Understanding Load Classes for Linear Drainage in Commercial and Residential Settings

Linear channel drainage systems offer an efficient and aesthetically clean solution for managing surface water across large, hardscaped areas—such as laneways, paved forecourts, and garage entrances. However, when specifying a system, understanding the application environment and referencing the correct load class under AS 3996 is essential to ensuring performance and long-term durability.

In commercial environments, the drainage system must often accommodate not only pedestrian and light vehicular traffic but also heavy-duty vehicles such as delivery trucks, waste collection units, or forklifts. Selecting a channel drain based on correct AS 3996 load class ratings and ensuring appropriate concrete encasement around the channel body are key to the system’s integrity and compliance.

Understanding AS 3996 Load Classes
AS 3996 sets out the classification of load ratings for access covers and grates. These range from Class A (pedestrian-only use) to Class E (heavy commercial vehicles with wheel loads up to 13,700kg). In residential environments, the typical requirement is Class B, suitable for cars and light utilities (2,670kg wheel loads). By contrast, commercial or industrial sites may require Class C to E ratings, depending on use.

Equally important is the concrete encasement surrounding the channel. Allproof recommends a minimum of 100mm concrete surround for Class A systems, increasing to 200mm for Class E. In structural slabs, this trenching must often be reviewed and approved by an engineer to ensure it doesn’t compromise the integrity of the surrounding concrete.

Matching Channel Drains to Real-World Applications
The following project-based scenarios illustrate how AS 3996 influences channel drain selection in both residential and commercial environments.

Scenario A: Pedestrian-Friendly Public Forecourt
Outside an office complex or communal public area, drainage systems must safely handle both foot traffic and the occasional service or maintenance vehicle.

Allproof’s Commercial Channel paired with a Wedge Wire grate is ideal here. The Wedge Wire option is:

• Class B load rated, accommodating light vehicles,
• R11 slip-resistant (AS 4586),
• Heelproof (apertures under 8mm),
• Resistant to bicycle tyre penetration (AS 3996).

Lockdown mechanisms can be employed to prevent grate movement and deter theft—both common issues in open public zones. For urban applications near Australian coastal cities, such as Sydney or Brisbane, the 316 stainless steel construction ensures high resistance to corrosion in marine environments and spray zones.

Scenario B: Commercial Loading Dock
For heavy vehicle access areas, such as a shopping centre’s loading bay, robust drainage infrastructure is non-negotiable.

A 200mm clear opening Polymer Concrete (PC) channel with a cast iron grate is the recommended solution. The cast iron option is Class E load rated with a suitable 200mm concrete encasement, engineered to resist the high dynamic loads from reversing trucks or forklifts.

Cast iron’s natural vibration dampening also reduces concrete stress fractures. To prevent lateral movement and clanking under weight, grate lockdowns are critical.

Additionally, Polymer Concrete channels offer:

• Exceptional chemical resistance,
• Low permeability,
• High compressive strength,

Making them particularly suited to industrial or logistics-based facilities.

Scenario C: Residential Garage with Internal Entry
At the residential scale, drainage at a garage threshold requires aesthetic sensitivity alongside functional performance.

Allproof’s Domestic Channel, manufactured from 100% recycled plastic, offers an economical and sustainable solution designed specifically for Class B loading. However, in situations where heavier vehicles are anticipated—or a more premium finish is required—a 100mm clear opening Polymer Concrete channel with a plastic or stainless steel grate is preferable.

Key considerations include:

• Maintaining a 100mm concrete surround,
• Ensuring the channel is set back from the garage slab to avoid compromising the slab edge,
• Incorporating a slight grade change or ramp to direct stormwater into the drain and away from the dwelling entrance.

The use of a tile insert grate or minimalist stainless finish helps retain a contemporary appearance consistent with modern architectural detailing.

Final Considerations
Specifying a channel drain system should never be a one-size-fits-all decision. Each project must be assessed for:

• Expected vehicle loadings,
• Drainage performance requirements,
• Material compatibility,
• Environmental conditions, and
• Installation methodology, including embedment and slab interaction.

By referencing AS 3996 and working with suppliers experienced in both compliance and construction realities, designers and contractors can deliver drainage solutions that perform under pressure—whether in a CBD loading dock or a suburban driveway.

Article produced for Plumbing Connection Summer 2022 issue.

A large new property development in inner-suburban Melbourne features individually measured shower drainage channels, removing many of the unsightly variations seen with standardised fittings, while still adhering to tight installation schedules.

