hats67
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Hello guys. I came upon and registered with this forum while doing some research on decoupling mats. I'm a general builder and paver of 30 yrs. Very chuffed to be here.
My current job is to build an upper and lower raised patio terrace of approx 50m2. All block work done and backfilled with hardcore, compacted 803 and upper tier topped with 50mm concrete cap. On top of this I will put a 50 -75mm sand cement screed to give me my falls and then let cure for 6 weeks before tiling using porcelain 600 x 400 x 8mm tiles. I would have preferred to have used 20mm porcelain slabs from the start but its the customers' preference.
Not being a tiler, I was unaware of the need for a decoupling mat and didn't price for one.! I understand the rational behind one as, as the base is made up ground and will probably settle over time.
My first question is this. Could I use chicken wire/mesh or fibres/SBR in my screed as an alternative to prevent cracking? The customer has bought the tiles and the recommended adhesive from retailer is Ultra tile proflex Spes.
My second question is regarding movement joints. Obviously will put them in where tiles abut any vertical plane and also intend to install one every 3-4 m. The customer wants a brick bond pattern so instead of cutting through the pattern for the joints could I backfill with silicone following the brick bond pattern so the joints would be stepped?
Many thanks in advance.
