Schluter®-DILEX-HKS is a cove shaped profile and movement joint for floor to wall transitions,
providing a versatile alternative to ceramic trim and sealant in commercial applications.
DILEX-HKS features a soft, thermoplastic rubber movement zone that is attached to
the profile. The stainless steel cove prevents the accumulation of dirt and makes cleaning simple.
DILEX-HKS features many accessories to facilitate installation, including inside and outside
corners, connectors, and end caps. Visit schluter.com for more options.
This versatility makes DILEX-HKS an ideal choice for virtually any tile application.
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 DILEX-HKS cove shaped profile
will be used at the floor to wall transitions. DILEX-EHK will be used at the inside wall corner.
QUADEC-FS will be used as a feature strip profile within the tiled wall.
For finishing the wall tile, we will be using Schluter-QUADEC.
We selected the DILEX-HKS 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-HKS we will be using a variable speed angle grinder with the
Schluter-PROCUT-TSM cutting wheel. 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.
We check the walls with a straight edge to see if they are flat or will require any correction
before the installation begins. This is an important consideration in any application,
but especially when profiles will be used as shown here.
Measure where the DILEX-HKS will be installed at the floor to wall transition.
Transfer the measurement to the profile. For this demonstration, we will be mitering the
profiles where they meet at the inside corner. The DILEX-HKS is cut using a variable-speed
angle grinder with the Schluter-PROCUT-TSM cutting wheel.
Set the angle grinder to the lowest speed. Be sure to observe all safety
instructions and standards. Before using the angle grinder,
peel back the thermoplastic rubber movement zone to avoid melting it.
Cut the profile slowly. Using the grinder on high
speed or trying to make cuts too fast can result in warping and discoloration of the metal and
damage to the movement zone. File the cut end of the
profile to remove any burrs. Now we can cut the thermoplastic rubber
movement zone with Schluter-SNIPS or similar. Dry fitting the profiles prior to installation
will help ensure proper fit and alignment. Moving to the adjacent wall, measure between the
inside and outside corners, taking into account where the two DILEX-HKS profiles will meet.
Cut the profile and check for proper fit. Repeat this process until the DILEX-HKS has been
prepared for all the floor to wall transitions. Place the corner accessories
to ensure a proper fit. Before installing the DILEX-HKS,
we also need to identify any areas where the anchoring legs of the profiles overlap.
The anchoring legs are trimmed at the inside wall corner where DILEX-HKS meets the DILEX-EHK.
We also trimmed the Schluter-QUADEC where it meets the DILEX-HKS at the outside corner.
Next we remove the protective film from the profile.
The preparation of the DILEX-HKS is now complete and installation can begin.
In this video, we’ll demonstrate the proper installation of the DILEX-HKS cove shaped profile
and accessories at floor to wall transitions. The sequence may vary depending on the
layout and installer preference. Now that the DILEX-HKS has been cut and
dry fit, we can begin installing the profil Apply thin-set mortar to the back side of
the profile to secure the end cap. Place the END CAP into the profile.
Apply thin-set mortar to the area where the DILEX-HKS will be installed.
Embed the profiles into the thin-set mortar and align.
Continue the process of installing the profiles along the floor to wall transition.
The connectors and inside corner piece are installed over the adjacent sections
of DILEX-HKS using Schluter-KERDI-FIX or other elastomeric adhesive, such
as silicone. Make sure the surfaces are clean and free of grease or other bond breakers.
Apply KERDI-FIX to the back of the connector and place over the
adjacent sections of the DILEX-HKS. Repeat this process for the inside and
outside corners, making sure to properly align the accessories while the sealant is still pliable.
Remove any setting material or adhesive from the profile immediately to avoid
any damage to the finish. Trowel thin-set mortar over
the perforated anchoring leg to ensure full coverage and support of the tile edges.
Solidly embed the tiles so that the tiled surface is flush with the surface of the profile.
Remove excess setting material from the profile immediately to avoid any damage to the finish.
Continue to set the remaining tile. The floor tiles must not be higher than the surface of
the profile, as this will create a trough that can collect dirt or other debris and
make cleaning difficult. The installation of the
remaining profiles and tile is now complete. With proper planning and execution, DILEX-HKS
will provide a beautiful, hygienic and easy to clean transition in any tile installation.