GIB Aqualine® features a water-resistant core which helps prevent steam and moisture penetration and is one of New Zealand most popular products for wet areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundries. Our GIB® Helpline team often receive queries on installation and use of GIB Aqualine®, so we’ve pulled together the answers to some of your most common questions.

Do I need to install a metal angle in the shower I am building?

The Wet Area Systems Manual details the use of a metal angle on either timber or steel framing prior to lining in tiled areas (shower cubicles and shower over bath only). The wording in our manual states: “The internal corner shall be reinforced with a minimum 32 x 32 x 0.55mm galvanised metal angle” another option is the GIBFix® Angle as it is 45 x 45 x 0.55mm. This is fixed to the frame with 32mm x 6g GIB® Grabber® Self Tapping screws fixed at 600mm centres on each side of the framing”. This is not a “flashing” to keep water out, it is to lock the frames together to minimise the chance of cracking of the waterproofing. 

Why can’t I install a bracing element in behind my shower or bathtub?

Bracing elements are required to have a durability of 50 years. GIB® bracing elements are not to be located in shower cubicles or behind shower baths because of durability requirements, the likelihood of renovation, and practical issues associated with fixing bracing elements to perimeter framing members, such as at bath and shower tray locations.

Can I use glue on my framing to fix GIB® Aqualine?

When using GIB Aqualine® on a tiled wall a specific screw spacing of 150mm centres applies, this does not allow for space for use of adhesive. Some builders like to use adhesive to the nogs/dwangs, this is ok. On non-tiled walls, you can apply daubs of GIBFix® adhesive at 300mm centres to intermediate studs, but no closer than 200m to a screw.

With a shower next to a fire rated wall, am I required to build a baffle box behind the shower penetrations?

Yes, you can use the baffle box detail as shown on page 100 of our Fire Book, this only covers “metal pipes”, although this includes metal wingbacks. A baffle box will not be required if you use a suitable firestopping product, i.e., fire collar but noise performance also needs to be considered.

Need more help?

The GIB® Helpline team are available Monday to Thursday 7.30am – 5pm, Friday 7.30am – 4.30pm on 0800 100 442 or check out these handy guides and videos on GIB Aqualine®.