Use and Care Guide

3
FLOOR PROFILES
Material Properties and
Areas of Application
Schluter edge-protection and transition profiles
are resistant to most chemicals encountered
in tiled environments. In special cases,
the suitability of a proposed type of profile
must be verified based on the anticipated
chemical, mechanical, and/or other stresses.
Exceptions and special considerations are
listed below:
Stainless steel profiles are roll-formed,
resulting in a slightly different contour from those
made of extruded brass or aluminum. Stainless
steel can sustain high mechanical stresses
and is particularly well suited for applications
requiring resistance against chemicals and
acids; for example in the food industry,
breweries, dairies, commercial kitchens, and
hospitals, as well as in residential applications.
Typically, the profiles are formed using
stainless steel 304 (1.4301 = V2A). For more
severe chemical exposure, such as de-icing
salts and chemicals used in swimming pools,
we recommend the use of stainless steel
316 L (1.4404 = V4A), which offers even
higher corrosion resistance than the 304.
Even stainless steel cannot withstand all
chemical exposures, such as hydrochloric
acid, hydrofluoric acid or certain chlorine,
chloride, and brine concentrations.
Chrome-plated solid brass is ideal for
matching chrome fixtures. Surfaces must be
protected against abrasion or scratching.
Solid brass can sustain high mechanical
stresses, as well as most chemicals
commonly encountered in tiled environments.
Solid brass that is exposed to air will oxidize,
resulting in a natural patina. If exposed to
moisture or aggressive substances, heavy
oxidation and spotting may occur.
Aluminum profiles must be tested to verify their
suitability if chemical stresses are anticipated.
Cementitious materials, in conjunction with
moisture, become alkaline. Since aluminum
is sensitive to alkaline substances, exposure
to the alkali (depending on the concentration
and duration of exposure) may result in
corrosion (aluminum hydroxide formation).
Therefore, it is important to remove mortar
or grout residue from visible surfaces.
In addition, ensure that the profile is solidly
embedded in the setting material and that all
cavities are filled to prevent the collection of
alkaline water.
Anodized aluminum profiles feature
an anodized layer that retains a uniform
appearance during normal use, but is not
color-stable in exterior applications. The
surface is susceptible to scratching and
wear and may be damaged by grout or
setting material. Therefore, these materials
must be removed immediately. Otherwise, the
description regarding aluminum applies.
Cutting Profiles
Observe all safety instructions and standards
as directed by the cutting tool manufacturer,
including protective eyewear, hearing
protection, and gloves.
Always measure carefully and dry fit the
profiles, corners, and connectors to ensure
proper fit and alignment prior to setting tile.
Aluminum profiles may be cut using any of
the following options:
• Hacksaw with a bimetal blade and the
highest teeth per inch (TPI) available.
• Variable-Speed Angle Grinder set to the
lowest speed using the Schluter
®
-PROCUT-
TSM cutting wheel.
• Chop saw or Miter Saw with a non-
ferrous blade.
Regardless of the cutting tool used, remove
any burrs from the cut end of the profile with
a file or similar before installation.
Stainless steel profiles may be cut using any
of the following options:
• Variable-Speed Angle Grinder set to the
lowest speed using the Schluter
®
-PROCUT-
TSM cutting wheel.
• Band Saw with a metal cutting blade.
Regardless of the cutting tool used, remove
any burrs from the cut end of the profile with
a file or similar before installation.
Installation
SCHIENE, JOLLY, DECO, RENO-TK,
RENO-U, RENO-RAMP, and RENO-V
1. Select the profile according to tile thickness
and format.
Note: When using Schluter
®
uncoupling
membranes with RENO-U and RENO-
RAMP profiles, factor in the thickness of
the membrane over the anchoring leg
when selecting the profile height.
2. Using a notched trowel, apply thin-set
mortar to the area where the profile is to
be placed.
For RENO-U and RENO-RAMP, fill the
cavity beneath the sloped section of the
profile with thin-set mortar. Follow this
step when RENO-V is used in heavy-duty
applications, as well.
3. Press the perforated anchoring leg of the
profile into the mortar and align.
4. Trowel additional thin-set mortar over
the perforated anchoring leg to ensure
full coverage and support of the
tile edges.
5. Solidly embed the tiles so that the tiled
surface is flush with the top of the profile;
the profile should not be higher than the
tiled surface, but rather up to approx.
1/32" (1 mm) lower.
6. Set the tile to the integrated joint
spacer, which ensures a uniform joint
of 1/16" - 1/8" (1.5 - 3 mm). For DECO
and stainless steel profiles, leave a space
of approximately 1/16" - 1/8" (1.5 - 3
mm).
7. Fill the joint completely with grout or
setting material.
8. Remove grout or mortar residue from the
visible surface of the profile.
RENO-RAMP-K
1. Fill the cavity beneath the sloped section
of the profile with thin-set mortar.
2. Using a notched trowel, apply thin-set
mortar to the area where the profile is to
be placed.
3. Press the profile into the mortar and abut
to the adjacent floor covering. The profile
should not be higher than the adjacent
floor covering, but rather up to approx.
1/32" (1 mm) lower.
4. Fill the joint completely with grout or
setting material.
5. Work with materials and tools that will not
scratch or damage sensitive surfaces.
Setting materials must be removed
immediately.
RENO-T
1. Select the profile according to joint width,
to ensure proper support of the lateral
crosspiece.
2. The joint cavity must be at least 3/8"
(9 mm) deep and free of debris.
Substances that inhibit adhesion must be
removed from the sides of the joint.