From waterproofing membranes to pre-formed trays, Schlüter-Systems’ material-first approach delivers reliability where it counts – in the most moisture-prone areas of any build…
It is widely known that plasterboard and timber are extremely susceptible to any amount of moisture seeping through wall tiling, particularly at vulnerable interfaces around the edge of the bath or shower tray. While sealants and trims offer limited protection, a true gamechanger arrived in 1987 when Schlüter-Systems introduced its high-performance KERDI membrane, enabling effective waterproofing of walls and floors while also relieving stress within the substrate build-up.
The soft, strong polyethylene membrane provides excellent crack-bridging as well as waterproofing performance, and was complemented by the development of KERDI-BOARD which is widely used as a tileable backerboard, along with a comprehensive range of accessories which define Schlüter-Systems as a dependable one-stop shop for everything needed to create a stylish and fully functioning wet area.
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Integrated approach to installations
A key 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 damp penetration; and also that the water should 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.
Accordingly, in developing a low height system solution for drainage such as the Schlüter-KERDI-LINE G3 drain, the company has worked closely with designers and architects to deliver the best outcomes for all concerned.
The Schlüter-KERDI-LINE-G3 is a horizontal linear stainless-steel drainage channel which can be installed with a preformed shower tray, screeded floor or suspended timber floor. Importantly it 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.
Image credit: Schlüter-Systems
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. Together with the G3 drain, 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 gradient typical of competitors, it is fully compliant with BS EN 5385.
The drain and shower tray 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. And if the property owner wishes to introduce some added comfort, they can also opt for the inclusion of underfloor heating. In fact, the Schlüter –DITRA-HEAT-DUO is another addition to the wider range which presents multiple benefits including an integral uncoupling layer, rapid heat up with thermostatic control and impact sound reduction.
A key feature of Schlüter’s approach is the compatibility of all components to ensure effective moisture protection and stress management within the substrate. The KERDI-LINE-G3 linear drain, which meets BS EN 1253 standards, and the low profile shower tray from the KERDI-SHOWER-LTS range together provide a practical, level-access solution ideal for modern installations. Supporting natural stone and large-format tiles, and compatible with underfloor heating systems like DITRA-HEAT-DUO, Schlüter-Systems delivers a complete, reliable toolkit for bathroom design and construction.
Schlüter-Systems is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Main image credit: Schlüter-Systems
