Overview
Select finish systems compatible with cementitious substrates, consider finish weight and movement, maintain movement joints, and observe fire and service-condition limitations.
Key points
- Use adhesives suitable for cementitious substrates and the selected finish
- Do not bridge structural movement joints
- Protect perimeter and movement joints in tiled and rendered finishes
- Keep finish weight and substrate stiffness within design limits (max. tile load 60 kg/m²)
Compatible finishes
- Ceramic and porcelain tiles
- Natural stone, subject to load and adhesive requirements
- Microcement and resin systems
- Decorative render and textured exterior systems
- Compatible architectural coatings
Thermal movement
Thermasheet's XPS core is dimensionally stable in normal service, but all buildings and finishes move. Long runs, exterior applications, dark finishes and underfloor-heated areas need appropriate movement-joint design. Follow the tile, render, waterproofing and structural designer's movement-joint requirements.
Safety
- Use suitable eye, hand and respiratory protection during cutting and drilling.
- Control dust at source where practical.
- Avoid solvents or chemicals that may attack XPS.
- Store boards flat, dry and protected from excessive heat, direct sunlight and physical damage before installation.
