Modern building design places an emphasis on maximising useable space in smaller footprints, therefore design features such as open-concept bathrooms have become popular to extract maximum value from the space available. By removing a boxed in shower unit in exchange for a tiled shower, the space can become drastically more usable.

There are certain aspects to AS/NZS standards and the NZBC E3 that must be accommodated for during the design and install of a tiled shower. Ensuring that water is retained within the designated shower area is important, this will predominantly be controlled with the combination of walls, doors and fall in the floor towards an outlet.

shower tray tile over stainless drain waste channel grate

Most residential showers will be considered a ‘Type 1’ (according to AS 3740-2010; 3.13.5) with a frameless glass screen, shower curtain and/or waterstop hob entry controlling splash and surface water. Therefore, a minimum of 1:100 fall is required where a hob is present. A minimum of 1:80 fall is needed for all other shower areas. By designing a shower with a channel drain (typically running along the back wall under the showerhead), the installer will only need to screed a fall in one direction, this then improves the aesthetic finish and reduces the amount of work conducted by the tiler by avoiding crosscuts through the tiles towards a central point drain outlet. AS 3740 states “it is advisable to have either the screed drained or a membrane placed on the top of the screed to prevent retention in the screed beyond the water stop.”

New Zealand’s wide offering of waterproof membranes combined with Allproof’s drainage systems such as the Vision Shower Channel creates some excellent options to protect the structure of the building from moisture created within this area. For those who prefer the assurance of a shower tray/base being present, especially in bathrooms located in timber structures or multi-storey buildings, an Allproof stainless steel shower tray can be installed under the tiles creating an impermeable barrier directly under the wet area.

A tile over stainless shower tray would also be considered a “Preformed Shower Base” (AS 3740-2010; 3.6) needing to be sufficiently recessed into the wall and floor allowing waterproof membranes to be dressed onto the flange surface areas (textured to maximise bonding), it should also be supported to prevent distortion or cracking. Allproof have designed the tray to incorporate the fall outlined for Type 1 showers by utilising an engineered base. The tile over stainless tray provides options of a 1:80 (recommended for hob entry) or 1:50 (recommended for level entry) fall which satisfies NZBC E3 3.3.5 which looks to obtain a fall of 1:50 towards the shower drain. The tray has a channel drain built into the system with tile bar options designed to suit varying tile depths and weepage holes allowing subsurface moisture trapped by the stainless tray to track into the waste outlet.

shower tray tile over stainless drain waste channel grate waterproof membrane leak resistant proof

The Allproof preformed Tile over tray system makes tiled showers easy while providing peace of mind for installers by creating a system that accounts for the required falls, provides a reliable impermeable base, removes the need to screed, allows for direct stick tiles and flat floor framing. Tile Over Stainless Trays are custom made in New Zealand to project-specific measurements, a custom quote/order form can be downloaded from allproof.co.nz.

Since opening its doors Commercial Bay has been a key topic of interest in the A&D community earning it a position among the finalists for one of the industry’s most prestigious awards. With 300 metres of level threshold skirting the perimeter Warren and Mahoney along with Fletchers had to carefully select the correct supplier and product to cater for such a complex and varying application. NZBC E2 has set out strict criteria that level threshold drains must adhere to for performance and safety reasons. Due to the scale of commercial activity, foot traffic, plus the variety of joinery systems selected, the level threshold drain needed to be highly adaptable while maintaining the level of detail and aesthetic that Warren & Mahoney are renowned for.

Allproof Industries’ Perimeter Drain was selected as the ideal solution. Allproof manufacture drainage and passive fire systems on the North Shore of Auckland and specialise in custom stainless steel systems. The Perimeter Drain uses a polymer concrete L shaped channel with a variety of off the shelf and custom grate options. This system allows for varying joinery dimensions that step in and out overhanging the channel by adjusting the grate width for a clean channel line around the perimeter of the building. On Commercial Bay certain areas at secondary entrances have wider spans of grate to accommodate for the building line, the system needed to be engineered for load rating on these areas to cater for traffic that is specific to these entrances. Allproofs Wedge Wire grate was selected for its customisable features, excellent hydraulic performance and R11 slip rating.

The transition between the Sky Lobby and the roof top terrace uses a revolving door, Allproof were asked to create a custom stainless steel drainage channel to the exact radius of the door allowing for level entry onto the terrace. Allproof’s Threaded Leg system with wedge wire grate was ideal for this. Allproof used the specifications from the door supplier to laser cut a stainless template to the required radius, this template was then tested on site to ensure the correct fit. Allproof’s fabrication team then used the template to hand fabricate the system rolling each element of the grate to the exact diminishing radius before welding the components together creating the full system.

