Mapeguard UM: Tile underlayment membranes made simple

When installing ceramic tile or stone, one of the most important steps for a durable, long-lasting floor is using the right underlayment. A tile underlayment membrane is a layer that is installed between the subfloor and the tile or stone surface. Its main purpose is to protect your installation by providing crack suppression, preventing minor substrate movement or cracks from transferring to your tile or stone, and offering waterproofing to shield against moisture damage. An underlayment membrane will also allow for vapor-pressure equalization, which is particularly beneficial over young concrete or substrates that are prone to moisture.

By acting as a buffer between the subfloor and your finished surface, a tile underlayment membrane ensures a stronger, longer-lasting installation, especially in areas with challenging substrates.

Protecting tile and stone with Mapeguard UM underlayment membrane

Mapeguard UM is MAPEI’s premium-performance, lightweight, waterproofing and vapor-pressure-equalizing underlayment membrane. It is designed for both ceramic tile and natural stone installations, making it an excellent choice for residential and commercial applications alike.

This membrane is also highly versatile, performing well over challenging substrates such as young concrete and single-layer 3/4" (19 mm) plywood subfloors with joist spacing up to 19.2" (49 cm) on center. For double-layer plywood subfloors, it can handle spacing up to 24" (61 cm) on center.

The engineered tri-layered design is what makes Mapeguard UM so effective. It absorbs lateral stress from the substrate without transferring that force to the tile or stone, which maintains exceptional bonds. And, because Mapeguard UM is lightweight and easy to install, contractors can enjoy faster installations without sacrificing premium performance.

Why choose Mapeguard UM for your next project?

When your project calls for tile or stone, choosing the right tile underlayment membrane is critical for durability and longevity. Mapeguard UM combines waterproofing, crack suppression and substrate flexibility into one solution, ensuring that your installation can handle real-world conditions without compromising style.