Ultraplan and Novoplan are the SLU products tile installers request when the substrate warranty matters. We source Mapei, apply the matched primer, and pour to the depth your finish flooring requires. No substitutions, no shortcuts. Free written estimate and firm schedule.
When a tile installer specifies Mapei, they are betting their warranty on the Mapei system. Ultraplan handles thin to moderate depths; Novoplan is built for thicker applications and structural specs. The primer and the SLU chemistry are engineered as a pair. Using a different primer breaks the bond and voids the warranty.
We install Mapei as the Mapei specialist. We source the matched primer, select the right product for your depth, and follow the cure schedule that gives the tile installer a substrate they can stand behind. If your project also needs Mapei waterproofing for moisture control, we coordinate that into the prep. See our full Mapei product range for other applications.
If your spec calls for Ardex self-leveling instead, we install Ardex with the same rigor. Both are premium systems; the choice depends on your tile contractor's preference and warranty path.
Recent work
Installation sequence
How Mapei SLU Gets Installed in Pittsburgh
Assess and select product
We review the substrate condition, target depth, and the tile installer's spec to determine whether Ultraplan or Novoplan is the right choice for your project.
Prep and prime the slab
The concrete slab is diamond-ground to Mapei profile, cleaned of contaminants, and primed with the matched Mapei primer for permanent adhesion.
Mix, pour, and level
Mapei SLU is mixed to spec water ratio, poured across the floor, and allowed to self-level. The working window is tight, so we move with precision.
Cure and hand off
The slab cures to Mapei schedule, final flatness is verified against the tile spec, and the substrate is ready for the tile installer to begin.
Trade coordination
Respecting the Tile Contractor's Mapei Specification
When the tile contractor on your project specifies Mapei, it is because they have confidence in the Mapei warranty path for their tile work. We honor that spec, install Mapei to Mapei standards, and the tile trade gets the substrate they expect without compromise.
If substrate damage or old concrete requires repair before the SLU pour, we use Mapei repair products to keep the system consistent. Explore our other brand specialties for additional concrete services.
Product selection, tile-trade warranty, primer requirements, and cure timing.
Ultraplan for feather-to-moderate depth pours; Novoplan for thicker pours and structural-spec applications. We pick based on the substrate condition and target depth confirmed with the finish-flooring installer.
Because they trust the Mapei system warranty for their tile install on top, and they have install experience with the Mapei substrate. Honoring the spec keeps the tile-install warranty intact.
Yes. The Mapei primer is calibrated to the SLU chemistry; a generic primer or no primer voids the system warranty and risks delamination. We use the matched primer always.
Not typically; Mapei SLU is designed as substrate for finish flooring. For polished-as-finish projects, a different product family is the right call.
Per Mapei spec, typically within a day or two depending on product and depth. The tile installer's spec also matters; we coordinate the cure handoff with them.
They installed Mapei to spec, including the matched primer. My tile install warranty stayed intact, which is why I keep requesting them on projects with Mapei specced.
Z. B6
Tile Contractor, Pittsburgh
★★★★★
Mapei was on the spec sheet from the tile trade. They sourced and installed Mapei, not a substitute. Tile install went cleanly, no callbacks. Spec respect matters.
Y. B6
GC, Aliquippa
★★★★★
Multiple buildings with Mapei substrate for high-end tile install. Consistent quality across all of them, tile trade approved each substrate without complaint.
Q. B6
Property Developer, Monroeville
★★★★★
They explained why the tile contractor's Mapei spec mattered for warranty path. Installed accordingly. Real awareness of trade coordination.
X. B6
Custom Builder, Mckeesport
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