Allproof was also chosen for the drainage system running down the centre of the retail complex. The channel drain is installed as a podium set up with restricted depth due to the City Rail Link (CRL) line and station below the complex. A 75mm depth channel was therefore selected with the outlets directed into podium flanges below the surface. A heelproof cast iron grate for its durability, performance and aesthetics has been used, the characteristics of cast iron combined with high levels of foot traffic means that it will weather into the environment and blend with and enhance the laneway atmosphere the architecture creates.

By selecting a New Zealand manufacturer Commercial Bay significantly benefited from specialised knowledge in the NZ building code that Allproof were able to supply, along with a product range specifically designed for the local market and the ability to highly customise bespoke systems to the exact needs of the project.

Ensuring accessibility for all building occupants while strictly adhering to the New Zealand Building Code (NZBC) can be challenging. Thankfully systems exist on the market that have been designed specifically for the New Zealand market to address these challenges. Providing level threshold access to buildings is essential when catering to disabled and elderly occupants. NZBC E2/AS1 7.3.2 clearly outlines the requirements for protection against external moisture when designing level access. Allproof have designed, manufacture and supply multiple systems that address the key features set out in E2/AS1 7.3.2 and Figure 17B providing fully compliant solutions.

NZBC Clause E2 External Moisture states that a channel drainage system is required that complies to the below features:
i) the width to suit capacity in accordance with E1/AS1,
ii) a minimum depth of 150mm,
iii) a maximum length of 3700mm, and
iv) 1:200 minimum fall along length of channel towards a drainage outlet.

Grating over the channel that:
i) is supported independently of the door frame,
ii) is removable to allow access for cleaning,
iii) is specifically designed to accommodate imposed loads,
iv) has gaps sized to prevent the wheels of wheelchairs or mobility aids entering or being trapped, and
v) has a continuous gap of 12mm minimum from door frame and wall cladding.

The systems offered by Allproof comply with these requirements while catering for varying install scenarios, i.e. differing external surfaces and preexisting trenches. The Allproof Perimeter Drain is the most popular and versatile system in the offering. This channel drain consists of a two-sided polymer concrete channel supplied in 1m lengths with a stainless steel bracket secured to the channel and a choice of four grates to cater for specific needs and aesthetics.

The 200mm wide channel is installed against the building line prior to an external concrete pour. This reduces time spent boxing out and the number of pours required, thus becoming an economical option. Once the external surface has cured, the installer is able to screed a 1:200 fall into the channel base towards the outlets. The installer then fixes the brackets into the channel using the mounting points provided. The frame includes feet to support the grate “independently of the door frame” while maintaining a “continuous gap of 12mm minimum from door frame and wall cladding.” This system has been designed for easy on-site customisation so that it can follow the perimeter of the joinery and cladding maintaining a consistent 12mm gap where other systems on the market may not cater for this and result in varying gaps as the joinery and cladding step in and out.

On commercial projects, Allproof recommends grate lockdowns. These are easily removable for regular cleaning and maintenance. The system is designed for pedestrian traffic, however, Allproof has custom designs that allow for vehicle traffic should the need exist. All grates have been designed to be wheelchair friendly and heel-proof.

Allproof’s Perimeter Drain has an excellent in-service history, it has been selected and installed in a wide variety of residential and high profile projects including Commercial Bay, the B:Hive at Smales Farm, AUT, King’s School Remuera and Archibald & Shorter North Shore Jaguar and Land Rover showroom.

polymer concrete perimeter drain external level threshold product thumbnail

Perimeter Drain

Bolted Bracket level threshold system channel drain entrances

Bolted Bracket

Sourcing locally manufactured products dramatically improves the carbon footprint of any construction project, this is then compounded when factoring in the use of recycled materials. Allproof Industries mould their Domestic Channel and Pits in New Zealand and do so from 100% recycled Polypropylene plastic.

Allproof pride themselves on supplying premium products to the plumbing and drainage industry. When designing, planning and developing products Allproof will explore opportunities to use responsible processes and materials. Allproof’s Domestic channel and pits are moulded at their factory on the North Shore of Auckland using locally sourced (where possible) recycled Polypropylene (PP) material. This plastic is ideal for this product range and is also used in various other products in the Allproof catalogue because of its responsible sourcing and physical characteristics. PP is tough with good impact resistance, chemically resistant and when combined with UV additive it can withstand all of New Zealand’s conditions.

