Blanke Permat is a high-performance uncoupling membrane designed for tile installations in both residential and commercial settings. Its unique construction combines strength, flexibility, and ease of use, making it a preferred alternative to traditional underlayment methods such as backerboard or cement board. This article provides a detailed, step-by-step guide to installing Blanke Permat based on information from official product documentation, technical specifications, and installation best practices shared in trusted industry resources.
Overview of Blanke Permat
Blanke Permat is a 1/8" thick uncoupling underlayment engineered to isolate tile from subfloor movement. This isolation helps prevent cracks and other structural failures that may result from substrate deflection, temperature changes, or moisture exposure. The product is ideal for use with porcelain, stone, and ceramic tiles and is specifically designed for interior applications over wood substrates or concrete. It is not recommended for exterior use.
Key features include:
- Material Composition:
- Top Mesh: Alkali-resistant glass fiber
- Bottom Mesh: High-density polyethylene (HDPE)
- Fabric Layer: Polypropylene fleece
- Thickness: Approximately 1/8 inch
- Weight: Approximately 2.6 ounces per square foot
- Coverage: 195 square feet per case
- Warranty: 10-year coverage for issues related to deflection and delamination
- Thickness Compatibility: Suitable for tiles measuring 2" x 2" and smaller
Blanke Permat is also noted for its self-seaming design, which eliminates the need for additional sealing at panel joints, and its high tensile strength, which makes it a strong alternative to other uncoupling systems like Schluter Ditra or Durock membranes.
Preparing the Substrate
Before installing Blanke Permat, it is essential to ensure that the substrate is in optimal condition. The following steps should be taken to prepare the surface:
Clean the Substrate:
The surface must be free of dust, debris, and any contaminants that may interfere with the adhesion of the thinset. Use a broom, vacuum, or air compressor to clean thoroughly.Dry the Surface:
The substrate must be dry to the touch. If installed over concrete, ensure there is no residual moisture. Blanke Permat is not a waterproofing membrane and must be used in conjunction with a waterproofing system if moisture is a concern.Ensure Flatness:
The substrate should be level and free of major irregularities. Minor imperfections are acceptable as long as they do not exceed the manufacturer’s tolerances. For wood substrates, joists should be spaced no more than 16" on center to minimize deflection.Check Load-Bearing Capacity:
The substrate must be structurally sound and capable of supporting the weight of the tile and underlayment. For commercial applications involving heavy traffic or point loads, Blanke Permat provides enhanced support.
Mixing and Applying Thinset
Blanke Permat is installed using thinset mortar, which acts as the bonding agent between the underlayment and the substrate. The thinset also helps secure the panels in place and ensures proper coverage of the mesh layers.
Mixing Thinset:
According to the installation guidelines, the thinset should be mixed to a slightly more liquid consistency than normal. This ensures better penetration into the mesh and improved adhesion. A 1/4" x 1/4" U-notch trowel is recommended for spreading the thinset.Applying the Thinset:
Spread the thinset evenly over the prepared substrate, ensuring full coverage. The thinset should be applied in a uniform thickness to avoid voids and ensure proper panel adhesion.Working Time:
Blanke Permat does not require extended curing times before tiling, especially when used with latex-modified thinset in porcelain tile installations. This feature significantly speeds up the installation process and reduces labor time.
Installing Blanke Permat Panels
The installation process involves laying the Blanke Permat panels over the prepared and troweled thinset. The following steps outline the correct procedure:
Lay the First Panel:
Place the first panel over the thinset, ensuring that the top mesh overhang covers the edge of the adjacent panel. This helps reinforce the joint and prevents stress points.Offset Subsequent Rows:
Each subsequent row should be offset by a minimum of 3 inches from the row above to avoid seam alignment. This staggered pattern enhances structural integrity and reduces the risk of cracking at the joints.Press Panels into Thinset:
Use a trowel or vinyl roller to press the panels into the thinset. This ensures proper adhesion and saturation of the fabric layer on the underside of the panels.Fill Voids:
After laying the panels, use the flat side of the trowel to fill any voids with additional thinset. This step is crucial for ensuring full coverage and eliminating air pockets that may compromise the installation.Set Tile:
Once the underlayment is in place, apply tile using a standard notch trowel. The tiles are set directly onto the top surface of the Permat panels. As with the thinset, it is essential to maintain a 1/4" gap where Blanke Permat abuts vertical surfaces, thresholds, or other flooring types such as wood.
Movement Joint Considerations
Movement joints are critical in tile installations to accommodate expansion and contraction caused by temperature and moisture changes. The National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) and Tile Council of North America (TCA) emphasize the importance of properly placed movement joints in preventing tile failures.
Blanke Permat requires the following movement joint spacing based on the installation environment:
- Interior (No Sunlight Exposure): 20–25 feet in both directions
- Interior with Sunlight Exposure: 8–12 feet in both directions
- Exterior: 8–12 feet in both directions
Movement joints must also be installed at the perimeter of the room and at locations where the tile meets vertical surfaces such as walls or door thresholds. These joints should be filled with a flexible sealant to allow for movement without compromising the integrity of the installation.