Victoria & Vine is a New York-inspired development in Collingwood, Melbourne, designed by Cox Architecture and constructed by Hickory. The project consists of 241 apartments, including a $7 million penthouse with access to a health club, infinity pool, rooftop lounge, co-working space and business lounge. The development is a blend of nine individual buildings with a combined 200m street frontage, consisting of 11 retail spaces, including food and beverage offerings. This multi-tiered development uses a variety of materials, including reclaimed brick, glazing and pre-cast panels, to emulate New York’s Meatpacking District, referencing the iconic Collingwood Foy and Gibson warehouse.

As a premium development, product selections need to reflect the quality of the entire project. Ensuring the drainage requirements of all bathrooms within the 241 apartments are perfectly met on both an aesthetic and performance level requires attention due to the high-detail specifications within this project. Another important element that needed to be considered was the overall service and production schedule, as it needed to fit into this exceptionally tight construction timeline.

Each drainage installation is site-specific while providing the efficiencies of high-volume production.

Individual Attention
In all construction projects, there are minor variations. Rooms are rarely laid out within 0.5mm of the exact planned dimensions—doing so would be near impossible just to allow for the perfect fit of an off-the-shelf product, such as a shower channel. Even if this is achieved, the designer would have to detail the exact finished dimensions of the room at the detailing stage. Wall build-up of linings, membrane, tiles and adhesives would have to be determined perfectly to avoid a huge makeup of silicone, or requiring the tiler to squeeze in a channel that is made too large. This will ruin the aesthetic of the shower channel and the quality of the overall room finish.

The logical solution is to select a supplier that can fabricate the channels perfectly to suit the area in each individual shower. This provides the modern appeal of a wall-to-wall channel while navigating the challenges of making an off-the-shelf product fit.

Another consideration would be the location of the outlet. In large multi-level projects, there are often structural elements or other services preventing a channel from having a centre outlet. Selecting a custom channel allows for the outlet to be located at a point where a floor waste gully can be installed for ease of piping out, or to suit pre-installed passive fire protection. Products will often need to be made to measure on projects that prioritise a high-end finish.

Made to Measure
Cox Architects and Hickory are well-established companies with a wealth of high-end projects in their portfolios. Experience has given them a grounded perspective on how product and supplier selections can add value to project processes, with service and quality ranked highly. Hickory will review products and share information across their site managers, allowing for suppliers who provide excellent service to be used repeatedly throughout future projects.

This was a key factor in Cox Architecture and Hickory’s selection of Allproof Vision shower channels. Cox Architecture and Hickory have “been dealing with Allproof for a long time and it made sense to use them again, especially with the service we get,” said Yianni Psihogos, Project Coordinator at Hickory.

Allproof Vision shower channels are manufactured from high-grade stainless steel in off-the-shelf and custom sizes. The channel comes with a VF80 puddle flange which is designed to fit within a trench created in the subfloor. Waterproofing is dressed into the puddle flange as per AS 3740-2010 Figure 3.9, with the channel installed over the membrane; the channel’s outlet is directed into the drainage flange.

There are some key benefits to this method. The surface area of the membrane adhered to the flange is greatly reduced over a channel with an integrated flange. This method also allows for the puddle flange to be installed prior to waterproofing, allowing all other trades to complete their role without additional delays.

The tiler needs to leave a reveal of 80mm, plus allowance for silicone, where the channel is to be located. Once ready, measurements are to be taken for the channel length and outlet location and sent to Allproof. Upon delivery, it just needs dropping into place on a bed of levelling compound with a bead of silicone around the tiles and channel edge.

The tiled floor and channel will catch surface water, and the membrane will pick up any subsurface water that is able to track through the grout. The membrane then directs sub-surface water towards the outlet through falls outlined in AS 3740-2010 clause 3.4.

Should a channel with an integrated flange be selected, this would mean other trades could be held up by the production time of custom-length channels for each room, as waterproofing needs to be applied to the channel itself.

Rigorous Quality Control
Upon being selected, Allproof provided all required installation details along with product training and technical documentation. Almost 400 shower channels were supplied in phases. Once Hickory completed the tiling in a sequence of rooms, they took measurements and sent them to Allproof.

Allproof manufactured the channels to these measurements, thoroughly checked them through a rigorous QA process before clearly labelling each channel with its room number/reference and delivering them to site for installation.

