Tile & Decoupling Membranes
A decoupling membrane is a thin mat laid between the subfloor and the tiles. It absorbs small sideways movements in the floor so they don’t crack the tiles above, and several of ours are waterproof too. We stock mats for use with heating mats, with loose wire and in-screed cable, and on their own in wet areas.
Comprehensive range of technologically advanced tile and decoupling membrane systems meticulously engineered to deliver unparalleled durability and load distribution. Suitable for diverse applications including interior and exterior installations, our product range offers cutting-edge solutions that effectively mitigate substrate movement and fractures.
Decoupling membranes are like protective shields for new tile floors. They prevent the tiles from cracking or coming loose if the ground underneath them moves or develops cracks. These membranes are commonly used in new homes because the ground under the house can shift a bit as it settles. The membrane acts as a buffer, absorbing the sideways movements and stopping the tiles from getting cracked or breaking.
Most of the decoupling membranes we have in stock can also keep water out. When the seams between sections are properly sealed, they stop water from getting in, which makes things last longer. These membranes are also made to spread out the weight on floors that have to hold heavy things.
Which decoupling membrane do I need?
| Your job | Decoupling mat | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Tiling with a 150W or 200W heating mat | Anti-fracture mat SF or the self-adhesive version | Just 2.5mm thick. Suits concrete or wood, new builds, extensions and older, damaged subfloors. |
| Loose wire or in-screed cable | Loose cable mat HC or the self-adhesive lug mat | The cable clips into the lugs. Spaced at 60mm (2 lugs) our loose wire gives 200W/m², at 90mm 135W/m². |
| Wet areas, walls or soundproofing, no heating | SP decoupling matting | Waterproof, anti-crack and soundproofing, for floors and walls. Rolls 1m wide in 5m, 10m and 20m. |
Sealing the joints
Tanking tape
Self-adhesive, peel and stick. Seals board joints, corners and pipe entries.
View tanking tapeAqua Pro jointing band
Seals the joints between membrane sheets, bedded in a flexible tile adhesive or tanking gum.
View jointing bandTanking corners
Internal and external corners to waterproof where walls and floor meet, in plain or self-adhesive.
View tanking cornersShowerliner
Thin waterproofing membrane for tanking shower walls and floors under tiles and stone.
View ShowerlinerDecoupling membrane FAQs
What does a decoupling membrane do?
It separates the tiles from the subfloor, absorbing small sideways movements so the tiles don’t crack or come loose when the floor underneath moves.
Is an uncoupling membrane the same thing?
Yes. Uncoupling and decoupling membranes are two names for the same job.
When do I need a decoupling membrane?
Wherever the subfloor may move: new builds and extensions while they settle, and older or damaged subfloors. It works on concrete and wood.
Which one works with underfloor heating?
With a 150W or 200W heating mat, use the anti-fracture mat SF or its self-adhesive version. With loose wire or in-screed cable, use the loose cable mat HC or the self-adhesive lug mat, which hold the cable at the right spacing.
Is decoupling membrane waterproof?
Several of ours are, including the SP matting, which forms a waterproof barrier. Seal the joints between sheets with jointing band or tanking tape so water can’t get through.
Can I tile straight onto it?
Yes, that’s what it’s for. Tile onto it with a flexible tile adhesive.
Can it go on walls?
Our SP decoupling matting is made for floor and wall tile installations.
Not sure which mat suits your floor? Call us on +44 (0)1803 316060 and we’ll help you choose.

