Use and Care Manual

4
WALL AND COUNTERTOP PROFILES
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.
Installation
JOLLY, QUADEC, RONDEC, DECO-DE,
DIADEC, FINEC, INDEC, DECO-SG,
ECK-E, RONDEC-DB, SCHIENE-STEP,
RONDEC-STEP, and RONDEC-CT
1. Select the profile according to the tile
thickness and format. Note: RONDEC-
DB can be used with tiles 1/4" - 1/2"
(6 - 12.5 mm).
2. Using a notched trowel, apply thin-set mortar
to the area where the profile is to be placed.
If JOLLY, QUADEC, RONDEC, RONDEC-DB,
DECO-DE, FINEC, or DIADEC is to be used
as edging for an outside wall corner, finish tiling
one wall first; then trowel thin-set mortar over
the corner area of the second wall.
3. Press the perforated anchoring leg of 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.