Victoria & Vine opted for a wall-to-wall channel; however, the above benefits would also apply to stock channels, with the additional advantage of removing lead times and reducing site measures. A solution could be to pull the channel off the side walls, allowing for floor tiling either side (potentially 50mm). This means a channel can be ordered well in advance, as installers aren’t reliant on getting the final tile-to-tile measurement.

Additional economy can be found in utilising stock or standard sizes. Victoria & Vine had a specific aesthetic they were looking to achieve. One option to accomplish a modern shower design using a stock channel would be using the tile insert grate. This allows the channel to blend in with the surrounding floor tiles and becomes a very discreet drainage solution.

The benefit of selecting an established drainage supplier with standardised products over smaller custom fabrication shops is being able to draw on tried and tested solutions. A drainage manufacturer such as Allproof will hold stock in standard sizes and have the production techniques to ensure supply through busy periods of demand.

Additionally, drainage manufacturers understand the National Construction Code (NCC), AS/NZS Standards, installation methods and compatible systems. By selecting suppliers that specialise in specific products, installers can rest assured that the product they receive will be fully compliant, tested to all applicable standards, and suitable for use with robust warranties.

Australia’s journey to sustainability spotlights single-use plastic packaging, a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in the plastic industry. This article unveils the impactful process of recycling Polypropylene (PP) plastics, spotlighting local initiatives, Allproof’s sustainable product range, and their integration of clean energy—a collectively reshaped approach to plastic waste management.

New Zealand’s Sustainable Plastic Recycling

Annually, New Zealand actively recycles 45,000 tonnes of plastic, with 55% sourced from households through kerbside waste services. Recently, the New Zealand government invested $124 million in local recycling infrastructure, enhancing our environmental impact and industry growth.

Allproof’s Innovative Recycling Process

Single-use PP plastic, including ice cream tubs and takeaway containers, is collected from kerbside waste bins nationwide. These recyclables undergo meticulous sorting and bailing before being cleaned, chipped, and transformed into pellets using extrusion machines at the next processing facility. Allproof utilises these pellets to manufacture an extensive range of drainage and passive fire protection products.

Sustainable Impact of Allproof’s Products and Clean Energy Initiatives

Allproof’s Domestic Channel (DC), Commercial Channel (CC), round and square pits, and cast-in fire collars, all manufactured from 100% recycled plastic, prevent over 12 tonnes of plastic from entering landfills monthly. Installed for longevity, these products can match the lifespan of the buildings themselves.

Moreover, Allproof actively uses solar energy to power their injection moulding machines. The 449 solar panels on their main production facility’s roof supply 50% of energy needs. Generating an average of 750 kWh per day (exceeding 1000 kWh in summer), this clean energy source powers an equivalent of 59 average homes in Victoria, saving an additional 50 tonnes of CO2 annually. This commitment further reduces the carbon footprint of Allproof’s recycled drainage and passive fire products.

Products Made from 100% Recycled Plastic:

Effective water management in both residential and commercial construction projects depends heavily on selecting the right surface water drainage solution. From ensuring compliance with Australian Standards to choosing materials that align with environmental goals, surface drainage systems must be tailored to their specific application, surroundings, and long-term demands.

This article outlines five core considerations that architects, engineers, and specifiers should prioritise when selecting surface drains, drawing on Allproof’s advanced drainage technologies and proven performance across Australian projects.

1. Application and Installation Environment
The first factor to assess is the intended installation environment. Whether the project is a residential courtyard, a high-traffic commercial forecourt, or a landscaped podium deck, each requires a drainage system suited to both the topography and anticipated load.

For example, if the site’s surface drains to a centralised low point, a stormwater pit or sump system may offer the most effective capture. However, in areas with a consistent fall in one direction, a linear channel drain, such as Allproof’s Polymer Concrete (PC) Channel, is typically more efficient.

Additional elements like adjoining systems or architectural features also influence product selection. Where door or window joinery incorporates drainage under the sill, a traditional three-sided channel might obstruct water flow. In such cases, Allproof’s Perimeter Drain provides an elegant and unobtrusive solution, enabling seamless drainage while maintaining compliance with level threshold design.

2. Hydraulic Performance and Flow Capacity
Hydraulics play a defining role in effective surface water drainage. It’s not just about size, it’s about performance under pressure. A steep driveway or sloped concrete apron may overwhelm narrow-profile slot drains, especially during periods of high rainfall. In these cases, a wider channel with a high-capacity grate, such as a cast iron cover on a sloped PC system, provides greater catchment and flow capacity.

