Application
over any structurally sound and even concrete subfloor
young concrete (concrete cured less than 28 days)
on or below grade concrete subject to moisture migration
Limitations
minimum 2" x 2" (50 mm x 50 mm) tile
concrete slabs subject to moisture migration must have all seams in
any cracks in concrete subfloor must exhibit
Requirements
slab to be structurally sound
slab to be free of waxy or oily films and curing compounds (when present, mechanical scarifying is necessary)
the installation of
slab to be free of standing water
Substrate Preparation
any leveling of the subfloor must be done prior to installing
Movement Joints
Setting and Grouting Materials
unmodified
Setting and Grouting Specifications
tile ??? ANSI A108.5
grout ??? ANSI A108.6, A108.9, A108.10
Other Considerations
where a waterproof floor is required, all
certain
GYPSUM
Every substrate presents unique challenges
Bonding ceramic or stone tiles directly to gypsum concrete substrates is generally considered questionable or not recommended. The challenges associated with
The configuration of the
Since
By addressing all of the challenges associated with today???s fast, lightweight construction methods,
Floors, Interior - Ceramic or Stone Tile
Ceramic, porcelain or stone tile
Unmodified
or
Unmodified
Gypsum concrete
Gypsum concrete
Areas of Application
over gypsum concrete underlayment placed over structurally sound wood or concrete subfloors
interior dry or wet areas
Limitations
minimum 2" x 2" (50 mm x 50 mm) tile
Requirements
for wood substrates, subfloor/underlayment configuration according to detail
where radiant heat tubes are laid over the subfloor, gypsum poured to a height that is 3/4" (19 mm) above the tops of the tubes is required before installing
residual moisture in gypsum screed, 2.0% (percentage by volume) or less before installing
Substrate preparation
gypsum ??? follow manufacturer???s directions
Movement Joints
accordance with industry standards and norms; see page 11 of this Handbook, TCNA EJ171, and TTMAC 301 MJ.
Setting and Grouting Materials
unmodified
Installation Specifications
gypsum ??? follow manufacturer???s directions
tile ??? ANSI A108.5
grout ??? ANSI A108.6, A108.9, A108.10
Other Considerations
since
where a waterproof floor is required, all
certain
vapor barrier on crawl space floors according to regional building codes.
GYPSUM ??? Floors, Interior - Ceramic or Stone Tile 9
WATERPROOFING
Every substrate presents unique challenges
Today???s construction methods, which include the use of lightweight,
Typical areas that require waterproofing include tub surrounds and showers. However, there are other commonly tiled areas that may, through unexpected circumstances, become exposed to significant amounts of water; for example, an overflowed toilet, or ruptured dishwasher, icemaker, or washing machine lines, which can result in flooding.
Waterproofing these floors can save an owner from replacing the tile assembly and substructure in the event of a leak.
Floors, Interior - Ceramic or Stone Tile
Tile or wood base
Ceramic, porcelain or stone tile
RONDEC
Unmodified
or
Areas of Application
over any even and structurally sound substrate where waterproofing is desired
Limitations
minimum 2" x 2" (50 mm x 50 mm) tile
Requirements
all seams in
Other Considerations
seaming
in some applications the vertical section of the floor/wall transition will not accept a bond to unmodified
10 WATERPROOFING ??? Floors, Interior
MOVEMENT JOINTS
Every substrate presents unique challenges
DISCUSSION
Movement joints are an integral part of any tile assembly. The various components of a tile assembly (tile, mortar, substrate, etc.) have unique physical characteristics that affect their behavior. Specifically, these components will expand and contract at different rates, according to each component???s intrinsic physical properties, with changes in moisture, temperature, and loading (both dead and live loads). This differential expansion/contraction of attached components results in internal stresses. Furthermore, structures that restrain overall expansion of the tile field (walls, columns, etc.) cause stress buildup within the system. If the aforementioned movements are not accommodated through the use of movement joints in the tile field and at restraining structures, the resulting stresses can cause cracking of the grout and tile and delamination of the tile from the substrate. Thus, movement joints are an essential component of any durable tile assembly.
