DIY Related: Cracked Screed

[bhappy]

Hi All

First time post although I have found this site very informative as a guest in the past.

Looking some advice, I am planning to tile 20sq m with 450mm x 450mm ceramic tiles. The floor is 50mm - 60mm sand & cement screed on top of DPM, 1" insulation on top of concrete subfloor, the floor has been down about 20 yrs and is pretty level. However the screed has cracked along the runs for the pipes for the radiators (the screed was thinner over the pipe work) and when I walk along the cracks I can hear creaking.

The local tile merchant has supplied me with Dunlop large format adhesive.

Question are what should I do about the cracks? and what size trowel should I use?

[timeless john]

If you are sure they are not structural cracks then use a decoupling membrane over the whole floor.
For fixing the floor tiles you'll need a 10mm trowel and depending on the back of the tiles you may find 'flat backing' gives you the 100% coverage required.
to the Tilers Forum and enjoy your project.
Don't forget to ask plenty of questions prior to starting.
Good Luck.

[Dave]

Hello and welcome, i agree with John.. deffo use an uncoupling membrane..

[whitebeam]

Hi and welcome

[bhappy]

Thanks All,
Looks like I need to go back to the client (i.e. the missus) for more money then.

Which Membrane would you recommend, I know the local merchant stocks the Ditra Brand.

[Dave]

Ditra is pricey.. Dural CI is my preferred make..

[Scott]

The matt will save you money in the long run