Grate design also influences performance. While larger open areas allow greater flow, smaller apertures, though often required for safety, can be prone to blockage. It’s critical to match the drainage system to the hydraulic demands of the site while factoring in maintenance expectations.

3. Traffic Loads and Safety Compliance
The chosen drainage system must also stand up to the demands of pedestrian and vehicular traffic, which means selecting products rated under AS3996 Load Class standards.

For public walkways, parks, or urban spaces, slip resistance becomes essential. Grates used in pedestrian zones should meet AS4586 for slip resistance and feature heelproof designs with apertures less than 8mm, ensuring safety for all users.

Driveways, loading zones, and vehicle crossings demand higher load ratings. Allproof offers robust grates manufactured to suit these environments without sacrificing design appeal.

4. Environmental Durability
Australia’s diverse climates, from coastal zones to inland arid regions, demand drainage products that are both resilient and durable.

Material selection is crucial. In marine or coastal environments, 316-grade stainless steel is recommended for its corrosion resistance. For added protection, electropolishing is available, enhancing longevity and appearance.

Elsewhere, cast iron grates are often selected for their strength and natural weathering properties. As they oxidise, cast iron develops a stable patina that doesn’t compromise structural integrity. Alternatively, glass-filled nylon and polypropylene grates retain their clean black finish and offer corrosion resistance suitable for general applications.

5. Sustainability and Responsible Manufacturing
In today’s construction landscape, sustainability is no longer a secondary consideration; it is central to material selection.

Allproof leads the way in eco-conscious manufacturing by producing its plastic channels, pits, and fittings from 100% recycled polypropylene. These products not only meet performance and compliance standards but also contribute directly to the circular economy, reducing reliance on virgin plastics.

Further advancing their environmental credentials, Allproof’s main manufacturing facility is powered by solar energy, with more than 50% of its daily power needs supplied by renewable solar generation. This commitment ensures that the products you specify contribute to a greener built environment, without compromise.

The Right Surface Drain Makes All the Difference
Selecting the right surface drainage system is about more than just managing water, it’s about aligning performance, compliance, design, and sustainability with the long-term needs of the building. From material durability and hydraulic efficiency to safe, sustainable design, Allproof’s comprehensive product range is engineered to meet the complex demands of modern Australian construction.

For tailored advice or product specifications, consult directly with Allproof’s technical team or explore detailed listings online.

As space becomes more valuable in urban developments across Australia, architects and designers are rethinking how everyday utility areas, like the laundry, are incorporated into compact footprints. In many modern apartments, traditional laundry rooms with full-size tubs are no longer viable, forcing project teams to get creative with space-saving solutions.

Enter the Allproof Laundry Outlet Box, a clever innovation designed to streamline washing machine installations while reclaiming valuable floor area.

Why Space Matters in Modern Apartment Design
From Sydney to Melbourne and beyond, high-density housing is reshaping how we think about internal layouts. Floor plans are tighter, and every millimetre counts. Where laundry areas once had full tubs, benchtops and separate cupboards, they are now often tucked into alcoves, hallways, or even behind bi-fold doors.

However, traditional plumbing setups using exposed standpipes and surface-mounted taps can eat into this precious space. Protruding hardware not only makes appliance installation awkward, but it also poses risks: washing machine standpipes can be knocked, causing leaks or damage to wall linings and flooring.

The Allproof Laundry Outlet Box solves this problem by moving the services behind the wall linings—freeing up valuable floor space and allowing appliances to sit flush against the wall.

The Smart Behind-the-Wall Solution
The Allproof Laundry Outlet Box integrates hot and cold taps and a 50mm discharge pipe into a compact, injection-moulded unit. Fixed to noggings before wall linings are installed, the outlet box allows for a flush, tidy finish with either a plastic or stainless steel cover plate to conceal any tile or wallboard edges.

This space-conscious solution enables washing machines to be installed seamlessly—even in the tightest recesses of a compact laundry cupboard.

From a plumbing compliance perspective, the outlet box has been designed in accordance with AS/NZS 3500.2:2018, ensuring:

• The outlet is positioned above the appliance’s maximum water level to prevent siphoning.
• A glued 50mm trap is installed—removing the need for a mechanical seal or service hatch.
• The discharge pipe is placed within the same room, with a maximum developed length of 1.2m.

