The Schluter-DILEX-KSA perimeter movement joint profile isolates the tile covering from
walls or other fixed building elements, such as bathtubs, shower trays, and door and window
frames to allow movement of the assembly and prevent stresses that can damage the system.
The profile is available with a stainless steel or aluminum anchoring leg and features
a replaceable rubber movement zone. DILEX-KSA uses the same anchoring leg as DILEX-KSN to
allow for the same appearance throughout an installation.
DILEX-KSA features a self-adhesive backing strip that allows the profile to be bonded
to the fixed building elements if desired.
The profile eliminates the use of sealant, resulting in a permanent, maintenance-free
installation.
The first step towards a successful project is planning.
In this example, we have selected the tile and corresponding profiles, and determined
the overall layout.
The Schluter-RENO-U profile will be used to transition from the tile to the adjacent floor.
We selected the DILEX-KSA size according the thickness and format of the adjacent tile.
In addition to tile setting tools, be sure to gather the appropriate cutting tools for
the profiles. Depending on the profile materials, different tools will be required.
For the DILEX-KSA in aluminum, we will be using a miter saw with a non-ferrous blade.
Aluminum profiles can also be cut using a variable-speed angle grinder with the Schluter-PROCUT-TSM
cutting wheel.
Another option is to simply use a hacksaw with a bimetal blade.
Remove the movement zone before cutting the anchoring leg with the cutting wheel or hacksaw.
Cut the movement zone with Schluter-SNIPS or similar.
The planning is now complete and we’re ready to prepare for installation.
The floor has been prepared to receive tile, including installation of the Schluter-DITRA
uncoupling membrane.
The RENO-U floor transition profile has already been installed. In this application, the RENO-U
profile is installed underneath the DITRA so that it is in direct contact with the substrate
and covers the exposed edge of the membrane.
Measure where the DILEX-KSA will be installed at the floor to wall transition…
…and transfer the measurement to the profile.
Cut the profile to length.
Dry fit the prepared section of DILEX-KSA.
The anchoring leg of the DILEX-KSA must be trimmed to avoid overlap with the adjacent
section at the inside wall corner, since this would interfere with the tile installation.
The anchoring leg doesn’t need to be trimmed at the intersection with the RENO-U profile
because it was installed under the DITRA membrane.
The preparation of the DILEX-KSA is now complete and installation can begin.
In this video, we’ll demonstrate the proper installation of the DILEX-KSA perimeter movement
joint profile in a floor application.
The sequence may vary depending on the layout and installer preference.
If the profile will be adhered to the restraining surface, remove the film from the self-adhesive
backing strip.
The DILEX-KSA is placed against the wall and will be held in place with the adjacent tile.
Using a notched trowel, apply thin-set mortar over the anchoring legs of the DILEX-KSA to
ensure full coverage and support of the tile edges.
Solidly embed the tiles, so that the tiled surface is flush with the top of the profile.
Leave a joint of approximately one-sixteenth to one-eighth inch between the tile and profile.
Remove excess setting material from the profile immediately to avoid any damage to the finish.
Set the remainder of the tile.
The installation of the DILEX-KSA is now complete.
With proper planning and execution, the DILEX-KSA perimeter movement joint profile will provide
a permanent, maintenance-free alternative to sealant.