STRATA_HEAT™ Mat, Wire and Tile Installations
What substrates can I install STRATA_HEAT™ Mat onto?
STRATA_HEAT™ Mat can be laid directly over HYDRO BAN® Board, properly prepared concrete, exterior glue plywood, OSB (interior only), cement backer board, fiber cement underlayment, existing ceramic tile and stone, cement mortar beds, cement terrazzo, gypsum underlayment, and lightweight concrete.STRATA_HEAT Wire (installed with STRATA_HEAT Spacing Strips) can be installed over HYDRO BAN Board, 170 Sound & Crack Isolation Mat, properly prepared concrete, exterior glue plywood, cement backer board, existing ceramic tile/stone, existing ceramic tile and stone, and cement mortar beds for interior, horizontal applications only.
Related Documents:
STRATA_HEAT™ Mat DS 026.1STRATA_HEAT Wire DS 026.2
STRATA_HEAT Thermostat DS 026.3
STRATA_HEAT Thermal Pack DS 107.7
HYDRO BAN Board DS 040.0
170 Sound & Crack Isolation Mat DS 170.0
STRATA_HEAT Wire Installation Manual DS 044.6
Can I trowel directly over the STRATA_HEAT™ Wire and set tile immediately?
Yes. Simply key the mortar into the wire and substrate using the flat side of a trowel, or a rubber float, to apply a smooth skim coat of a latex or polymer fortified thin-set or large, heavy tile mortar (e.g. 257 Titanium or MULTIMAX™ LITE) over STRATA_HEAT Wire. Make sure to use enough mortar to cover and protect the heating element wire in its entirety. Trowel additional thin-set mortar and set the tile or stone in one step.Related Documents:
STRATA_HEAT™ Mat DS 026.1STRATA_HEAT Wire DS 026.2
STRATA_HEAT Thermostat DS 026.3
STRATA_HEAT Thermal Pack DS 107.7
257 Titanium DS 292.0
MULTIMAX™ LITE DS 328.0
HYDRO BAN Board DS 040.0
STRATA_HEAT Wire Installation Manual DS 044.6
STRATA_HEAT Wire Installation Video – Click Here
Can I pour self-leveling underlayment over STRATA_HEAT™ Wire?
Yes. For installation over concrete or cement mortar beds - Lay the STRATA_HEAT™ Wire onto the substrate using STRATA_HEAT Wire Spacing Strips. Prime the substrate and STRATA_HEAT Wire with NXT™ Primer, or required primer based on underlayment and allow to dry to a clear film (2 – 3 hours @ 70˚F [21˚C]). After NXT Primer has dried properly, mix NXT Level Plus or NXT Level and pour over entire field. Ensure that STRATA_HEAT Wire is completely encapsulated by self-leveling underlayment and allow to dry.For installation over exterior glue plywood, cement backer board or fiber cement underlayment – Lay the STRATA_HEAT Wire onto the substrate using STRATA_HEAT Wire Spacing Strips. Prime the substrate with NXT Primer or required primer based on underlayment and allow to dry to a clear film (2 – 3 hours @ 70˚F [21˚C]). After NXT Primer has dried properly, mix NXT Level Plus, NXT Level, or other self-leveling underlayment and pour over entire field. Ensure that STRATA_HEAT Wire is completely encapsulated by self-leveling underlayment and allow to dry.
For installation over existing ceramic tile or stone – skim coat existing tile or stone installation with a rapid, polymer fortified thin-set mortar (e.g. 254R Platinum Rapid) and allow to dry for 2 - 4 hours @ 70˚F (21˚C). Lay the STRATA_HEAT Wire onto the hardened skim coat using STRATA_HEAT Spacing Strips. Prime the substrate with NXT Primer or required primer based on underlayment and allow to dry to a clear film (2 – 3 hours @ 70˚F [21˚C]). After NXT Primer has dried properly, mix NXT™ Level Plus or NXT Level and pour over entire field. Ensure that STRATA_HEAT™ Wire is completely encapsulated by self-leveling underlayment and allow to dry.
