Building Standards and Sealux
Codes of Practice and Product Design
In line with the recommendations of recognised codes of practice and standards, Sealux Ltd. endeavour to adapt proven methods and mechanisms into their product design where advantageous for prolonged performance.
Sealux sealing systems are in most cases two part products wherein rigid and flexible strips are designed and supplied prepared and ready to accommodate the application of sealants therein – or thereon.
Consumer education remains a key focus of our business. The benchmarks we refer to in highlighting aspects of our product designs are extracts from relevant codes considered best practice in the field. Sealux do not refer to the codes as specifications or requirements that must be met, the codes are voluntary and offered in the context of the product supplied and task at hand.
Where Sealux do refer to such codes, it is specific and presented not just to promote the benefit of our products, but to allow specifiers and potential purchasers consider the merit of such codes and the benefit of compliance in light of the task at hand.
It should be understood that because Sealux sealing systems are two part products exclusively focused on sealing perpendicular joints in shower environments, aspects of our design may deviate from the stated codes. Where this occurs Sealux will justify that course of action in light of the stated recommendation.
The codes of practice and standards Sealux currently refer to are publications of the British Standards Codes of Practice and NHBC Standards as of 2010.
British Standard Code of Practice
Because Sealux sealing systems are combination products (strips and sealant) most frequently installed between a ledge or floor and adjacent walls in conjunction with tiles, Sealux refers to relevant extracts of BS5385 (a floor and wall tiling codes of practice) and BS6213 (selection of construction sealants guide).
NHBC Standards 2010
NHBC standards 2010 cover the issue of tiling to walls & floors under Chapter 8.2
NHBC require the design to consider and make provisions for interface joints between 2 different materials/substrates – If the interface will have movement then the provision of the joint should accommodate the expected actions and suitable materials used.
NHBC do not specify the sealant properties or even the requirement for sealant but an effective seal (which can accommodate the water resistance or performance intended) for the interface joint. This essentially leaves the requirement for the selection of suitable materials up to the designer or manufacturer.
Where applicable, the appropriate standards and codes of practices (CP’s) should be referred to. Manufacturers technical data and installation requirements can be considered acceptable for non-critical functions providing they would not compromise the requirements of the relevant CP’s or other standards that may have a greater requirement.