SOLUTIONS
Movement joints must be incorporated within the tile field, at doorsills, and at transitions to walls and other restraining structures to allow movement of the assembly and prevent stresses that can damage the system.
TECHNICAL NOTES
The Tile Council of North America (TCNA) and the Terrazzo, Tile, and Marble Association of Canada (TTMAC) provide guidelines (EJ171 and 301MJ, respectively) for the placement and construction of movement joints in and around the tile field.
Guidelines for the placement of movement joints
Applications without heating cables: 16' - 20' (4.9 m - 6.1 m) in each direction
Applications with heating cables or exposed to direct sunlight or moisture: 12' - 16' (3.7 m - 4.9 m) in each direction
Place around the perimeter of any size floor and/or against all restraining surfaces
Fields should be as square as possible. The ratio between length and width should not exceed 1:1.5.
MOVEMENT JOINTS 11
1
2 SILL SEAL BAND
4
Typical movement joint applications
Perimeter Joints
Perimeter joints are provided at the outer edges of any tile installation to accommodate movements attributable to changes in moisture, temperature, and loading. See figures 1, 2, and 3.
If
Surface Joints
Surface joints must be placed within the tiled surface regardless of substrate conditions. They provide for stress relief from movements in the tile field due to thermal and moisture expansion/contraction and loading. See figure 4.
Expansion Joints
Expansion joints permit both horizontal and vertical differential movements attributable to thermal and moisture expansion/contraction by providing a complete separation for the full depth of the slab to allow for free movement between adjoining parts of a structure or abutting surfaces. They are typically placed at columns, walls, and any other restraining surfaces. Expansion joints must be continued through the tile covering. The
Cold Joints
Cold (construction) joints occur where two successive placements of concrete meet. True cold joints bond the new concrete to the old and do not allow movement. However, it takes extra care to accomplish this, so they are usually designed to act as expansion or control/contraction joints. Cold joints are treated in the same manner as expansion joints. See above.
Control/Contraction Joints
Control/contraction joints are designed to induce controlled cracking caused by drying and chemical shrinkage at preselected locations. They are typically formed by saw cutting, tooling, or through the use of inserts.
Structural or Seismic Joints
Regarding structural and seismic expansion joints, please contact
12 MOVEMENT JOINTS
Note regarding residential applications
Due to the increased popularity of continuous tile installations (i.e., tile continuing from room to room on a given floor), movement joints have become both increasingly important and increasingly difficult to provide. For instance, consider the residential installation shown in Figure 5. It is almost certain that the homeowner will resist the idea of placing movement joints across any of the rooms shown in the figure, despite TCNA, TTMAC, and
The easiest way to accomplish this goal is to begin by providing movement joints at the perimeter of the installation. Perimeter joints are absolutely necessary and do not interrupt the tile field. The next step would be to place movement joints at the thresholds between rooms or where a tiled hallway meets a larger tiled room. These locations are relatively inconspicuous and the lines formed by the movement joints are logical in that they reflect the natural perimeter of each room. Finally, determine if any other characteristics of the floor plan invite the placement of additional movement joints. In this example, the intersection of the nook area and kitchen/family room may be a reasonable choice.
MOVEMENT JOINTS 13
WOOD UNDERLAYMENT
Plywood/OSB underlayment installation guidelines
DISCUSSION
In some applications referenced in this Handbook, adding a layer of plywood or OSB before installing
INSTALLATION GUIDE
Place underlayment panels (Exposure 1,
1.Abut all underlayment end joints at quarter points between joists.
Example: Abut underlayment panels on either side of the joist centerline at: 4" (102 mm) for 16" (406 mm) o.c. joists, 5" (127 mm) for 19.2" (488 mm) o.c. joists, or 6" (152 mm) for 24" (610 mm) o.c. joists (see figures 1 & 2).
Note: Underlayment end joints should be placed as far away from subfloor end joints as possible.
