Hey everyone! I'm currently having a heated floor installed using the Schluter DITRA-HEAT system, and I've got a few concerns I could really use your expertise on before chatting with my contractor. Here are the issues I'm noticing:
1) I don't see any thermostat sensors installed yet. Shouldn't they be in by now?
2) I noticed the Kerdi-band isn't in place yet. Is it normal for this to still be pending at this stage?
3) There's a visible gap in the membrane where it's not covered—does this impact waterproofing or heating performance?
4) The cable spacing seems inconsistent in some spots. Could this pose any safety or functionality issues?
5) I've asked for one corner to remain unheated since we're placing a cabinet there, but they still ran the heating cable there. Is this a safety concern?
I attached a photo for reference. Thanks in advance for any insights you can share!
2 Answers
It’s usually required to have the thermostat sensors in before they tile, so definitely bring that up! The Kerdi-band should typically be installed before any other layers go down to ensure waterproofing, so don’t hesitate to ask about that. As for the visible gap, it might affect the heating efficiency, so it’s best to clarify this point with your contractor to see if it needs fixing. Inconsistent cable spacing can indeed impact both safety and performance, so you want to make sure that’s checked too! And regarding your corner, it could potentially create a fire hazard if too much heat is trapped under the cabinet, so definitely make that known.
It looks like you have some valid concerns! For the sensors, they should typically be placed beforehand, so I’d ask your contractor about that right away. The Kerdi-band is crucial for waterproofing, and it’s usually installed early in the process. That gap in the membrane sounds problematic—water can compromise efficiency over time. The cable spacing should generally be consistent; if it's not, that’s worth bringing up as it could cause overheating. As for the cabinet, they should have listened to your wishes about not heating that corner. It’s important to express your concerns for safety and system integrity.
Definitely agree on the cabinet corner—make sure you stress how important that is to you.
Yeah, definitely insist on the unheated corner issue! They should've respected your request there.