Archetech Issue 36 2018 | Page 42

FROM KERDI TO COMPLETE SOLUTION SCHLÜTER-SYSTEMS IS A COMPANY WITH A CLEAR VISION TO INNOVATE AND CONTINUES TO DEVELOP SOLUTIONS TO ADD TO ITS RANGE OF PRODUCTS FOR THE PROTECTION OF TILE AND STONE. HERE WE SHOW YOU HOW ONE SIMPLE MEMBRANE INSPIRED AN ALL-ENCOMPASSING SOLUTION SPECIFIED IN PRESTIGIOUS PROJECTS ACROSS THE UK AND WORLDWIDE. INDUSTRY WISDOM EQUALS INDUSTRY LEADER In 1987, Schlüter introduced the world to KERDI, to satisfy the demands of waterproofing a tiled installation. A pliable waterproofing membrane for walls designed for the direct application of tile, KERDI is highly versatile and easy to manipulate: knowing first-hand the challenges that tilers faced, Schlüter endeavoured to find solutions to their problems. As the company grew, the pace of innovation accelerated—Schlüter had already developed a number of innovative products previous to KERDI, and a path of innovation was emerging. FROM WATERPROOF MEMBRANE TO BACKERBOARD In 2009, an analysis of the performance of backe rboards within the market led to the creation of Schlüter®-KERDI-BOARD, which took the tried and tested concept of KERDI and created a unique cement-free waterproof face affixed either side of an extruded hard foam panel, to form a multifunctional substrate board for wall areas. The introduction of KERDI-BOARD reduced the steps needed to create the CE marked waterproof substrate so vital for a wetroom or areas of high moisture, and provided a greener, dust-free alternative to cement-faced or plaster boards, consigning water-resistant boards to the past. Waterproofing membrane, Schlüter ® -KERDI-200, and electric underfloor heating system, Schlüter ® -DITRA-HEAT-E, can be used to form complete bonded waterproofing assemblies, simply by sealing matting joints. ONE MANUFACTURER EQUALS A CO-ORDINATED SOLUTION In the same year as KERDI-BOARD made its debut, Schlüter announced another game changer—the pre-formed trays of the Schlüter®-KERDI-SHOWER range, with Schlüter ® -KERDI-DRAIN, for point drains; and Schlüter ® -KERDI-LINE, for linear drains. For the first time, a complete wetroom solution could be created exclusively using Schlüter products, with the drains featuring pre-adhered collars of KERDI membrane to allow for secure connection of critical joints with the waterproofing system. The benefits provided with the use of only one manufacturer should not be underestimated—products are purposefully developed to complement and co-ordinate with an existing range, admin and troubleshooting are simplified, and warranties can be achieved from a single source. FROM TOTAL SYSTEM TO AUGMENTED SOLUTION Having mastered the art of total system development, Schlüter has further enhanced the design options available to specifiers, allowing for closer customisation and even unique branding. The trend-led finishes of the TRENDLINE range of wall profile finishes have introduced up-to-the-minute textured tones, which can be applied to blend with or create a striking contrast to the chosen tile or stone. The illuminated profiles of the LIPROTEC range are the latest exciting development for designers, allowing for the incorporation of mood, ambience, and even corporate colours into a room’s design.