2.Underlayment to overlap edge joints of subfloor by 1/2 of the width of the subfloor panel (24" - 610 mm). At restraining surfaces, overlap may be less than 24" (610 mm) when the subfloor panel is less than 48" (1.2
3.Gap underlayment panels 1/8" (3 mm) on all ends and edges, and 1/4" (6 mm) at perimeter walls, cabinetry, or other restraining surfaces.
Figures 1 & 2 ??? Typical Subfloor/Underlayment Detail (Not to Scale)
Figure 1
Figure 2
Plywood/OSB Type and Fastener Schedule Guidelines
The following guidelines must be followed when fastening underlayment panels:
1.Use ring shank nails (no staples) or wood screws (no drywall screws).
2.Fasteners must pass through entire thickness of underlayment and subfloor panels with minimal penetration into joists (see figure 2).
FINAL WORD
As stated previously,
14 WOOD UNDERLAYMENT
INSTALLATION
Planning
For access to the
???Select
???Select
???Walls = 3" (75 mm)
???Fixed cabinets = 2" (50 mm)
???Heat sources (baseboard heaters, fireplaces, forced air heating ducts, etc.) = 8" (200 mm)
???Floor drains = 6" (150 mm)
???It is helpful to plan the location of a buffer zone, as it is not possible to predict exactly where the heating cable will end. The buffer zone is an area where floor warming is not essential and heating cable installation is not planned (e.g., behind a toilet or adjacent to a door opening). This area allows for placement of excess heating cable. Heating cables may also be installed 6" (150 mm) from the wall to create a buffer zone.
???For more information on installing
???Two
???Multiple
Preparation
??? ???The substrate must be clean, even, and load bearing. Any leveling of the subfloor must be done prior to installing
??? ???For wood substrates, verify that panels are properly fastened. Tightly butted and/or tented plywood or OSB seams must be addressed prior to installing
??? ???For vinyl substrates, ensure that the structure beneath is sound and adequate and that the vinyl is well adhered. Remove any wax and clean the surface. For vinyl over wood structures, nail off floor with ring shank flooring nails every 4" (102 mm) o.c. - fasteners must pass through entire thickness of assembly with minimal penetration into joists.
??? ???For concrete substrates, remove any waxy or oily films and curing compounds (if present) by mechanical scarification. When bonding
??? ???For gypsum substrates, residual moisture in gypsum screed must be 2.0% or less before installing
Membrane
When using the
at which the trowel is held, substrate flatness, etc. If full coverage is not achieved, remove and reapply, making sure to verify proper mortar consistency and application.
ESTIMATED
To bond
Use one 50 lb. (22.68 kg) bag of mortar per 100 ft2 (9.3 m2).
To bond the tile to the
To bond the tile to the
INSTALLATION 15
Heating Cables
Warning
???Before installing and operating this product, the user and/or installer must read, understand and follow these instructions and keep them handy for future reference. If you have a question, please contact Customer Service by phone
???If these instructions are not followed, the warranty will be considered null and void and the manufacturer deems no further responsibility for this product.
???The following instructions must be adhered to in order to avoid personal injuries or property damages, serious injuries and potentially fatal electric shocks.
???This product must be installed by a qualified person in accordance with this installation handbook and with the Canadian Electric Code Part I (Canada) or the National Electric Code (U.S.) as applicable. All electric connections must be made by a qualified electrician, according to the electrical and building codes effective in your region.
???A dedicated circuit is required for each application.
???A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) is required for each circuit. The
???NEVER install a cable designed for a 120 V power source on a 240/208 V power source.
???This cable must be grounded. Connect the heating cable ground to the ground wire from the electrical panel.
???Mark the circuit breaker in the electrical panel that is dedicated to the
???
???Very important: Never CUT or modify the heating cable in any way. This would change the cable resistance, will cause damage to the cable, and could cause cable overheating.
???Heating cables shall not be altered in the field. If the installer or the user modifies the unit, he will be held responsible for any damage resulting from this modification, and the warranty and the product certification will be void.