Allproof are undertaking various other initiatives to reduce the impact of product manufacturing on New Zealand’s environment and do their part for sustainability. These initiatives include removing heavy metals from waste water through an approved filtration system, internal recycling of products that don’t pass a rigorous Quality Assurance process (re-grinding of plastic injection moulded products). Allproof is also BEP (Best Environmental Practice) certified for their PVC manufacturing as per AS/NZS 1260:2017.

The BRANZ website explains that: “BRANZ Appraisals are robust, in-depth independent evaluations for building products and systems to be deemed fit for purpose and Building Code compliant.”

Allproof Passive Fire Products covered in the appraisal are:

Low Profile Fire Collars
Drop-in Fire Collars
Cast-in Fire Collars
Pipe Wraps

The BRANZ appraisal evaluates the product systems, testing methods, test performance, identification and supporting literature against the below Clauses from the NZBC:

Clause B2 DURABILITY: Performance B2.3.1 (b) 15 years and B2.3.2. Allproof Passive Fire Protection Products meet these requirements.
Clause C3 FIRE AFFECTING AREAS BEYOND THE FIRE SOURCE: Performance C3.6. Allproof Passive Fire Protection Products will contribute to meeting this requirement.
Clause F2 HAZARDOUS BUILDING MATERIALS: Performance F2.3.1. Allproof Passive Fire Protection Products meet this requirement and will not present a health hazard to people.

Allproof are pleased to confirm that their Passive Fire Protection product range meets and exceeds the requirements set out in the NZBC. This assessment can give installers, specifiers, Regulatory Bodies and the building occupiers confidence in the selection, consent process and reliance on Allproof Industries Passive Fire Protection Products.

Allproof’s Passive Fire Protection BRANZ appraisal number is 1088. Click here to view the appraisal

Allproof’s extensive range of tested products cover a wide scope of real-world install scenarios. The latest literature published by Allproof provides new test results on Hebel walls, Speedpanel walls and plasterboard ceilings. The update also outlines hollow-core floor slab installation information.

Allproof use independent IANZ accredited fire testing laboratories to ensure their products meet performance requirements and ultimately save lives. By fully producing all the components, including Allproof’s advanced intumescent material, at their manufacturing facility on the North Shore of Auckland, Allproof have complete control over the quality of the product and are able to react quickly to demand. This coupled with their in-house design and development team enables Allproof to continuously develop their product range with insights from the industry to provide products for the ever-advancing construction processes used in New Zealand.

Allproof’s passive fire protection range is widely utilised by the New Zealand construction industry, including in projects such as the Westfield Malln in Newmarket, Commercial Bay and Ryman facilities including the prominent Tropicana development that’s currently under construction.

Walk-in showers have become a popular choice for the modern contemporary bathroom. These showers allow an open look utilising the available space in a bathroom while maintaining an aesthetic feel with continuous tiled walls and floor. To achieve this look, certain factors regarding drainage need to be planned for when designing the space.
Allproof Industries manufacture a range of shower drain kits designed specifically for these scenarios. The stainless steel Vision shower channel is Allproof’s most popular product. The Vision channel is available with a choice of five grate designs off the shelf in 800, 900, 1000 or 1200mm lengths. The Vision channel can also be customised specifically to a project by adjusting variables such as length, outlet position and finish with an electroplated or powder coated finish. Allproof also offer an extensive range of point drain options with the Elegance Range. This is a series of stainless steel grates which create a sleek, elegant point drain. All kits come complete with Allproof leak control flange, floor waste gully and pipe riser.
These products can be used individually or together within the same space — their designs and materials work together to complement each other. A design could be created where a glass panel separates a walk-in shower with a showerhead on one side of the panel and floating vanity on the other. A tile-insert Vision channel manufactured to a custom length can be installed under the showerhead running the width of the shower, ending flush against the glass panel with a tile-insert Invisi Drain installed under the vanity. This provides space with drainage, while also maintaining a consistent theme with the product selection and minimises the visual impact of drainage systems by using the tile insert products.
The Vision Series can also be used as a threshold drain separating the shower from the rest of the bathroom, minimising any surface water escaping the walk-in shower area and removing the need for a hob entry if required.
When installing a central point drain, extra angled cuts may need to be made in the tiles directing the fall towards the outlet from all directions. The Vision shower channel can be installed against one wall so that the floor is only required to slope in one direction, eliminating the need for extra cuts diagonally across tiles. This creates a visually superior finish to a tiled floor.
Specifications for these systems are available from Masterspec and technical documents along with CAD file downloads are provided on the product listings of this website.