Benefits of Blanke Permat
Blanke Permat offers several advantages over traditional underlayment systems:
Durability and Strength:
Blanke Permat provides high tensile and compressive strength, making it ideal for supporting heavy tile materials such as porcelain and natural stone. It also offers superior resistance to delamination and deflection compared to other uncoupling membranes.Ease of Installation:
The product is lightweight and easy to handle, with each panel weighing approximately 1.06 lbs and covering 6.5 square feet. The self-seaming design eliminates the need for additional sealing at panel joints, reducing labor time and effort.No Extra Curing Time:
Unlike some uncoupling membranes that require extended drying times before tiling, Blanke Permat can be tiled immediately after installation when using latex-modified thinset with porcelain tile.Cost-Effectiveness:
By eliminating the need for a second layer of plywood or cement board in many applications, Blanke Permat reduces material and labor costs. It also helps avoid the need for additional floor height adjustments.Warranty and Support:
Blanke Permat comes with a 10-year warranty that covers issues related to deflection and delamination. This warranty is unique in the industry and provides long-term peace of mind for both professionals and homeowners.
Commercial and Residential Applications
Blanke Permat is suitable for a wide range of applications, including:
Residential Use
- Wood Substrates: Ideal for installations over plywood or wood subfloors, particularly in rooms with 24" on-center joist spacing.
- Large Format Tiles: Provides a flatter plane and stiffer substrate, which is essential for large tile formats.
- Stone Tile: Offers superior crack isolation and support, reducing the risk of tile failure due to subfloor movement.
- Low-Profile Installation: At only 1/8" thick, it minimizes height gain, making it suitable for retrofitting or thin-layer applications.
Commercial Use
- Heavy Traffic Areas: Designed for floors exposed to high foot traffic, such as airports, retail spaces, nursing homes, and hospitality venues.
- Point Load Support: Offers enhanced resistance to point loads, making it suitable for installations with heavy furniture or equipment.
- High Shear and Compression Strength: Ideal for environments requiring structural integrity and resistance to wear.
- Quick Installation: The ease of handling and installation makes it ideal for large-scale commercial projects with tight timelines.
Common Installation Tips and Best Practices
Use the Right Tools:
A utility knife is recommended for cutting Blanke Permat panels to size. This method is dust-free and ensures clean, precise cuts.Walk on the Panels During Installation:
Blanke Permat is stable enough to walk on during the installation process, which can help with alignment and positioning.Avoid Overlapping Panels:
Ensure that the mesh overhang covers the edges of adjacent panels without overlapping. This helps maintain a consistent thickness and prevents stress points.Follow Tiling Standards:
Always adhere to tile installation standards set by the TCA and NTCA, including movement joint placement, tile spacing, and grout application.Check for Air Pockets:
After pressing the panels into the thinset, inspect for any air pockets or gaps and fill them with additional thinset using the flat side of the trowel.Curing Time:
Allow the thinset to cure for the recommended time before grouting. This is typically based on the manufacturer's specifications for the grout being used.Use Latex-Modified Thinset for Porcelain:
For porcelain tile installations, latex-modified thinset is recommended to ensure proper adhesion and flexibility.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Delamination or Bubbling:
If the panels begin to lift or bubble, it may indicate improper thinset application or insufficient saturation. Reapply thinset and press the panels back into place.Excessive Deflection:
If the underlayment is not performing as expected, check the substrate for structural issues such as uneven joist spacing or insufficient support.Misaligned Seams:
If the panels are not aligned correctly, it can lead to visible seams or weak points in the installation. Use a trowel or roller to press the panels into the thinset and ensure proper overlap.Thinset Voids:
Voids in the thinset can reduce the effectiveness of the underlayment. Use the flat side of the trowel to fill any gaps and ensure full coverage.Movement Joint Issues:
If cracks begin to form around movement joints, it may indicate that the joints were not properly placed or sealed. Re-evaluate the joint placement and use a flexible sealant to prevent further movement.
Maintenance and Long-Term Care
While Blanke Permat is a durable underlayment system, proper maintenance is essential to ensure its long-term performance. The following tips can help extend the life of the installation:
Regular Cleaning:
Clean the tile surface regularly using a mild detergent and water. Avoid using abrasive or acidic cleaners that may damage the surface.Avoid Excessive Moisture:
Blanke Permat is not a waterproofing membrane. Ensure that the installation is properly sealed, especially in areas exposed to moisture.Inspect for Cracks or Wear:
Periodically inspect the tile surface for signs of wear, cracks, or delamination. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.Recaulk Movement Joints:
Over time, the sealant in movement joints may degrade. Reapply flexible sealant as needed to maintain flexibility and prevent water intrusion.Avoid Heavy Impact:
While Blanke Permat is designed to support heavy loads, it is not intended for extreme impacts or point loads beyond the manufacturer’s specifications.
Conclusion
Blanke Permat is a high-performance uncoupling membrane that offers superior strength, durability, and ease of installation. It is an ideal solution for both residential and commercial tile projects, particularly in environments where crack isolation, deflection reduction, and structural support are critical. By following the manufacturer’s installation guidelines and best practices, installers can ensure a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing tile surface.
The product's lightweight design, minimal thickness, and self-seaming panels make it a preferred choice for professionals and DIY users alike. Additionally, the 10-year warranty and compatibility with latex-modified thinset provide added peace of mind and flexibility in tile installations.
For those considering Blanke Permat for their next tile project, it is recommended to consult the manufacturer’s technical documentation and installation videos for a comprehensive understanding of the product’s capabilities and requirements.