???The heating section of the cable must be entirely installed under the floor covering. The installation is characterized as a Type C (Embedded Floor Warming) application. In order to prevent a fire hazard, do not install it anywhere else (e.g. in a wall).
???Do not run the heating cable under a wall, from one room to another; an individual cable must not heat more than one room.
???NEVER install the heating cable under vanities, bathtub platforms, kitchen cabinets or any other fixtures or in closets. Excessive heat will build up in these confined spaces and may cause cable overheating.
???NEVER use the heating cable for any purpose other than heating a floor INSIDE a building.
???Always keep a 3 stud
???Heating cables may not touch, cross over, or overlap one another.
???Minimum spacing from walls is 3" (75 mm).
???Minimum spacing from fixed cabinets is 2" (50 mm).
???Minimum spacing from other heat sources (baseboard heaters, fireplaces, forced air heating ducts, etc.) is 8" (200 mm).
???Minimum spacing from any plumbing drain is 6" (150 mm).
???It is helpful to plan the location of a buffer zone, as it is not possible to predict where the heating cable will end. The buffer zone is an area where heating is not essential and heating cable installation is not planned (e.g., behind a toilet or adjacent to a door opening). This area allows for placement of excess heating cable. Heating cables may also be installed 6" (150 mm) from the wall to create a buffer zone.
???NEVER install the factory splice (i.e., black plastic junction between the cold lead and gray heating cable) in the wall. This will cause overheating, system failure, and could cause a fire. This splice must be installed entirely under the floor covering, as shown in the heating cable installation instructions.
???Heating cable testing is required while the heating cable is on the spool and at two subsequent steps during installation to ensure cable quality and for warranty purposes.
???If a break or damage is detected during the heating cable testing, return the cable to the original place of purchase. Do not proceed with heating cable installation into the
???NEVER energize the cable while it is on the spool. This would lead to overheating that could damage the cable and may cause a fire.
???Keep ends of heating devices and kit components dry before and during installation.
???The minimum temperature at which the cable should be installed is 32?? F (0?? C).
???Avoid folding the heating cable on itself, a radius of curvature less than 0.0625 inch (1.6 mm) could damage its sheath.
???The minimum installed bending radius of the heating cable is 0.5 inches (12.7 mm).
16 INSTALLATION
i
To avoid damaging the
Heating Cable Tests
To qualify for resolution for failure of the
???Test 1: Conductor Resistance
???Test 2: Conductor and Ground Braid Continuity
???Floor Temperature Sensor Test
(Test 3: Insulation Resistance is recommended, but not required)
To extend the term for resolution for failure of the
???Test 1: Conductor Resistance
???Test 2: Conductor and Ground Braid Continuity
???Test 3: Insulation Resistance
???Floor Temperature Sensor Test
Please refer to the Heating Cable Tests Log on page 30 of this Handbook and Warranty on page 31 of this Handbook for further information.
Test 1: Conductor resistance (required)
In order to perform the resistance test, you must set your multimeter for resistance measurement and take an ohms reading between the two power leads. If the ohms reading taken on the two power leads varies significantly (10% or more) from the value printed on the spool, it either means that the cable has been damaged, or that the measuring instrument is not set properly, or that it is simply out of calibration. The ohms measurement must be recorded in your heating cable tests log (page 30).
Test 2: Conductor and ground braid continuity (required)
The heating cable is protected by a ground braid. An electrical insulator prevents any contact between the braid and the two conductors. To make sure there is no contact between the braid and the two conductors, you must perform a continuity test. Using the continuity test (buzzer logo) function of your multimeter, test your cable between the braid and one of the two power leads. If there is no continuity (if the test is successful), the multimeter will display, depending on the instrument used, either ???OL ??? for ???over load??? or ???I??? for ???infinity???. Otherwise, if the test fails, neither ???OL ???, nor ???I??? will be displayed and a warning tone will be heard. The test result must be recorded in your heating cable tests log (page 30).