Installing the trap as close as possible to the floor—or even below the floor slab—helps minimise suds build-up, reducing overflow risk.

Additionally, the box allows for connection to a charged floor waste, typically shared with a vanity or shower. It’s important to note that this floor waste is only designed for emergency use, such as a blocked outlet, and not for plumbing fixture failure.

Real Projects: From Auckland to Christchurch
The Allproof Laundry Outlet Box has already proven itself in large-scale developments such as:

• 59 France Street Apartments (by PBA)
• Quest Apartments, Christchurch

In these projects, integrating the outlet box meant design teams could eliminate bulky standpipes and gain up to 600mm per unit—space that could then be used to enhance living areas.

For a 10-unit floorplate, that equates to six additional metres of usable space—a significant gain in any apartment development.

Sustainability and Compliance in One
Made using precision manufacturing and backed by Allproof’s decades of plumbing product expertise, the Laundry Outlet Box is both space-efficient and durable. It delivers a practical way for specifiers to meet Australian Standards while improving the liveability of compact residential designs.

A Small Product with a Big Impact
In the age of tight apartment footprints and high expectations for comfort, small design changes can have major impacts. The Allproof Laundry Outlet Box helps turn tight spaces into functional, comfortable environments—without compromising safety, aesthetics or compliance.

Whether you’re designing multi-residential apartments, student accommodation or hotel suites, this simple yet powerful solution could be the key to reclaiming space and improving usability.

Laundry Outlet Box

Designed to keep pipework tidy and compact. Perfect for high-density residential and complex projects.
Increases usable space in laundries and utility areas by recessing taps and drainage outlet into the wall.

As a supplier to the plumbing industry since the 1980s, Ian Jackson promoted the introduction to New Zealand of the AS 3500 Australian Plumbing Code, now known as AS/NZ 3500. NZ Plumber talked to Ian about his family run Allproof Industries business and his significant contribution to the industry over many years, which was recognised in the 2022 New Year’s Honours.

This article has been taken from NZ Plumber April-May 2022 issue, written by Matthew Lowe.

Work has always been a family affair for Ian Jackson, from joining his father’s plumbing business in 1953, to running successful ventures with his wife Maureen and seeing his children help him grow Allproof Industries.

The 85-year-old remains a shareholder and Director of the Auckland-based company and says he is happy to contribute where possible. His efforts over the years were recognised in the 2022 New Year Honours when he received the MNZM for services to the plumbing industry and the community.

Apprenticeship Beginnings

It all began after Ian finished his secondary education at Wellington College and started working with his father Jim Jackson at JP Jackson Ltd in Taihape in January 1953. Ian says it was a unique plumbing and drainage business in the North Island’s Central Plateau that serviced an area from Taupo to Hunterville.

“Before World War II this area was relatively isolated with the roads mainly metal, which meant Jim Jackson had very little opposition as a plumbing and drainlaying company serving the district’s rich farmlands, central mountain area, ski fields, Waiouru Military Camp and the Taupo area,” explains Ian.

“My father’s business quickly flourished at the start of World War II with the building of Waiouru Military Camp half an hour north of Taihape.”

He adds that the company went on to obtain the first significant equipment in the area, such as diggers, compressors and rock-blasting equipment for major drainage and sewage treatment constructions.

“Jim Jackson was much more than a plumber,” says Ian. “I remember my father having the conversation in our house with his good friends Jim and Rolly Shand about starting a plumbing supply business owned by plumbers.

“This was, of course, the idea that led to the Shand Brothers becoming Plumbing World in Palmerston North and the commencement of a successful major national plumbing supply chain.”

Australia to Auckland

After Ian completed his apprenticeship, he decided to move to Auckland in 1958 to gain experience in commercial plumbing before then heading across the Tasman. “I was employed by WA Chenery, at the time New Zealand’s largest plumbing company. I gained further experience in Australia working as a plumber at Tooths Brewery, Sydney.”

It was in Sydney that Ian got married to Maureen in 1962 and three years later the couple moved back to Auckland and he started his own company, Jackson Plumbing Ltd. It soon became prominent as an inner-city maintenance company, with a sheet metal shop making the Asta brand of hot water cylinders, and lead edge barge and ridge products for Alex Harvey decramastic roofing.

“We operated Auckland-wide for the next 30 years,” says Ian. “In the ’80s, Maureen and I purchased Barry Wilkie’s plumbing business on the  Whangaparaoa Peninsula and that company became Wilkie Plumbing, servicing the Hibiscus Coast area.”