 



 

Walk in tiled showers have become a very popular bathroom feature, but with such extreme moisture in one area, how can designers ensure they are completely watertight?
Allproof Industries have developed a wide range of products, providing high-quality NZ made drainage systems that perfectly integrate with waterproofing systems. These drainage products have been developed by Allproof’s in-house design and development team to provide the correct capacity, improved install process, maintenance and combine with other products in the Allproof catalogue and on the market. These features ensure excellent protection from leaks and high drainage performance.
The most popular drainage and waterproofing system is Allproof’s Vision Shower Channel Series. This product works much like a point drain, but can be set up as a threshold channel or flush against a wall. This product provides a highly sought after aesthetic finish with off-the-shelf sizes and custom made lengths available, all with a choice of five grates.
The system utilises a specially designed VF80 flange that is recessed flush into the base of a channel created on site. The waterproofing membrane is then dressed into the recess and onto the flange, completely tanking the wet area.
The flange has been designed to provide a high-quality surface for bonding the waterproof membrane and ensures that all subsurface moisture collected by the waterproof membrane is directed into the outlet. The stainless steel channel is set into the recess, leveled and secured using a porous compound before being tiled up against with a bead of silicon applied between the tile and channel edge.
Alternatively Allproof also offer the Elegance series, which is a stainless steel point drain available with 8 different grate designs or a tile insert
‘Invisible’ grate. These are available as tile waste kits off the shelf with a Leak Control flange or Cyclone Flange and floor waste gully. The point
drain can be located in any desired location, usually in the centre of the walk in shower under the shower head.
Like the Vision Series the Leak Control flange is rebated into the floor with a fall being screeded towards it, the waterproof membrane is then applied to the flange surface creating a water tight area. The tiles are then installed and spigot adjusted or cut to the correct height supporting the Elegance grate with a small bead of silicon applied around it.




RELATED PRODUCTS

Melbourne’s recently completed South Wharf Precinct showcases an excellent example of Australian architecture. This more than A$200 million project includes a 20-storey four-star Novotel positioned over a six-storey 1,150 space multi-level carpark designed by Woods Bagot and NH Architecture.

When designing such a project great attention to detail must be applied to all factors, and located directly outside the entrance to the hotel is Allproof Polymer Concrete channel strip drain. Allproof worked with the project manager at Wilson Plumbing & Drainage to design the best drainage system for the installation scenario.

One of the key factors that had to be taken into account is the high foot traffic of the area, the channel drain and grate needs to be durable and not cause any hazards. Allproof’s Polymer Concrete channel drain made an excellent choice, the range utilises polymers to supplement cement as the binder material, this creates a durable product that is excellent for commercial linear drainage installation. Allproof recommended the stainless steel wedge wire grate for such high foot traffic, the combined grate and channel drain system has a load rating for pedestrian class A*. The wedge wire grate is also classified as heelproof with a slip resistance classification of R11** ensuring it does not present a trip or slip hazard.

The drainage system is located on a podium area above the multi-story carpark. Allproof’s 75mm deep Polymer Concrete channel was selected for its low profile and high capacity of stormwater drainage. Allproof’s wedge wire grate has a large open area (47%) providing an outstanding surface drainage system able to cope with the surface area in Melbourne’s challenging weather systems.

Allproof’s sleek design and excellent workmanship have created an aesthetically appealing system that has been well designed to cope with all factors in a commercial project.

Selecting a fully compliant level threshold drainage solution is easy with the range of Allproof products available to the market, however some applications can present more of a challenge.

Car showrooms present a tricky scenario; the showroom needs to be presentable with high quality flooring and all the fittings expected when presenting luxury consumer items. However, the vehicles need to be regularly moved between the external forecourt and internal showroom with large doors creating an indoor-outdoor flow. These large openings combined with load class requirements mean that a standard E2 compliant threshold drainage system that has been designed for foot traffic may not be up to the task, and channel systems designed for heavier load requirements are not compliant due to level threshold details such as the required 12mm drip-line along the joinery. Factor in large sliding doors with exposed mechanical runners and a fully level threshold can become a complex task.

Thankfully Wingate Architecture contacted Allproof early on in the process and developed the perfect solution.

Allproof were engaged during the planning phase of Archibald & Shorter’s latest showroom in Wairau Road, North Shore Auckland. Once given a brief, Allproof developed a custom solution utilising components from one of their most popular products, the Perimeter Drain. Allproof created a heavy duty supporting system with the Perimeter Drain preformed channel, combined with a slip resistant stainless steel grate load tested to AS3996. This provided an easy to install, low maintenance fully compliant solution. Allproof also custom manufactured a removable stainless steel cover to hide and protect the mechanical door sliders, providing a seamless entry into the building spanning over four metres. This system creates an aesthetic architectural design, allowing wide openings and large walls of glass joinery to display a stunning collection of vehicles.
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