Use and Care Guide

WALL AND COUNTERTOP PROFILES
4
2.8 Schluter
®
-RONDEC-STEP is a finishing
and edging profile for ceramic tile and dimension
stone installations on countertops and stairs.
The profile features a trapezoid-perforated
anchoring leg, which is secured in the mortar
bond coat beneath the tile. The top of the profile
features a symmetrically rounded edge with 1/4"
(6 mm) radius, which matches the RONDEC
profile, while the vertical leg of the profile hides the
exposed edge of the sub-assembly. In addition,
the profile effectively protects tiles in the edge
area from mechanical and impact stresses. The
integrated joint spacer establishes a defined
joint cavity between the tile and the profile.
RONDEC-STEP is suitable for residential
applications, e.g., stairs not exposed
to heavy traffic, and countertops.
RONDEC-STEP is available in two different
vertical leg lengths, 1-1/2" (39 mm) and 2-1/4"
(57 mm), to cover the edge of the sub-
assembly. The profile is available in anodized
aluminum with various finishes to allow for
decorative design and interesting accents.
Matching corners for the RONDEC-STEP are
available.
2.9 Schluter
®
-RONDEC-CT is a double-rail
edging profile for countertops to be fitted with
a ceramic or dimension stone tile covering.
The profile features a trapezoid- perforated
anchoring leg that is secured in the mortar
bond coat beneath the tile, while the face of
the profile features a recessed section with
dovetailed grooves to which field or accent tile
is bonded. The top and bottom edges of the
profile are symmetrically rounded (1/4" - 6 mm
radius) and match the RONDEC profile. The
1-1/2" (39 mm) vertical leg of the profile hides
the exposed edge of the sub-assembly. The
integrated joint spacer establishes a defined
joint cavity between the tile and the profile. The
profile is available in anodized aluminum and
textured color-coated aluminum with various
surface finishes to allow for decorative design
and interesting accents. Matching inside and
outside corners are available.
Wall Access Panel System
11.1 Schluter
®
-REMA is the ideal system
for creating concealed access panels in
tiled wall coverings. The REMA assembly
kit consists of four aluminum brackets with
molded casings containing magnets that are
clamped to lateral, movable guide shoes,
and four ferro-magnetic metal counterplates.
REMA’s installation is independent of tile size
and thickness and enables exact matching
of the access panel to the overall joint
design. Thus, panels that access electrical or
plumbing components do not impair the visual
appearance of the tile covering.
Material Properties and
Areas of Application
Schluter
®
wall and countertop profiles are
resistant to most chemicals encountered in
tiled environments. In special cases, the
suitability of a proposed type of material 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.
Solid brass sustains high levels of mechanical
stress; for example, as edge protection for
outside wall corners or edges of surface
coverings. Brass is resistant to most chemicals
used 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.
Chrome-plated brass is especially suited for
wall corners and finishing applications. It is
ideal for matching chrome fixtures. Surface
areas must be protected against abrasion or
scratching.
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.
Color-coated aluminum and textured
color-coated aluminum are pretreated
(chromated) aluminum that is color-coated
with a polyurethane powder coat. The coating
is color-stable, UV-resistant, and suitable
for exterior use. Protect the profile against
abrasion or scratching.
PVC profiles are made of pre-colored, rigid PVC
that resists bending or scratching. The material
is UV-resistant, though not permanently color-
stable, in exterior applications. PVC profiles are
not suited for corners or transitions subjected
to heavy mechanical stresses (e.g., at step
edges or floor transitions).
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.
Plastic profiles may be cut using Schluter
®
-
SNIPS or similar. It is important to make sure
the blade is sharp to ensure a clean cut.
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.