Baseboards in commercial buildings must be durable and attractive, and often need to meet specific code and hygienic requirements. Schluter-Systems is expanding its line of Schluter®-DESIGNBASE-SL top-set wall baseboards that provide a modern alternative to traditional baseboards for commercial buildings and condominiums. The product line now includes a brushed stainless steel option, in heights of 4-3/8” (110 mm) and 6-3/8” (160 mm), which exceed code requirements in a wide range of facilities including healthcare, commercial kitchens, commercial bathrooms, airports, and many others.
These new heights are ideal for covering previous baseboard marks, making replacement projects faster, easier, and more attractive. Both of these new heights, in combination with the cove profile of the baseboard, exceed the code requirements for commercial applications so specifiers and installers can be confident in their compliance with these codes, especially where sanitation is a concern.
Because it is made of metal, DESIGNBASE-SL provides added durability and won’t crack or shrink over time, eliminating a common problem with many commercial baseboards. Made without the anchoring leg used on traditional Schluter profiles and trim pieces, DESIGNBASE-SL-E is designed to be installed after the floor and is suitable for use over any type of new floor surface. The cove-shaped base sits on top of the floor and is attached to the wall using a suitable adhesive such as Schluter®-KERDI-FIX. This design offers a few notable advantages, starting with fast and easy installation. Because it sits on top of the finished floor it is also ideal in situations where the floor is still in good condition but the baseboard needs to be replaced. DESIGNBASE-SL also offers cost-savings over custom fabricated baseboards.
An optional sealing lip accessory is offered to protect the floor/wall transition from moisture penetration and to reduce the transmission of impact sound. Corner pieces, connectors, and end caps are also available to give a professional finish to any project.
The previous DESIGNBASE offering will continue to be available. These items include anodized aluminum in a satin finish, a brushed stainless steel appearance, and color-coated aluminum in matte white, all available in 2-3/8” (60 mm) and 3-1/8” (80 mm) heights.