Growth of Allproof Industries

In 1986, Ian became a shareholder in Allproof Industries, an Australian company supplying waterproofing products to the construction industry, and over the next few years, he and Maureen gained the total shareholding of its New Zealand and Australian arms. “As a supplier to the plumbing industry, I saw the opportunity to introduce to New Zealand a different more efficient and cost-effective way of plumbing, particularly to the commercial and apartment construction sector,” he explains. “This was the Australian Plumbing system AS 3500 Plumbing Code, later to become known as AS/NZ 3500. With this design layout of the standard, materials and labour costs were greatly reduced.”

Allproof Industries commenced manufacture of products required for the AS/NZS 3500 standards and over the past 35 years has designed and manufactured a large number of products, including many new ones created by its design team.

Ian is proud of how the company has grown to now employ about 130 staff. Its head office and main manufacturing factories are based at Beach Haven on Auckland’s North Shore, and it has a warehouse and team in Christchurch and representatives in Tauranga and Wellington. In Australia, the company has a warehouse facility and representatives in Melbourne and Brisbane.

Ian and Maureen’s children are also involved in the industry with one of their sons, Adam, now General Manager at Allproof, their daughter Jacinta the Administration Manager and their other son, Jared, spent 24 years with the company.

“It’s been a great privilege working so closely with my wife and children. I have enjoyed watching them learn about the business and it has been an enjoyable experience working alongside them to grow the business to what it is today.” Maureen passed away in December 2020 but Ian notes her legacy to the industry lives on as Master Plumbers introduced the Jackson Women in Plumbing Trophy, awarded at its annual conference.

Community Involvement

Through Allproof, Ian has also supported a number of charities, schools, sporting and local music organisations and he has been a member and president of the Auckland West Rotary Club. “My family has always been philanthropic. We usually have a discussion amongst ourselves when we get requests and tend to support relevant groups or organisations that we may have a connection with, or feel they warrant and would benefit from our support.” Ian lists his interests away from plumbing as sport, rugby, swimming, surf lifesaving and music. “I have played as a drummer and pianist in many bands,” he says.

NZ Plumber Magazine | April-May 2022

NZ Plumber is the award winning, bi-monthly magazine for New Zealand’s plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers.

Read it here

Allproof delivered a premium system and finish to the 5-star Cordis Hotel in Auckland while navigating challenges throughout the construction process.

Cordis is one of Auckland’s premier hotel and conference destinations. In late 2021, the hotel opened its landmark 17-storey Pinnacle Tower, boosting capacity to 640 rooms and making it the largest hotel in New Zealand by room count. Designed by renowned architects Jasmax at a cost of $170 million, the Pinnacle Tower brought a new level of 5-star accommodation to Auckland’s central city. Behind the striking exterior, the project brought together the best of New Zealand design, construction, manufacturing, and commercial plumbing.

When designing the hotel, durability and trusted systems were key priorities. Architect Philip Rutkiewicz selected fittings that would offer the best guaranteed lifespan. Even in a concrete and steel structure, Jasmax understood the impact of building movement and the real risk that even small waterproofing defects could present. A tiny hairline leak could take months, or even years, to reveal itself, and locating the source once the hotel was operational would be challenging.

With this in mind, Rutkiewicz specified Allproof’s tile-over stainless steel shower tray system for all 235 rooms in the new tower, providing a secure waterproofing solution that aligned with the hotel’s vision of setting “a new benchmark for modern luxury in Auckland” [1].

Stainless Steel: The Premium Waterproofing Choice
Allproof’s stainless steel shower trays offer exceptional waterproofing performance. The fully welded stainless layer falls to a flood-tested channel and spigot connected to a PVC waste, virtually eliminating the risk of leaks. While other impervious solutions, such as exposed stainless steel or acrylic trays, can be used, they often fall short in terms of durability for high-use environments and may not meet the design expectations of a luxury 5-star hotel.

Installed over the floor structure and beneath the tiles, the stainless tray allows the waterproofing membrane to run down the walls and lap into the tray. The result is a completely watertight base concealed beneath the tiled surface and wall linings.

Precision Planning and Customisation
Allproof’s early involvement in the design process allowed careful planning to meet the demanding project schedule. While their tile-over stainless trays are usually custom-measured and fabricated, the scale of the project required a different approach. After multiple site meetings with the designer, main contractor, and plumber, Allproof developed 13 tray designs to cover all room types.

