Glossary · Bathroom terms

Uncoupling Membrane

Definition

A layer (e.g., Ditra-type) between substrate and tile that absorbs movement so the subfloor can shift without cracking tile or grout. Standard under tile over wood subfloors.

Source: Wikipedia — Tile

  • Grout

    The material that fills and seals joints between tiles. Sanded, unsanded, and epoxy grouts differ in durability and stain resistance — ep…

  • Subfloor

    The structural sheet material (plywood or OSB) fastened over floor joists that everything else — underlayment and finish flooring — is bu…

  • Undermount Tub

    A tub mounted beneath a finished deck so the deck material laps the rim, similar to an undermount sink. A clean, premium deck-tub look.

  • Tub-to-Shower Conversion

    Removing a tub to install a larger walk-in shower. One of the most-requested bath remodels, driven by aging-in-place and the decline of t…

  • Universal Design

    Designing the bathroom to be usable by people of all ages and abilities without specialized adaptation — wider doors, curbless showers, c…

  • Tub Surround

    The waterproof wall finish around a tub — tile over backer, or solid acrylic/solid-surface panels. Panel surrounds install fast; tile is…

  • Vanity

    The bathroom cabinet that houses the sink and provides storage and counter space. The bath equivalent of the kitchen's base-cabinet run a…

  • Tub Filler

    The faucet that fills the tub — wall-mounted, deck-mounted, or floor-mounted. Floor-mounted fillers for freestanding tubs add significant…

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