Up-stand seals are coming under close scrutiny due to a growing awareness if not a real concern amongst manufacturers and retailers that polymeric type shower tray up-stand seals can react with sealants used to seal the perimeter joint, typically between the wall tile and adjacent ledge.

The problem of reactive sealants is not new. BS6213 warns of a sealant's incompatibility with polymeric materials forming joint substrates and advises that consideration is given to preventing such materials making direct contact with reactive sealants.

The provision of a roll of PTFE tape with up-stand seals ultimately places the onus on the installer to solve the problem. Simply assuming all installers will co-operate with such a burden-sharing solution cannot be relied upon because the task of covering the exposed butyl adhesive between the ledge and EPDM up-stand with the PTFE tape can prolong the installation time dramatically.

Sealux also believe that providing PTFE tape for the polymeric butyl adhesive but not an equivalent sealant isolating solution for the adjacent polymeric up-stand falls short of full adherence to relevant BS6213 recommendations advising that polymeric joint substrate materials subject to contact with reactive sealants are isolated from reactive sealants.

Unlike other up-stand seals, Aquastrap rolls are now supplied with sealant isolating materials pre-applied on both the EPDM up-stand and butyl adhesive.

Aquastrap's unique design delivers the complete solution, not just an easier, superior and quicker installation method for installers, but a higher spec. end product for consumers that complies with BS6213 recommendations on substrate preparation.

While product research and development delayed the launch of Aquastrap, Sealux believe the wait was justified as evidenced by an innovative 'fit for purpose' product that is clearly superior to similar products on the market.

The Sealux portal has been transformed to allow an increasing traffic flow get instant access to the information required. The portal layout is simple to navigate with summary brand descriptions, data sheets and general information on movement joints and Codes of Practice clearly laid out and visible at a glance.