Test 3: Insulation resistance (recommended)
This test is meant to detect very small breaks throughout the cable insulation. These breaks often remain undetected during the continuity test since they are not necessarily short circuits between the conductor and the ground braid. Even though they are small, these breaks are likely to cause a current leakage to ground. Such a leakage is usually detected by the mandatory
Test the floor temperature sensors using a multimeter to verify accuracy of the sensors. Set the multimeter for resistance at 10K ?? +/- 2 (at room temperature) and take a reading between the sensor leads. The resistance will vary according to the temperature (i.e., the colder the sensor, the higher the resistance). Compare the measured values with the table of expected values and record in the heating cable tests log on page 30.
INSTALLATION 17
Installation
Check to ensure the heating cable(s) purchased match the power supply (i.e., 120 V with 120 V or 240 V with 240 V, or 240 V with 208 V). Check to ensure you are not exceeding the 15 amp limit of the thermostat. Compare the purchased cable area to the floor area to be heated. Important: The cable area purchased should be as close to the heated area as possible, without going over. The heating cable CANNOT be trimmed or shortened to fit.
It is recommended that the installation of the
1Before the heating cable is removed from the spool, conduct the first set of required tests and record values in the heating cable tests log (page 30). If a break or damage is detected during the tests, return the heating cable to the original place of purchase.
2Thread the heating cable cold lead through a conduit (where required by code) from the base of the wall to the thermostat electrical box. Floor temperature sensors may not be threaded through the same conduit as the cold lead.
3Mark where the cold/hot splice will be placed, cut the
Once the heating cable cold lead and remote sensors are threaded to the thermostat electrical box, install a metal protection plate at the base of the wall. This will help prevent any damage from fasteners (e.g., nails, screws, etc.) in the future.
structures. A wider spacing (e.g., 4 studs) will not provide sufficient power to warm the floor to the desired temperature. Exception: a
Notes:
???Make sure to leave space for inserting the floor temperature sensor(s).
???Heating cables may not touch, cross over, or overlap one another.
???Minimum spacing from:
The maximum allowable length of a single run is 10 ft (3 m); the cable must be turned or a
hot glue). Embed the sensor wire in the matting without overlapping or crossing the heating cable.
Extending the heating cable cold lead
The cold lead is made up of two 14 AWG conductors with a copper braided shield, that is used as the grounding conductor. The extension must be made with building wire that is suitable for this application and complies with applicable building and electrical codes. The cold lead itself is not made of building wire and therefore cannot pass through studs unless run through a conduit. Extension of the cold lead requires the addition of a ???code compliant??? junction box that must be accessible at all times. The maximum length for extending the cold lead is 75 ft (23 m).
Extending the floor temperature sensor
The floor temperature sensor can be extended using an 18 AWG,
18 INSTALLATION
Waterproofing
The following steps are required for waterproofing only:
Note: While the heating cable is protected by the
1At the joints, fill the matting with unmodified
2 Comb additional unmodified
3Apply 5" (127
4At all wall junctions, apply
Note:
INSTALLATION 19
Tiles
Note: While the heating cable is protected by the
Note: Coverage may vary with mortar consistency, angle at which the trowel is held, substrate flatness, etc. If full coverage is not achieved, remove and reapply, making sure to verify proper mortar consistency and application. For
ESTIMATED
To bond
Use one 50 lb. (22.68 kg) bag of mortar per 100 ft2 (9.3 m2).
To bond the tile to the
Use one 50 lb (22.68 kg) bag of mortar per 40 - 50 ft2 (3.7 - 4.6 m2).
To bond the tile to the
Use one 50 lb (22.68 kg) bag of mortar per 30 - 40 ft2 (2.8 - 3.7 m2).
4Once the tile installation is complete, retest the heating cable and record values in the heating cable tests log (page 30).
Allow the assembly to cure for 7 days after grouting before putting the floor warming into service.
Operating Tips
???Do not place furniture or mats over the floor temperature sensor. They can act as insulation and raise the floor temperature reading at the thermostat. This may cause the heating to turn off before the remainder of the floor reaches the desired temperature.
