When your tile contractor specifies Mapei, we install Mapei. Ultraplan and Novoplan are the self-leveling underlayments tile trades trust for warranty and performance. We source the matched Mapei primer, execute the pour to Mapei tolerances, and hand off a substrate ready for tile. No substitutions, no shortcuts. Call for a free written estimate.
Tile installers request Mapei self-leveling underlayment because the system warranty path is clear and the product chemistry is proven. Ultraplan works for thin-to-moderate depth applications; Novoplan handles thicker pours and structural-spec conditions. The Mapei primer bonds the SLU to the substrate; using anything else breaks the warranty.
We install Mapei SLU with the matched primer, the right product for your depth, and the cure schedule that gets the slab ready for tile. If your project also needs Mapei waterproofing for wet zones, we coordinate both. See our full Mapei product range for other substrate and repair needs.
If the spec calls for Ardex self-leveling instead, we install Ardex to the same standard. 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
Assess substrate and product fit
We measure the existing slab, identify high spots and low spots, and confirm with the tile installer which Mapei product (Ultraplan or Novoplan) and target depth make sense for the project.
Grind and prime the slab
The concrete surface is diamond-ground to Mapei profile, dust and contaminants removed, and the matched Mapei primer rolled on to ensure permanent bond between slab and SLU.
Mix, pour, and level
Mapei SLU is mixed to exact water ratio, poured across the floor, and allowed to self-level. The working window is tight; we move the pour quickly to use the material before it sets.
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 contractor to begin their work.
Warranty and coordination
Respecting the Tile Trade's Mapei Spec
When a tile contractor puts Mapei in the spec, they are protecting their own warranty and the long-term performance of the tile install. We honor that spec by sourcing Mapei, installing Mapei, and using the matched primer. The tile trade gets the substrate they expect and the warranty path stays intact.
If substrate repair is needed before the SLU pour, we use Mapei repair products to keep the system compatible. Explore our other brand specialties for additional concrete and flooring services.
Product selection, primer requirements, tile coordination, 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, Boston
★★★★★
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, Cambridge
★★★★★
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, Somerville
★★★★★
They explained why the tile contractor's Mapei spec mattered for warranty path. Installed accordingly. Real awareness of trade coordination.
X. B6
Custom Builder, Quincy
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