Schluter-SCHIENE-STEP is a finishing and edging profile for ceramic tile and natural
stone installations on countertops, stairs, and tile over tile applications on walls.
SCHIENE-STEP is available in anodized aluminum and stainless steel versions, which have
slightly different shapes and intended uses. The stainless steel version features a brushed
finish and is available in three vertical leg lengths. Each length is suited for a
different application: countertops, stairs, and tile over tile applications on walls.
The stainless steel version also features several accessories to
facilitate installation including inside and outside corners, and connectors. The accessory
pieces are available only to integrate with the stainless steel version of the SCHIENE-STEP.
The anodized aluminum version is available in two vertical lengths to cover the edge
of the sub-assembly. Accessories are not available for the anodized aluminum version.
Schluter-SCHIENE-STEP in anodized aluminum is an elegant solution to finish and protect tile
edges in residential stair applications or others not exposed to heavy traffic.
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. SCHIENE-STEP in anodized aluminum
will be used as the stair-nosing. The Schluter-DILEX-EKE movement joint will
be used between the stair treads and risers. The Schluter- DILEX-BWA movement joint will be
installed between the tile and stringers. The DILEX profiles are maintenance free
alternatives to sealant joints. We selected the SCHIENE-STEP size
according to the thickness and format of the adjacent tile and chose the
vertical length to cover the sub-assembly. In addition to tile setting tools, be sure to
gather the appropriate cutting tools for the profiles. Depending on the profile material,
different tools will be required. For the SCHIENE-STEP in aluminum,
we will be using a variable-speed angle grinder with the Schluter-PROCUT-TSM cutting wheel.
Aluminum profiles can also be cut using a chop saw or miter saw with a non-ferrous blade.
Another option is to simply use a hacksaw. Look for a bimetal blade and select the highest teeth
per inch, or TPI, available. A miter box is recommended to help ensure a straight cut.
The planning is now complete and we re ready to prepare for installation.
In this video, we ll demonstrate the proper installation of the
SCHIENE-STEP anodized aluminum profile in a residential stair application.
The sequence may vary depending on the layout and installer preference.
The SCHIENE-STEP profiles are installed in conjunction with the tiles.
The stairs have been prepared to receive tile, including installation of the
Schluter-DITRA uncoupling membrane. Measure where the SCHIENE-STEP will
be installed along the stair nosing. Transfer the measurement to the profile.
The SCHIENE-STEP is cut using a variable-speed angle grinder with the PROCUT-TSM cutting wheel.
Be sure to observe all safety instructions and standards.
Set the angle grinder to the lowest speed. Cut the profile slowly.
File the cut end of the profile to remove any burrs.
Dry fit the profile before moving forward with the installation.
Measure where the DILEX profiles will be installed and cut the profiles to length
using snips. Make sure the blade is sharp to help ensure a clean cut.
Use a cut section of the riser tile to determine the proper measurements.
Dry fit the DILEX-EKE. Place the stair riser tile onto the DILEX-EKE and dry fit
the SCHIENE-STEP over the tile. Measure and cut sections of DILEX-BWA for the tread and riser.
Dry fit the DILEX-BWA. Where profile anchoring legs overlap,
they must be trimmed as this would interfere with the tile installation.
Cut the anchoring legs and dry fit the profiles. Continue the process of measuring, cutting,
and dry fitting the SCHIENE-STEP, and DILEX profiles onto the stairs to ensure proper fit.
Once the profiles have been cut and checked, the installation can begin.
Using a notched trowel, apply thin-set mortar to the stair riser and adjacent treads for the
installation of the profiles and tile. We begin by simply placing the DILEX
movement profiles at the tread to riser transition and against the stringers.
The profiles will be held in place with the installation of the adjacent tiles.
Trowel thin-set mortar over the perforated anchoring legs to ensure
full coverage and support of the tile edges. Solidly embed the tiles in the thin-set mortar,
leaving a joint of approximately one-sixteenth inch to one-eighth
inch between the tile and the profile. Apply thin-set mortar to the area where
the SCHIENE-STEP will be installed. Place several beads of KERDI-FIX or
similar to the backside of the SCHIENE-STEP. Press the anchoring leg of the profile into the
thin-set mortar and align. Stair nosing profiles must be solidly embedded prior to setting tile
to ensure support and long-term performance. Trowel thin-set mortar over all profile anchoring
legs to ensure full coverage and support of the tile edges on the stair tread.
Solidly embed the tiles into the thin-set mortar, so that the tiled surface is flush
with the surface of the profiles. Set the tile to the SCHIENE-STEP integrated joint spacer,
which ensures a uniform joint. Insert the tile into the
pocket of the DILEX-EKE. Remove excess setting material from the profiles
immediately to avoid any damage to the finish. Repeat the installation process
making sure the SCHIENE-STEP is properly supported on each stair tread.
The SCHIENE-STEP installation is now complete. With proper planning and execution,
the SCHIENE-STEP profile will provide a clean finish and protect tile edges on stairs.