Concealed cisterns which are safe and save space are being supplied in the Gulf by Geberit, an international manufacturer of innovative sanitary technology.
''While the Gulf is already accustomed to having pipe work within a wall, exposed ceramic cisterns in front of the wall are still common place. These cisterns waste space,'' notes a spokesman for Geberit, suggesting that the shortcoming can be remedied by having the cisterns safely within a wall.
Two key design considerations are now contributing to the increasing popularity of Geberit concealed cisterns in the Gulf region, he says.
"The first is the growing popularity of wall-hung WCs, seen by many architects as not only more hygienic but also beneficial with regard to aesthetics and space saving. Secondly, the need to conceal both water supply and waste pipe work safely without compromising the insulation and structural values of the wall has increased in recent years."
By utilising one of the Geberit PreWall installation systems, architects are able to meet their aesthetic requirements, confident in the knowledge that the pipework will not be a hidden problem and the cistern can be safely out of sight as well, the spokesman says.
"Geberit PreWall installation systems represent a major step forward by enabling all plumbing services to be installed onto the wall as opposed to in or behind the wall," he points out, adding that all plumbing installations in either renovations or new buildings can be done easily, quickly and efficiently with the system. The different fixing elements for concealed cisterns provide a simple, fast and secure installation, he says.
Citing some of the advantages, he says the Geberit systems:
• Have universal application, either in new buildings or in renovations;
• Can be combined with the drainage and water supply services;
• Enable cost-effective installation time;
• Offer great design freedom to the architect; and
• Create secure and precise fixing of sanitary ware.
Geberit has developed various PreWall systems - the Geberit Kombifix, Duofix and the GIS - each having its own specific application and design benefits.
The Kombifix elements are to be used within block walls. They provide precise and secure connection points for the services and the sanitary ware, he says. Elements are available for WC, bidet, urinal and washbasin installations.
Duofix elements, being self-supporting units, are the ideal solution in drywall construction that is becoming more and more popular, he points out. A metal frame provides the necessary stability to carry up to 400 kg. The height as well as depth are easily adjustable. The Duofix can also be fastened to a wall and covered with panels. As with the Kombifix, it provides all inlets and outlets ready for connection.
''The GIS (Geberit Installation System) offers the perfect solution for a speedy and complete installation of bathrooms when the building is at shell stage,'' the spokesman says. ''With few parts (profiles and connectors), the system allows prefabrication and offers great design possibilities. As a complete system, it houses all the pipes and is ideal for fast renovations.
"All Geberit installation elements come complete with a Geberit concealed cistern that is respected for the following features: impact-resistant, corrosion-free HDPE; anti-condensation insulation; hygienic and space saving; maintenance-free; easy access to the internal parts which are removable; silent float valve; fast filling; water-saving due to dualflush; and dualflush 6/9 and 3 litres.''
Over the past 125 years, the Switzerland-based Geberit Group has become synonymous for high-quality products and services. Geberit has its Gulf regional office in Dubai.