???Area rugs are not recommended over the
???Futons, mattresses,
20 INSTALLATION
Discussion of
QUESTION: Can ceramic tile, including porcelain tile, be set on
ANSWER: YES. In fact, we recommend it. Here???s why:
Portland
QUESTION: Can ceramic tile, including porcelain tile, be set on
ANSWER: We DON'T recommend it. Here???s why:
ADDITIONAL NOTES
Over 25 years of field experience and testing by the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) support the efficacy of using unmodified
Remember, the type of mortar used to apply
TESTING & CERTIFICATIONS
Product Evaluation
Uncoupling and Support/Load Distribution
The method used to establish the overall performance of a tile assembly under loading is the ASTM C627 ???Standard Test Method for Evaluating Ceramic Floor Tile Installation Systems Using the Robinson Type Floor Tester.??? The assembly is tested in cycles using a loaded, revolving carriage. Load, wheel hardness, and number of revolutions vary with each cycle. Once a specified level of damage is exceeded, the test is stopped. The TCNA Handbook for Ceramic, Glass, and Stone Tile Installation assigns performance levels to an assembly based on the number of cycles successfully completed. The ratings include residential, light, moderate, heavy, and extra heavy, in order of improving performance.
Assembly Notes:
1.All plywood and OSB subfloors were 23/32" (3/4" nom.)
2.Modified
3.Unmodified
4.Unmodified
5.High Performance Cement Grout (ANSI A118.7)
The test results above demonstrate that
Waterproofing
Vapor Management
The free space under the
*Using the water method at 73??F (23??C) and 50% RH
The result is the
22 TESTING & CERTIFICATIONS
Certifications
Heating cables
The
???
???UL 1673 "Electric Space Heating Cables" for installation in poured masonry floors within enclosed structures.
???ANSI/IEEE
Thermostat
The
???Certified to CSA C22.2 No.
???Listed to UL 873
18th, 2006.
The
???UL
???UL
???CSA
???CSA
???UL 943 4th ed.
???CSA C22.2 No.
Certifications and listings may be accessed Membranevia our website at www.schluter.com
???
???
???U.S. Pat. No. 8,950,141, and U.S. DES. PAT. No. D706459 Canada D Schluter Systems L.P. and other patents pending
???
???
???Patent pending
Green Building
???LEED v4, IEQ Credit:
???NAHB National Green Building Standard (ICC 700), 901.7, 901.8: Pollutant Source Control -
???Green Globes for New Construction 2014 (v1.3), 3.7.1: Volatile Organic Compounds
???International Green Construction Code (IgCC), 806.4, 806.5: Flooring, Wall Systems
???Standard for the Design of High Performance Green Buildings (ASHRAE 189.1), 8.4.2.3, 8.4.2.6: Floor Covering Materials, Wall Systems
???California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen), 4.504.2 (Res), 5.504.4
???CHPS, EQ2.2:
TESTING & CERTIFICATIONS 23
Solution to improve floor warming response time
The challenge of concrete substrates
Concrete substrates can absorb enough heat energy to significantly increase the time it takes for floors to warm up, particularly when there is no insulation layer below the concrete. In some cases, floors may never reach the desired temperature. There are solutions to address this challenge, such as installing the heating cables at closer spacing for increased energy output or installing a thermal break prior to heating cable installation to reduce heat loss into the substrate. However, both of these solutions increase material and labor costs.
A
Thermal resistance
The
Floor warming performance
In laboratory testing,
Wood substrates act as insulators and typically do not pose the same challenges as concrete substrates. In the same laboratory testing,
Temperature (??F)
Figure 1 -
85.0
Time (minutes)
Temperature (??F)
Figure 2 -
93.0
Time (minutes)
Results above are based upon laboratory testing. Actual results may vary depending on various factors, including concrete substrate thickness, concrete substrate temperature, room temperature, heat losses, etc.
