BETHANY, CT --Laticrete, a manufacturer of globally proven construction solutions for the building industry, has announced the introduction of Strata_Mat XT, a next-generation, high-performance uncoupling membrane designed specifically for ceramic tile and dimension stone installations. Strata_Mat XT provides vapor management, eliminates transmission of in-plane substrate cracks of up to ¹/₈ inches and assists with easier floor layout as chalk lines are easily visible on the surface prior to tile installation. It performs all these functions while still providing the requisite support and load distribution for tile and stone covering. At ⁵/₁₆ inches thick, Strata_Mat XT helps to create an even transition between typical ¼-inch to ³/₈-inch-thick tile and ^¾-inch-thick hardwood flooring.  The new product also allows installers to see mortar coverage underneath the mat during installation without having to lift and verify. Strata_Mat XT comes in 150 square foot rolls measuring 45 inches x 40 feet and ⁵/₁₆ inches thick.

"Lightweight and easy to carry, Strata_Mat XT is also fast to install with standard tools," said Sean Boyle, senior director of marketing and product management. "This next-generation product has countless applications. For example, it is suitable for interior non-industrial vehicular traffic applications over concrete substrates, and it can also be used to create an even transition between tile and hardwood flooring. The list goes on and on."

The product features mortar hydration vents, which create a mechanical bond between the mat and adhesive mortar and allow the mortar to cure faster. This provides a stronger bond of tile and permits faster time to grout when using both modified or unmodified mortars -- enabling the use of the appropriate mortar for an installation.

Part of the Laticrete lifetime system warranty, Strata_Mat XT may be used on almost any substrate including: concrete, mortar beds, oriented strand board, exterior glue plywood, cement backer board, cement terrazzo, resilient flooring, existing tile or stone, gypsum underlayment and light weight concrete.