Product /
Mar 18, 2019

KBRS Receives U.S. Patent for Prefab Composite Shower Curb

KBRS HardCurb Prefabricated Shower Curb

Shower products manufacturer KBRS has received a patent for a self-sealing, prefabricated shower curb that prevents leaks and tile failure.

The HardCurb is engineered to prevent common occurrences from happening, the company says, because it has a solid EPS core and self-sealing anchoring cap. 

“Securing the HardCurb patent is another important step towards providing the best possible, leak-free solutions for our customers,” says Tommy Davis, CEO of KBRS. “We’ve seen too many frustrated homeowners and builders replace rotting showers caused by leaks from sub-par shower curbs. The HardCurb is a key component of our Hard Core line of products that aim to help homeowners enjoy their new space without having to worry about leaks.”

 

KBRS HardCurb Prefabricated Shower Curb Illustration

The shower curb is often described as one of the most critical components of a tile shower, KBRS explains. When glass enclosure anchoring screws penetrate tile shower curbs constructed from wood, mortar, or hollow prefabricated foam, they create a “breach” in the waterproofing membrane, which becomes a weak spot that is highly susceptible to moisture penetration. It also can eventually cause leaks, water damage, and tile-pop.

But the prefab, ready-to-install HardCurb is a real problem-solver, the company says. Because it’s comprised of two components—a high-density closed-cell foam base and a higher density composite self-sealing anchoring cap—it prevents water intrusion.

“The anchoring cap is made of a self-sealing material layer that is configured to retain a fastener to form a water-resistant seal between the fastener and the composite anchoring cap component,” the company says. “This engineered solution prevents the typical leak and rotting problems associated with traditional shower curbs.

HardCurb is easy to cut-to-fit in the field and install with any prefabricated shower pan or sloped mortar bed.