24
208 V APPLICATIONS
Discussion of
208 V Applications
The heating cable will cover 33% less area when spaced at 2 studs compared to 3 studs. Therefore, a longer heating cable must be selected to cover a given area in these applications. Coverage for each 240 V heating cable spaced at 2 studs can be found in the table below.
We recommend consulting with a qualified electrician for design and installation of your
208 V APPLICATIONS 25
NATURAL STONE
Discussion of natural stone and
Natural stone is a product of nature with a wide variety of colors, patterns, and textures that come together to distinguish it as one of the premiere surface coverings available on the market. Some of stone???s characteristics, which add to its beauty and uniqueness, are veins, fissures, starts, and
It is clear from the figure that the minimum recorded flexural strengths of these dimension stones tend to be significantly less than those of the ceramic tiles. In some cases, the differences are dramatic. For example, the minimum recorded flexural strength of the weakest travertine sample (337 psi) was only 14% of the minimum flexural strength of the weakest ceramic sample (2438 psi). In other words, the weakest ceramic sample was more than 7 times as strong as the weakest travertine sample. As another example, the minimum recorded flexural strength of the weakest porcelain sample is more than 12 times as strong as the minimum recorded flexural strength of the weakest travertine sample.
Q.Why does
A.There are three principle reasons: 1) As illustrated above, the fact that most stone products have a minimum flexural strength that is substantially lower than what is typical for ceramic tile; 2) Stones are products of nature and complex heterogeneous materials with naturally occurring regions of discontinuity, such as veins and fissures. Such features can be weaker than the surrounding stone fabric and act as ???stress risers,??? concentrating bending stresses within the region of discontinuity; and 3) When wood floor assemblies are subjected to forces such as loading ??? both live and dead loads ??? they produce flexural stresses in the surface covering which can cause weak and brittle materials to break or crack.
Engineering mechanics as well as field observations show that the location of maximum flexural stresses in the floor assembly is directly over the floor joists and at seams in the subfloor panels. Therefore, we recommend
26 NATURAL STONE
PRODUCT & ORDERING INFO
The ordering information for the
Uncoupling and waterproofing membrane (1/4" ??? 5.5 mm)
U.S. Pat. No. 8,950,141, and U.S. DES. PAT. No. D706459
Canada D Schluter Systems L.P. and other patents pending
Uncoupling and waterproofing membrane with thermal break (5/16" - 8 mm)
Patent pending
Each heating cable includes a floor temperature sensor compatible with the
PRODUCT & ORDERING INFO 27
The
Repair kit for
Digital thermostat with remote floor temperature sensor
Programmable
Power module
Digital thermostat with remote floor temperature sensor
The
Kit containing all necessary components
Note: 1 mil = 1
28 PRODUCT & ORDERING INFO
Note: 1 mil = 1
Sealing and bonding compound
*Color Codes
BW G
Used to embed DITRA membranes in the bond coat during membrane installation. The lightweight
Used to embed uncoupling membranes in the bond coat
PRODUCT & ORDERING INFO 29
HEATING CABLE TESTS LOG
Validation for warranty coverage
Each heating cable is subject to factory quality control. However, damage to the cables may happen after the product leaves the factory. In order to ensure that the cable quality remains unchanged throughout the installation process and for warranty purposes, tests must be conducted while the cable is still on the spool and during two specific subsequent steps. Measurements must be recorded in the table below and compared to initial measurements taken when the cable was on the spool in order to enable you to detect any changes related to the electrical property of the cable. Any
The homeowner/end user must submit a copy of the completed heating cable tests log, including ???Test 1: Conductor Resistance,??? ???Test 2: Conductor and Ground Braid Continuity,??? and ???Floor Temperature Sensors Test???, with the warranty registration card within 14 days of installing the product to qualify for resolution for failure of the
Completion of warranty registration qualifies customers for the system warranty, in which
Failure to complete this warranty registration will result in a
Homeowner/end user must retain this heating cable tests log for warranty purposes.
Heating Cable Tests Log
Test 1: Conductor Resistance Test
Readings must fall within 10% of the factory value printed on the silver heating cable identification tag.