Related Documents:
STRATA_HEAT™ Mat DS 026.1STRATA_HEAT Wire DS 026.2
STRATA_HEAT Thermostat DS 026.3
STRATA_HEAT Thermal Pack DS 107.7
NXT Level Plus DS 505.0
NXT Level DS 504.0
NXT Primer DS 502.0
254R Platinum Rapid DS 729.0
STRATA_HEAT Wire Installation Manual DS 044.6
STRATA_HEAT Wire Installation Video – Click Here
Can I skim coat the STRATA_HEAT™ Wire into place and then set tile at a later time?
Yes. Skim coat the STRATA_HEAT™ Wire with a polymer-fortified thin-set (e.g. 257 Titanium, 254 Platinum, MULTIMAX™ LITE, etc…) using the flat side of a trowel or a rubber float and allow to dry. Tile can be installed directly to the skim coat the next day.Related Documents:
STRATA_HEAT™ Mat DS 026.1
STRATA_HEAT Wire DS 026.2
STRATA_HEAT Thermostat DS 026.3
STRATA_HEAT Thermal Pack DS 107.7
254 Platinum DS 677.0
257 Titanium DS 292.0
MULTIMAX™ LITE DS 328.0
HYDRO BAN Board DS 040.0
STRATA_HEAT Wire Installation Manual DS 044.6
STRATA_HEAT Wire Installation Video – Click Here
Which LATICRETE mortars can be used to install STRATA_HEAT™ Wire?
Depending on the substrate, any LATICRETE® polymer-fortified thin-set (e.g. 257 Titanium, 254 Platinum, etc...) or large, heavy tile mortar (e.g. MULTIMAX LITE) can be used to install STRATA_HEAT™ Wire.Related Documents:
STRATA_HEAT™ Mat DS 026.1STRATA_HEAT Wire DS 026.2
STRATA_HEAT Thermostat DS 026.3
STRATA_HEAT Thermal Pack DS 107.7
257 Titanium DS 292.0
MULTIMAX™ LITE DS 328.0
254 Platinum DS 677.0
STRATA_HEAT Wire Installation Manual DS 044.6
What floor finishes can I install over STRATA_HEAT™ Mat?
STRATA_HEAT™ Mat and STRATA_HEAT Wire are specifically designed for the installation of tile and stone only.Related Documents:
STRATA_HEAT™ Mat DS 026.1STRATA_HEAT Wire DS 026.2
STRATA_HEAT Wire Installation Manual DS 044.6
Can STRATA_HEAT™ Wire be used in shower applications?
Yes, however showers may only be 120v systems. When installing a STRATA_HEAT™ Wire system in a shower, it must be placed between two non-combustible materials.Install the STRATA_HEAT Wire system on top of the sloped pan if shower base is a poured mortar bed. Then, skim-coated with thin-set and tile over. Do not install STRATA_HEAT Wire directly over the rubber moisture membrane. We also advise against embedding STRATA_HEAT Wire in the mortar bed as long heating times could ensue. In the case of building panels such as backer-boards or HYDRO BAN® Board, you can install STRATA_HEAT Wire directly over the boards. Please refer to the corresponding installation manual for more information.
Related Documents:
STRATA_HEAT™ Mat DS 026.1STRATA_HEAT Wire DS 026.2
STRATA_HEAT Thermostat DS 026.3
STRATA_HEAT Wire Installation Manual DS 044.6
Can STRATA_HEAT™ Wire be stapled to a suitably constructed (per Tile Council of North America) exterior glue plywood substrate or any other substrate?
No. The STRATA_HEAT™ Wire must be installed using STRATA_HEAT Spacing Strips or STRATA_HEAT Mat.Related Documents:
STRATA_HEAT™ Mat DS 026.1STRATA_HEAT Wire DS 026.2
STRATA_HEAT Wire Installation Manual DS 044.6
How long will it take to warm the floor with STRATA_HEAT™ Wire?
Each installation of STRATA_HEAT™ will vary due to several factors; thickness of the tile or stone, type of substrate, thickness of tile, and ambient temperature will all play roles in how fast the floor warms. A good rule of thumb is 10-12˚F (5.6 – 6.7˚C) warmer an hour on average.Related Documents:
STRATA_HEAT™ Mat DS 026.1STRATA_HEAT Wire DS 026.2
STRATA_HEAT Thermostat DS 026.3
STRATA_HEAT Thermal Pack DS 107.7
STRATA_HEAT Wire Installation Manual DS 044.6
Can I use a waterproofing membrane in conjunction with STRATA_HEAT™ Wire?
Yes. HYDRO BAN®, 9235 Waterproofing Membrane, HYDRO BAN Quick Cure, and HYDRO BARRIER can be installed on under a LATICRETE polymer fortified thin-set (e.g. 257 Titanium, 254 Platinum, MULTIMAX™ LITE, etc…) which is used to encapsulate the STRATA_HEAT™ system. These LATICRETE membranes must be installed on top of dry NXT™ Level Plus, dry NXT Level, or other suitable substrate prior to installation of tile or stone. These membranes can withstand temperatures up to 280°F (138°C).Related Documents:
STRATA_HEAT™ Mat DS 026.1STRATA_HEAT Wire DS 026.2
STRATA_HEAT Thermostat DS 026.3
STRATA_HEAT Thermal Pack DS 107.7
NXT Level Plus DS 505.0
NXT Level DS 504.0
NXT Primer DS 502.0
257 Titanium DS 292.0
MULTIMAX™ LITE DS 328.0
254 Platinum DS 677.0
STRATA_HEAT Wire Installation Manual DS 044.6
How do I layout the STRATA_HEAT™ Wire prior to installation?
Refer to the STRATA_HEAT™ Wire installation guide (DS 044.6), contact your local LATICRETE distributor or call LATICRETE Technical Services at 1-800-243-4788 x1235 for more information.Related Documents:
STRATA_HEAT™ Wire Installation Manual DS 044.6Are STRATA_ HEAT™ Mat and STRATA_HEAT Wire covered by a LATICRETE® Warranty?
Yes. STRATA_HEAT Wire is provided for in the LATICRETE® Lifetime Tile & Stone System Warranty (DS 230.99) and LATICRETE 25 Year System Warranty (DS 025.0), LATICRETE 10 Year System Warranty (DS 230.10), and LATICRETE 5 Year System Warranty (DS 230.05) as a component of a complete product system. For further information on LATICRETE Warranties please visit our website at www.laticrete.com or contact LATICRETE Technical Services at 1-800-243-4788 x1235.Related Documents:
LATICRETE® Lifetime Tile & Stone System Warranty DS 230.99LATICRETE 25 Year Tile & Stone System Warranty DS 025.0
LATICRETE 10 Year Tile & Stone System Warranty DS 230.10
LATICRETE 5 Year Tile & Stone System Warranty DS 230.05
LATICRETE Product Warranty DS 230.13
STRATA_HEAT™ Mat DS 026.1
STRATA_HEAT Wire DS 026.2
How do I configure/program my STRATA_HEAT™ Thermostat?
There are several references to help you program the STRATA_HEAT™ Thermostat and are available at https://laticrete.com or by clicking the links below:Related Documents:
Smart Wifi Thermostat Easy Setup Guide DS 046.4Wifi Thermostat Operating Manual DS 046.2
Wifi Thermostat Trouble Shooting Guide DS 044.8
Programmable Thermostat Operating Manual DS 050.4
Programmable Thermostat Easy Setup Guide DS 050.7
When can I turn my STRATA_HEAT™ Thermostat and STRATA_HEAT Wire on?
The STRATA_HEAT™ Thermostat and STRATA_HEAT Wire should not be turned on until the entire tile installation (including grout) has had a chance to fully cure (typically 7 days at 70°F [21°C]). Cooler ambient temperatures require longer cure time.Related Documents:
STRATA_HEAT™ Mat DS 026.1STRATA_HEAT Wire DS 026.2
STRATA_HEAT Thermostat DS 026.3
STRATA_HEAT™ Wire Installation Manual DS 044.6
Electrical
Should I have a professional electrician hook up my STRATA_HEAT™ Wire to the STRATA_HEAT Thermostat and wiring?
Yes. By most building codes, only a professional electrician should make all connections regarding any electrical wiring. Failure to have electrical connections performed by a licensed electrician will void any LATICRETE Warranty and, quite possibly, may void any homeowner’s insurance.Related Documents:
STRATA_HEAT Wire DS 026.2STRATA_HEAT Thermostat DS 026.3
STRATA_HEAT™ Wire Installation Manual DS 044.6
What electrical requirements does STRATA_HEAT™ Wire need?
STRATA_HEAT Wire requires a minimum 20 amp dedicated circuit and must be installed by a professional electrician.Related Documents:
STRATA_HEAT Wire DS 026.2STRATA_HEAT Thermostat DS 026.3
STRATA_HEAT™ Wire Installation Manual DS 044.6
How much does STRATA_HEAT™ Wire cost to operate?
The formula to figure out much you’re spending each year on using your STRATA_HEAT goes like this: watts / 1,000 = kilowatts * hours per day of usage = kWh * rate you pay from electricity company per kWh = cost per day x 365 = cost per year.Is STRATA_HEAT™ Wire and STRATA_HEAT Thermostat available in a 240 Volt as well as a 120 Volt configuration?
Yes. STRATA_HEAT™ Wire is available in both 120 V and 240 V configurations. It is essential that the voltage of the Floor HEAT components you purchase matches the electrical supply of your house or building. The STRATA_HEAT Thermostat is designed for use with both 120v and 240v STRATA_HEAT Wire.Related Documents:
STRATA_HEAT™ Wire DS 026.2STRATA_HEAT Thermostat DS 026.3
STRATA_HEAT Wire Installation Manual DS 044.6
How many STRATA_HEAT™ Wire spools can I install on one thermostat?
It depends on the size of the spools. You cannot exceed 15 total amps on one thermostat. Please consult LATICRETE Technical Services at 1-800-243-4788 x1235, or contact your professional electrician for more information.Related Documents:
STRATA_HEAT™ Wire DS 026.2STRATA_HEAT Thermostat DS 026.3
STRATA_HEAT Wire Installation Manual DS 044.6
Can I join two (2) STRATA_HEAT™ Wire Spools together by connecting their wires?
No. STRATA_HEAT™ Wire spools cannot be connected end to end. Applications requiring more than one STRATA_HEAT Wire spool should be wired by a professional electrician in a parallel connection and joined in a junction box or relay, then wired into the same thermostat.Related Documents:
STRATA_HEAT™ Wire DS 026.2STRATA_HEAT Thermostat DS 026.3
STRATA_HEAT Wire Installation Manual DS 044.6
Can I cut the STRATA_HEAT™ blue heating element (wire) if I have too much left over?
No, you cannot cut the STRATA_HEAT wire for any reason. If you cut the wire, you could possibly permanently damage the wire. However, if you have too much floor heating wire for your floor configuration there are some options.First, it is best that you carefully measure your desired heating area prior to ordering your product to avoid unnecessary installation delays.
If you have excess wire, it is possible to adjust the spacing of your wires. For example, if the wires are spaced at 3 (76mm) apart you can adjust the spacing to be closer. Note: Make sure that you never space the wires closer than 2" (50mm).
If you used a 4" (102mm) border, make it a 2" (50mm) border instead. Place the wire in sections of the room not currently covered to use up additional wire. Always remember not to place the wire under any permanent fixtures and not positioning them closer than 2" (50mm) apart.
In some cases you may have simply miscalculated how much floor heating wire was needed and you just have too much. In this case you will have to re-measure your space and request a different size.