With Hawkins Construction pouring slabs every seven days, there was no time for individual measurements. Allproof laser-cut in-house templates for each tray design so framing and hobs could be built to exact specifications. These templates also marked waste outlet positions, allowing concrete cutters and plumbers to prepare services in advance, ensuring flawless installation.

From Sample Room to Full Production
A sample room was developed for sign-off by the Langham Hospitality Group in Hong Kong. This process allowed Allproof to refine production methods before scaling up. Hanlon Plumbing, contracted for the plumbing installation, stressed the importance of maintaining the schedule. Alternative suppliers were considered but found to be inadequate.

To meet the project’s needs, Allproof dedicated five members of their 35-strong stainless fabrication team solely to tray production. Using their in-house laser cutter, CNC press brakes, and dedicated gluing facilities, they produced all 235 trays in just nine months, completing the work ahead of schedule. Impressively, not a single tray was rejected, a rare outcome in large-scale construction.

This project demonstrates that with proper planning, the right product selection, and collaboration with proven suppliers, complex builds can be delivered ahead of schedule and to the highest standard.

[1] https://www.cordishotels.com/en/auckland/overview/pinnacle-tower/

The process is just as important as the product.

This is an underscoring principal that has driven Allproof’s local manufacturing focus in recent years. As a manufacturer of market leading plumbing and drainage products, Allproof understands its environmental responsibility and takes it seriously. Allproof is striving to be an environmentally conscious manufacturer whilst continuing to produce premium products for the plumbing industry. Allproof firmly believes that the production process is just as important as the quality of the products that it produces. This has led to a targeted investment in its North Shore manufacturing facility, which includes new energy efficient injection moulding machines and clean renewable solar energy to power them.

Allproof have recently completed the installation of 449 solar panels through solar installation company Solarcraft. The installation took 6 months of initial planning followed by a team of five tradesmen completing 900 man-hours over a four-and-a-half-week period. This marks a key milestone for the company and underscores Allproof’s desire to be an industry leading manufacturer with an environmental conscience.

The projected daily average of 750kWh of clean renewable energy (in excess of 1,000kWh per day during summer months) generated from the 1700m² solar panel installation is used to power Allproof’s North Shore head office. This building includes its injection moulding, product assembly and outward goods departments. This will provide Allproof’s main facility with nearly 50% of its energy needs sourced from self-generated, clean solar energy. To give context, this is enough power to supply approximately 59 average homes in the state of Victoria. Excess power generated through peak production times is supplied back into the grid for local homes and businesses to benefit from clean energy. This impressive solar panel installation saves 50 tonnes of CO₂ from entering the atmosphere every year.

Another benefit to the onsite production of clean energy is the ability to charge Allproof’s plug-in Electric Vehicles (EV’s). By charging the EV’s onsite, Allproof can utilise the clean renewable energy generated onsite to significantly reduce the emissions of vehicle kilometres driven. Accompanying the plug-in EV’s, Allproof is also upgrading its fleet of sales vehicles to hybrid electric vehicles. These vehicles have improved fuel efficiency, reducing CO₂ emissions whilst allowing the sales team to continue to offer the high level of service required by our customers nationwide.

In addition to these developments at Allproof’s manufacturing hub, the company continues to increase its range of drainage and passive fire protection products made from 100% recycled plastic. These recycled materials are locally sourced from kerbside collections and allow Allproof to provide a large range of secondary recycled products, enhancing the lifecycle of these plastics, produced with a focus on sustainability and an overall reduction in environmental impact.  Furthermore, Allproof also holds the Best Environmental Practice (BEP) Certification for the production of PVC products, as part of its wider AS/NZS1260 product certification.

Allproof is committed to supplying high quality NZ made products with a goal of reducing its emissions and wider environmental impact. This is being achieved in a multitude of ways primarily including:

• • Local manufacturing
  • Focus on renewable energy and energy efficiency
  • Environmentally conscious material selection

The ongoing focus on the manufacturing process, will ensure that Allproof continues to provide the high quality products the company is known for with the environmental focus that is critical for generations to come.

In the realm of New Zealand’s plumbing and construction industry, Allproof Industries stands as a stalwart advocate for local ingenuity and environmentally conscious production methods. Pioneering the intersection of sustainability and innovation, we proudly present our latest offering: the 200mm clear opening drainage channel meticulously designed and crafted in-house, manufactured from 100% kerbside recycled plastic.

