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May 2025                 

 Schlüter-Systems' KERDI range for a complete waterproofing system

KERDI waterproofing, KERDI-LINE drain and shower board with timber floor

Recent technical guidance(9.2/06) from the NHBCemphasises the importance of maintaining the structural integrity of a building through effective waterproofing.

Schlüter-Systems'product innovations have always guaranteed that bathrooms, wetrooms and steam rooms are properly waterproofed; it is the company's mission after all. The high performanceSchlüter-KERDI membranewas developed in the 1980's for bonded waterproofing assemblies with ceramic tile and natural stone coverings. It is a crack-bridging waterproofing membrane of soft polyethylene with a special fleece fabric laminated on both sides for effective anchoring in the tile adhesive. Fast-forward almost four decades and a range of complementary products has been developed for use in conjunction with the KERDI-membrane, definingSchlüter-Systemsas a dependable one-stop shop for everything needed to create a stylish and fully functioning wet environment. Such products from the KERDI range, including waterproofing sealing bands like KERDI-TS, pipe collars, prefabricated corner pieces, are all designed to make waterproofing a wet area a breeze, all whilst forming a complete system that leaves no gap exposed to the elements, preventing leaks. As an alternative to the waterproofing membrane, KERDI, which is designed to add waterproofing to an existing background, which is even, flat and load bearing, the company's BBA Agrément-certifiedtile backerboard,KERDI-BOARDoffers a solution as a prefabricated, waterproof substrate with multiple uses; from a fully waterproofed wall that can be directly tiled onto, or to create finishing touches such as a bench or shelving.

Sophie Sutherland, Marketing Manager at Schlüter-Systems, says, "Akey aspect to successfully waterproofing a bathroom or similar setting is for the various elements to be fully compatible to create a continuous line of defence or barrier against water penetration; the water should also be effectively removed from the area into the drainage system. In addition, the system must be straightforward to install and able to cope with any stresses resulting from routine usage or movement in the substrate. This holistic approach ensures that no weak points are left exposed, which could otherwise lead to costly water damage over time."

Accordingly, in developing theSchlüter-KERDI-LINErange of products, such as theSchlüter-KERDI-LINE G3drain, the company worked closely with architects to ensure the solutions met both technical requirements and aesthetic expectations and deliver the best outcomes for all concerned. The end result was a low height shower drain that can handle the complexities of different projects, making it an ideal choice for modern design environments where performance and appearance go hand in hand.

The Schlüter-KERDI-LINE-G3 is a horizontal outlet linear drain which is usually installed with a preformed shower tray into a screeded floor or suspended timber floor. Importantly, it too has been recognised with a BBA Agrément certificate, and complies with BS EN 1253, providing a 50mm water seal and anti-blockage protection based on the industry recognised 8mm ball bearing test. The drain is available in lengths from 500-1200 mm with central, offset, and dual outlets and is suitable for perimeter or intermediate installation. As is standard for Schlüter linear drains, it also comes with a pre-adhered collar of Schlüter- KERDI membrane to allow for reliable connection to the bonded waterproof assembly.

While the G3 drain has an overall height of just 78mm, to facilitate a suitably shallow depth to the overall installation, the logical next step was to introduce a compatible low-profile shower tray, offering flush transition for level access. Therefore, in 2020 the Schlüter-KERDI-SHOWER-LTS range of shower trays was unveiled, featuring a preformed slope as a way of creating consistent falls on the floor of tiled showers. The ergonomically designed tray provides a low-height, simple solution. While its fall of 1 in 80 is significantly less than the 1 in 50 gradients typical of competitors, it is fully compliant with BS EN 5385.

The shower trays and drain along with the rest of the Schlüter-KERDI range have been developed to accept a full selection of natural stone finishes as well as conventional and large format floor tiles between six and 20mm thick. For added luxury, and to introduce comfort, as many high-end hotels or residential projects require, Schlüter-DITRA-HEAT-DUOprovides surface heating for a warm underfoot feeling. DITRA-HEAT-DUO is multifaceted, providing uncoupling, sound insulation and a quicker heat-up response time, where the heat is transferred directly to the covering above due to the fleece backing.

For further information, call01530 813396or visithttps://www.schluter.co.uk/

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With Compliments:
Taylor Alden
media@tayloralden.co.uk