Dickbettverlegemörtel

Dickbettverlegemörtel is a cementitious mortar used in tiling to bed tiles in a thick layer, as opposed to thin-set adhesives. It creates a stable, level base on substrates with irregularities and is commonly employed for floors and sometimes walls when a substantial bed is needed to compensate for unevenness, for large-format tiles, or for natural stone.

The bed thickness is typically larger than standard tile adhesives, commonly ranging from about 6 to 30 millimeters, and can be adjusted to accommodate tile size, substrate condition, and installation requirements. Modern Dickbettverlegemörtel products are often cement-sand mixtures, and many are available as ready-mixed or dry-mix formulations. Some variants may incorporate polymers to improve adhesion and flexibility.

Application involves preparing a clean, sound substrate, sometimes priming according to the product instructions, and then applying the mortar bed with a trowel to achieve a level plane. Tiles are pressed into the bed and guided to the correct alignment; large tiles may require back-buttering or additional techniques to ensure solid contact and full bearing. After installation, curing and protection from rapid drying are important, and expansion joints are used at appropriate locations.

Advantages of Dickbettverlegemörtel include its ability to correct substrate irregularities and to support heavy or large-format tiles, reducing the need for extensive substrate leveling. Limitations include increased weight, longer curing times, and a higher risk of cracking if substrate movement occurs or if joints and curing requirements are not properly observed. It is primarily used by professionals in tiling projects where thick-bed installation is indicated.