Tile Contractors Specify Mapei Self-Leveling in Detroit
When the tile trade calls for Mapei Ultraplan or Novoplan, we source and install the exact product with the matched Mapei primer. No substitutions, no shortcuts. The slab gets prepped, primed, poured, and cured to Mapei spec so the tile installer's warranty stays intact. Free written estimate.
Tile installers specify Mapei self-leveling underlayment because the system warranty is clear, the product chemistry is proven, and the Mapei primer bonds the slab permanently. Ultraplan works for thin-to-moderate depths; Novoplan handles thicker applications and structural specs. The primer is not optional. A generic primer or no primer breaks the bond and voids the warranty.
We install Mapei SLU as the Mapei specialist. The substrate gets diamond-ground to profile, the matched Mapei primer is applied, the SLU is mixed and poured to manufacturer spec, and the cure is verified before handoff. If the project also needs Mapei waterproofing for moisture control, we coordinate that into the prep sequence. See our full Mapei product range for other applications.
If the spec calls for Ardex self-leveling instead, we install Ardex with the same rigor. Both are excellent systems; the tile contractor's preference and warranty path determine which one to use.
Recent work
Installation sequence
How Mapei SLU Gets Installed in Detroit
Assess and select product
We review the substrate condition, target depth, and the tile installer's spec to choose between Ultraplan and Novoplan. The finish-flooring contractor confirms the selection.
Grind and prime the slab
The concrete slab is diamond-ground to Mapei profile, cleaned of dust and contaminants, and the matched Mapei primer is rolled on for permanent adhesion.
Mix, pour, and level
Mapei SLU is mixed to the exact water ratio, poured across the floor, gauge-raked, and left to self-level. The working window is tight; we move fast to use it.
Cure and hand off
The slab cures to Mapei schedule, final flatness is checked against the tile spec, and the substrate is ready for the tile installer to begin their work.
Trade coordination
Respecting the Tile Contractor's Mapei Specification
When a tile contractor specifies Mapei, they are protecting their own warranty and the long-term performance of the tile install. We honor that spec completely. No substitutions, no generic primers, no cost-cutting. The substrate gets Mapei, period.
If the slab needs Mapei repair before the SLU pour, we use Mapei-compatible patching products. Our broader brand services include other Mapei systems for waterproofing and adhesive work.
Product selection, primer requirements, tile-trade warranty, 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, Detroit
★★★★★
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, Warren
★★★★★
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, Ann Arbor
★★★★★
They explained why the tile contractor's Mapei spec mattered for warranty path. Installed accordingly. Real awareness of trade coordination.
X. B6
Custom Builder, Sterling Heights
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