Use and Care Manual

FLOOR PROFILES
3
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 environ-
ments. 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, 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
FLOOR PROFILES
3
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.