Test 2: Conductor and Ground Braid Continuity Test
Infinity (I) or
Overload (OL)
Test 3: Insulation Resistance Test
* Allow the assembly to cure for 7 days after grouting before putting the floor warming into service. **1 Gigaohms = 1 G ohms = 1000 M ohms = 1000 Mega ohms
30 HEATING CABLE TESTS LOG
WARRANTY
COVERAGE AND CONDITIONS: Subject to the conditions and limitations as stated hereinafter,
RESOLUTION: Upon return of the registration card with the heating cable logs*** and compliance with all the aforementioned conditions, if the Products fail to meet this warranty, then the owner???s exclusive remedy and the sole obligation of
In the event that the registration card and or heating cable tests log is not completed and returned then the
DISCLAIMER: THERE ARE NO WARRANTIES BEYOND THIS EXPRESSED WARRANTY AS STATED ABOVE. ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, REPRESENTATIONS
OR CONDITIONS, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, ARE DISCLAIMED AND EXCLUDED, INCLUDING WARRANTIES, REPRESENTATIONS OR CONDITIONS OF
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARISING BY STATUTE OR OTHERWISE BY LAW OR FROM A COURSE OF DEALING OR
USAGE OF TRADE.
INCIDENTAL, PUNITIVE, EXEMPLARY, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, ARISING OUT OF OR OTHERWISE CONNECTED TO FAILURE OF THE PRODUCTS OR
FLOORING SYSTEM OF WHICH THEY ARE PART, NOR MISUSE OF THE PRODUCTS OR FLOORING SYSTEM, REGARDLESS OF ANY STRICT LIABILITY, ACTIVE OR
PASSIVE NEGLIGENCE OF SCHLUTER SYSTEMS, AND REGARDLESS OF THE LEGAL THEORY (CONTRACT OR TORT OR
NOR FROM ACTS OF WAR, TERRORISM, OVERVOLTAGE, FAULTY AND NEGLIGENT PENETRATION OF THE SYSTEM, FIRES, EXPLOSIONS, ACTS OF GOD,
INTENTIONAL ACTS OF DESTRUCTION OR ANY LOSSES DUE TO STRUCTURAL FAILURE OR OTHER CAUSES UNRELATED TO THE PRODUCTS OR DELAYS,
OR ANY OTHER INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. THIS WARRANTY IS GIVEN IN LIEU OF ANY OTHER WARRANTY EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED. THE
REMEDIES CONTAINED HEREIN ARE THE ONLY REMEDIES AVAILABLE FOR BREACH OF THIS WARRANTY. THIS LIMITED WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC
LEGAL RIGHTS; SOME STATES AND PROVINCES DO NOT ALLOW DISCLAIMERS OR OTHER RESTRICTIONS OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES, SO SOME OF THE ABOVE
DISCLAIMERS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
TRANSFERABILITY: This Limited Warranty extends ONLY to the original end user (defined as original intended owner and user of the property/unit in which the installation is incorporated - herein referred to as ???Owner???) and is not transferable or assignable, unless approved in writing by the Technical Director or an Officer of
MODIFICATIONS TO WARRANTY: No changes or modification of any terms or conditions of this warranty are allowed unless authorized by written agreement and signed by the Technical Director or an Officer of
EFFECTIVE DATE: This warranty shall supersede and replace any and all prior oral or written warranties, agreements, or other such representations made by or on behalf of
CLAIMS ON THIS LIMITED WARRANTY: To make a claim under this Limited Warranty, the Owner must provide
*For the purpose of this warranty Schluter Systems, L.P. shall provide the warranty for end users located in the United States, and Schluter Systems (Canada) Inc. shall provide the warranty for end users located in Canada. This warranty is limited to sales of the Products made in and intended for use in the United States and Canada.
***To qualify for resolution for failure of the
WARRANTY 31
Schluter Systems L.P. ??? 194 Pleasant Ridge Road, Plattsburgh, NY
www.schluter.com
55450802/2016?? 2016 Schluter Systems L.P.