In-House Mastery of Design and Production

At Allproof, our commitment to quality extends to every facet of our operations. Embracing a design philosophy that “The Process is Just as Important as the Product”, Allproof champions in-house production. Our journey begins with a collaborative effort—from product design to tool making and the precise manufacture and assembly of the final product, all orchestrated from our Beach Haven manufacturing plant. This approach empowers us to not only maintain robust stock levels but also diminish reliance on offshore manufacturing, ensuring a consistent supply to meet market demand.

The Evolution of a Medium-Duty Drain

Driven by a dedication to meeting market needs, our dedicated team invested over 12 months in meticulously designing and crafting the 200mm drainage channel. After recognising a gap in the market, this locally produced channel made from 100% kerbside recycled material fills the need for a medium-duty, high-capacity drain. It promises excellent hydraulic performance while being easy to install, even in challenging hard-paved areas.

This drainage system boasts a variety of grates including the heelproof black plastic (GFP) grate, designed to withstand New Zealand conditions. Our cast iron (HCI) drainage grate boasts a class D load rating for commercial traffic under AS3996. Additionally, a 316 stainless steel wedge wire grate, with a class B load rating and R11 slip resistance (AS4586), caters to streetscape pedestrian areas and light vehicles.

An integrated inline sump fulfills sediment catchment requirements without disrupting the channel’s visual continuity, seamlessly connecting to the stormwater mains system.

A Seamless Installation Experience

In response to market demands for user-friendly solutions, our click-together straight channels eliminate the need for additional components, ensuring a fast and easy installation. Alternatively, our unique channel levelling clip system speeds up installation by utilising rebar to adjust channels to the desired height, eliminating the necessity for concrete haunching.

As stewards of New Zealand’s environment, Allproof recognises the pivotal role of responsible production practices. Steering clear of offshore manufacturing not only mitigates the environmental costs associated with external control but also minimises the ecological impact of shipping and transporting pre-made items. Embracing locally sourced 100% NZ recycled polypropene, including the plastic from your everyday shampoo bottles, our products embody a commitment to sustainability, transforming recycled materials into durable drainage channels designed to withstand the test of time.

Explore more about our extensive range of products crafted from recycled plastic, our ongoing environmental initiatives, and our commitment to product certification.

Commercial Channel 200mm

Mitigating risk is important when considering what components will be installed in your shower or wet room.

Tile Over Stainless Tray in Cordis Hotel Penthouse Suite, Auckland.

A lot of home owners have experienced leaks in a tiled area and the associated repairs and removal of mouldy or rotten framing, carpet and the like. This is one of the reasons for the popularity of Allproof’s offering of custom stainless steel shower trays. Allproof, an Auckland based family-owned manufacturing company is leading the way with a wide offering of tile over, exposed and commercial shower trays for a wide market application. All aspects of their NZ Manufacturing focusses on best environmental practice using solar power, rain water harvesting and manufacturing as much as possible with locally sourced recycled products.

The tile over shower tray is a game changer when it comes to modern bathroom design. It sits well in residential timber floor construction as well at high rise intensive properties where the shower may boundary other tenancies and properties which could be affected by a failure in the waterproofing system. Allproof have designed an engineered XPS base that will provide the required falls to meet NZBC E3 by having a base that provides the falls so the tiles are directly fixed to the stainless-steel tray. This removes the requirement for a screed or membrane in the high-risk area, with linings and waterproofing coming over the shower tray and terminating on the base. The trays are laser cut and CNC folded in house to specific design ensuring accuracy and efficiency in turnaround for one off projects.

Most Kiwis grew up in a house with an exposed stainless tray. This is a testament to the durability and simplicity of this design that these still exist and now are being specified for Kianga Ora projects, gyms and the seaside batch. These trays have a pressed fall that aids drainage to a point drain outlet and the tray is supported on a CNC cut Poly base for ease of installation. A floor waste gulley and a range of grate options finish the system with a no maintenance drain by removing any easy clean basket type waste which can be problematic, particularly in a public washroom. This system also aligns with Allproof’s fully tested passive fire range which is crucial when penetrating a fire cell between tenancies.

Design trends can be accommodated with Allproof tiled shower trays allowing a wide range of grate options in the tile over system, to being able to have an exposed tray with a channel drain or battened over for the nautical look. Call Allproof today to discuss your project and the advantages of a stainless steel shower tray in your next bathroom project and support New Zealand made.

Allproof Shower Trays: