🛠️ How to Install an AKW Tuff Form Wetroom Former

Step-by-step guide for timber & concrete floors, vinyl or tiled finishes

If you're planning a level-access wetroom, the AKW Tuff Form® wetroom former is one of the most trusted and durable solutions on the market. Designed to be strong, lightweight, and easy to install, it provides a safe, accessible base for wetroom showers — ideal for both residential and healthcare environments.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to install a Tuff Form tray on both timber and concrete floors, with guidance on finishing with either vinyl flooring or tiles.

🧰 What You’ll Need:

• AKW Tuff Form® former tray

• Compatible AKW waste (gravity or pumped)

• Jigsaw or plunge saw

• Pipework & waste trap

• Adhesive/sealant (as specified by AKW)

• Leveling compound (if required)

• Waterproof tanking kit (for tiles)

• Screws and appropriate fixings

🔨 Step 1: Pre-Installation Checks

• Check floor level: The floor must be level or capable of being leveled.

• Check floor type: Determine whether you're installing on timber joists or a solid concrete base.

• Choose waste location: Tuff Form trays come with multiple pre-formed waste positions.

🪵 Installation on Timber Floors

1. Mark the tray position on the floor and identify joists beneath.

2. Cut out the floorboards to the shape of the Tuff Form using a jigsaw. Ensure joists aren’t compromised.

3. Support the tray with battens or noggins between joists to create a secure platform around the waste area.

4. Install the waste trap: Fit between joists or use a shallow waste if space is tight.

5. Place the Tuff Form tray into the recess and test fit. The tray should sit flush with the surrounding floor.

6. Screw down the tray using AKW’s recommended fixings and positions. Do not over-tighten.

7. Connect the waste pipe and ensure it flows freely with no leaks.

🧱 Installation on Concrete Floors

1. Mark the tray area and cut or break out the concrete to a depth that allows the tray to sit level with the finished floor.

2. Create a channel for the waste pipe to run under the tray and out to the waste outlet.

3. Ensure a level base using self-leveling compound if necessary.

4. Fit the waste trap and connect to your drainage system.

5. Bed the tray onto flexible adhesive or mortar (as per AKW instructions) and allow to set.

6. Ensure the tray is fully supported and level.

🔗 Finishing with Vinyl Flooring

• Use AKW's vinyl clamp to secure the vinyl to the tray’s integrated clamping area.

• Ensure the vinyl sheet overlaps the tray edges and is sealed using compatible adhesive.

• Heat-weld joints and corners as needed to maintain a fully waterproof surface.

• No tanking is required when using vinyl, but seams and joints must be perfectly sealed.

🧱 Finishing with Tiles

1. Apply waterproof tanking membrane over the tray and onto surrounding walls and floors as recommended.

2. Use a waterproof tile adhesive suitable for wetrooms.

3. Tile directly onto the Tuff Form tray’s surface.

4. Grout using flexible, waterproof grout, and seal all edges with silicone.

5. Use a wetroom drain cover kit compatible with the chosen tiles for a flush finish.

⚠️ Important Installation Tips

• Always follow AKW’s official fitting instructions for compatibility and warranty.

• Check fall/slope direction to ensure water flows to the waste.

• If using a pumped waste, ensure accessibility for maintenance.

• Use PVA-free adhesives if tiling, to avoid long-term bond failure.

✅ Summary

Whether you're installing over timber joists or into a solid concrete base, the AKW Tuff Form makes wetroom installation simpler and more durable. With the right preparation, and by choosing a finish that suits your needs — vinyl for accessibility or tiles for style — you can achieve a long-lasting, fully waterproof wetroom space.

At Essential Bathrooms, we supply the full range of AKW wetroom formers, waste kits, pumps, vinyl floors, and tiling accessories to help you complete the job to a professional standard.

Need help planning your wetroom project?
Contact our expert team or browse our AKW wetroom products at www.essentialbathrooms.co.uk

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