"This will make the installers' job much easier, which is exactly what we wanted." Why is DallFlex 2.0 making a huge difference on the construction site?
Sebastian Kellermann has served as head of product management and customer service at Dallmer in Arnsberg for about five years. In this interview, he shares his insights on the development and benefits of the improved DallFlex 2.0 linear drain system.
CeraWall Individual drain strip, photo: Dallmer
© DALLMER
What is DallFlex 2.0?
DallFlex 2.0 is a further development or new generation of our proven DallFlex linear drain system. It is a relaunch to bring the entire product range and portfolio into line with the future.
Why did this relaunch come about?
There were many reasons for it. We regularly receive feedback from installation engineers at our hands-on workshops. Participants repeatedly emphasized that the installation industry is currently undergoing changes.
CeraFloor Individual drain strip, photo by Christine Haase
© DALLMER
What specific changes are you talking about?
One problem is that the thickness of cladding and ceramic tiles is becoming thinner and thinner. While previously the standard material thickness was 10 to 12 mm, today it is often only 6 mm or even less. Thin, large formats are increasingly used, mainly for visual and hygienic reasons. Sustainability also plays a big role: producing thinner tiles requires less energy, which reduces the carbon footprint. Cladding thicknesses have changed - an important aspect that we have adapted to in improving our product.
Another problem is time on site. Contractors have more and more orders and need to complete the work in the shortest possible time. This is also important feedback that we have taken into account to optimize our offering for a friendly installation.
DallFlex Plan 2.0 body with mechanical dry trap, photo: Dallmer
© DALLMER
So work on site has become much easier for installers?
Yes, much easier. First of all, we have introduced a new way of installing the mounting feet used to fix and adjust the height of the drain body and sound insulation. The new sliding mechanism allows the contractor to easily and quickly set the body to the correct height and then precisely level it.
Particularly noteworthy is the new frame integrated into the body, which helps to properly fix and position the drain strip. The frame allows for an exact fit to the body, but still retains the existing flexibility of the DallFlex system, the ability to precisely position the strip to suit your needs and to choose a strip from a wide range. This means that the body of the drain is installed in the screed, and the lining material can be modified later. Instead of tiles, one can choose a thin-bed floor, a thinner tile instead of a thick one, or vice versa. The mounting frame can also be rotated 180 degrees. This is crucial for wall-mounted installations where more flexibility and adjustability may be needed, such as with thick natural stone cladding.
These are two new useful features. Are there any others?
Yes, a third important feature is the mechanical dry trap, which is available as an accessory in the DallFlex 2.0 product range and is already familiar from the DallDrain system. It is used, for example, in infrequently used guest showers or summer houses. This trap works by means of a flapper, which is additionally supported by magnetic force. This provides effective protection against unpleasant sewage gases.
In addition to the new features, the familiar advantages of the DallFlex system remain unchanged: a flexible, crease-free and lip seal-mounted sealing cuff that ensures a secure connection to the waterproofing. In addition, a drain spigot that can be adjusted to one of three sides without the use of tools, or a ball joint for tension-free connection to the waste pipe.
Zentrix compact drain strip, photo: Dallmer
© DALLMER
What sets DallFlex 2.0 apart?
What makes it unique is that there are no longer any restrictions on the thickness of the floor covering - all thicknesses are possible from thin-bed liquid flooring, tiles from 6 mm to natural stone. Depending on the choice of solution - wall-mounted, centered or compact - our bodies can be combined with more than 10 different DallFlex series skirting boards.
Does a product change affect current inventory?
No. Even if you still have a first-generation drain, this is not a problem. All shower mouldings are still compatible with the first generation. Only if you are installing cladding that is 6 mm thick, you need a second-generation body.
When will DallFlex 2.0 be available?
DallFlex 2.0 has been available since September.
CeraFloor Select drain strip black matte, photo: Dallmer
© DALLMER
What can we expect in the future?
I can already reveal that there will be other highlights of linear drains that we will bring to the market during the year. So it will continue to be exciting.
Finally, what is your favorite shower drain?
The answer is clear: the CeraWall Individual drain. It features elegant minimalism, allows tile visibility and blends seamlessly into the shower area.
For more information, visit the company's DALLMER / Wirex Sp. z o.o. page on the A&B portal.