As a reminder, it is vital that you carefully measure your desired heating area prior to ordering your product to avoid unnecessary installation delays. Failure to comply will void any warranty or claims.
Related Documents:
STRATA_HEAT™ Joint Repair Guide DS 049.2What happens if a STRATA_HEAT™ blue heating element (wire) is cut, frayed or chipped?
Repair kits are available. Please contact LATICRETE Technical Services at 1.800.243.4788 x1235 to obtain a kit and instructions on performing repairs.Related Documents:
STRATA_HEAT™ Joint Repair Guide DS 049.2Can I lay one STRATA_HEAT™ blue heating element (wire) over another?
No. The blue heating elements (wire) should never be laid on top of each other or make contact in any way. Please consult with a licensed electrician or LATICRETE Technical Services, at 1.800.243.4788 x1235 for more information.I slightly nicked the STRATA_HEAT™ Wire. Do I need a repair kit?
The STRATA_HEAT™ Wire consists of two inner conductors, each insulated, then surrounded by a ground braid and a final cable jacket. A very slight scrape to the cable may only reveal the ground braid. If that is the case, it should be sufficient to shrink wrap the area tightly. If that is the case, it should be sufficient to shrink wrap the area tightly. However, if any damage has been made to the braid, a proper repair needs to be completed. Any damage, however slight, could result in issues down the road. But so could an improper repair, so it is up to the installer to weigh the pros and cons and the level of cable damage.Related Documents:
STRATA_HEAT™ Joint Repair Guide DS 049.2Can I extend the cold lead of the STRATA_HEAT™ Wire?
Your electrician should be able to extend the cold tail lead using Romex cable and running the lead(s) to a junction box. This will allow you to connect your cable system to the thermostat in the location of your choice. Please refer to the installation manual for additional information.Related Documents:
STRATA_HEAT™ Wire Installation Manual DS 044.6Why does my floor feel warmer in some spots?
Your floor can reach higher temperatures in some areas where furniture, area rugs, dog beds or other fixtures are trapping the heat. Avoid placing thick mats, rugs and floor level furniture on your heated floor, specifically in the area where the sensor probe is located. These restrict the transfer of heat away from the cables and result in the floor area beneath them being warmer than other areas.Warmer spots can also be caused if wire spacing is closer in some parts than others. Make sure the wire is spaced consistently at the time of installation. Additionally, this can result if the installation has more mortar or self-leveling over the wires in different areas.
Wire spacing and levelness of the floor can make a big difference. If wire spacing and floor height isn’t consistent, your floor may not heat evenly.
Related Documents:
STRATA_HEAT™ Wire Installation Manual DS 044.6Where must the factory joint of STRATA_HEAT™ Wire be installed?
The factory joint MUST be installed in the floor. If it is not installed in the floor, the joint may give and your system will no longer work. Not only will your warranty be voided but you will have to repair the joint and place it back into the floor. To help with the height the joint adds, consider cutting a channel in the sub-floor for the joint. This will help avoid adding height and maintain levelness in the floor.Related Documents:
STRATA_HEAT™ Wire Installation Manual DS 044.6What is the Electric Magnetic Field (EMF) level of STRATA_HEAT™ Wire?
Our cable was tested and measured 0.5 mG at 1/2” (a typical distance between the cable and your feet). This measures at 1/200th of the acceptable value of 100 mG as established by the WHO and Intertek/ETL. It therefore complies with EN50366. Any value under 100 mG is typically defined as having no measurable impact on humans.EMF concerns were related to high frequency items such as industrial equipment and high voltage lines in residential areas. Not microwaves, cell phones or floor heating systems. Human exposure to EMF is not an issue at these very low levels.
Keeping in mind that floor heating industry products will measure around 2 to 3 mG (up to 19 mT for single-core cable) and at times below 1 mG, here are some comparative levels of EMF;
- Vacuum Cleaners 300mG
- Microwave Ovens 200mG
- Dishwashers 20mG
- Electric Dryer 3mG