What Is Decoupling Matting

Decoupling membranes protect tiles from damage when the substrate beneath them shifts. Also known as decoupling mats, you can lay on your tiles on them as soon as the matting is down.

Do I need a decoupling mat?

Most commonly, uncoupling membranes are used when laying tile over concrete. … Other less common and more challenging substrates like asphalt and metal require an uncoupling membrane to ensure the tile will adhere to these surfaces.

What is decoupling membrane used for?

Uncoupling membranes are usually used to uncouple the tiling layer from the substrate and thus reduce the stresses built up between substrate and tile. They can also offer waterproofing and channels for evaporation or heat exchange.