In applications where Ecowarm RadiantBoard will be installed over a wooden subfloor, the following specific precautions and instructions must be followed to comply with “General Ecowarm Installation Requirements For All Flooring Over Wood Subfloor.”
When installing masonry, tile, and stone, backer board shall be used over Ecowarm RadiantBoard. First, thin set and screw the backer board to the Ecowarm panels, be sure to use thinsets compatible with PEX Pipe. The installation on top of backer board shall then be used following TCA Guidelines.
Next, a conventional mortar bed of Crack isolation membrane and mortar should be employed. In the kitchen, bath, laundry or any other area where water may be present, a water sealant (i.e. Nobleseal) should be used. Maintain 2” minimum tubing clearance when screwing backer board down. Refer to the complete installation manual for further instructions on the installation of the Ecowarm™ RadiantBoard system. See additional Notes and Cautions below.
Traditional mortar set tile or stone in areas unlikely to be subject to moisture:
Traditional mortar set tile or stone in areas likely to be subject to moisture should use waterproof isolation membranes:
Installers Caution
Do not omit the backer board layer. Do not thin set directly to Ecowarm panels, the aluminum will not provide a good bond. Do not install crack isolation membranes directly to Ecowarm, they will not provide a good bond and many of them use materials that are incompatible for contact with PEX pipe.
Notes On Sealing
The aluminum layer on the top of each Ecowarm is highly water-resistant. Thus a significant degree of moisture protection can be given to the board simply by using silicone sealant as a caulk between the boards. Properly applied, this will profoundly reduce the likelihood of water transmission into the boards. This is not a substitute for the recommended installation methods in wet areas.
Getting ready to start a new radiant floor project? Get a FREE Ecowarm quote.
