Schluter BARA-RAK Balcony Edging Profiles

Application and Function

Schluter-BARA-RAK is a powder-coated aluminum edging profile with a drip lip. The profile finishes the exposed edges of floor assemblies on balconies and terraces that have an existing sloped screed. The trapezoid-perforated anchoring leg of Schluter-BARA-RAK should be integrated with a suitable waterproofing membrane. Once the anchoring leg of Schluter-BARA-RAK becomes integrated with the waterproofing membrane, tile installation can begin.

When using Schluter-BARA-RAK as an edging profile for floor assemblies that are to receive a waterproofing membrane with a mortar screed on top, a drainage layer must be incorporated into the surface assembly. Schluter-BARA-RAK produces a clean edge finish and protects the exposed edges against weathering and decay.

Available Sizes and Materials / Item Number Table

Profile	Outside corner 90&deg	Inside corner 90&deg	Outside corner 135&deg	Connector
RAK50 + color*	E90/RAK50 + color*	I90/RAK50 + color*	E135/RAK50 + color*	V/RT30 + color*

* to complete the item number, add the color code (e.g., E135/RAK50RB)

Installation

1. Using a notched trowel, apply thin-set mortar to the area where BARA-RAK is to be placed. Press the perforated anchoring leg of the profile into the thin-set mortar and align.
2. To integrate the Schluter-DITRA membrane, abut the DITRA to the edge of the anchoring leg. The remaining joint between the Schluter-DITRA and the profile is covered with Schluter-KERDI-BAND such that it overlaps the DITRA by a minimum 2" (5 cm) and covers the anchoring leg of the BARA-RAK. Use Schluter-KERDI-FIX to bond KERDI-BAND to the BARA-RAK between the trapezoid perforations and the leading edge of the profile. Use unmodified thin-set mortar to bond KERDI-BAND to DITRA and the remaining area of the BARA-RAK.
3. The tiles may now be installed using the thin-bed method. Schluter-SCHIENE or Schluter-RONDEC can be applied to edge the tiles at the recessed transition to the drip lip. If the SCHIENE or RONDEC will not be used, the edge of the covering assembly should be approximately flush with the drip lip of Schluter-BARA-RAK.
4. When using a bituminous, flat sheet-applied, or trowel applied waterproofing membrane, the trapezoid-perforated anchoring leg of Schluter-BARA-RAK is bonded to the sloped screed at the exposed edge area with a suitable thin-set mortar. To prevent a slope reduction at the edge area, apply a gradient transition layer of thin-set mortar between the screed and the profile. The waterproofing membrane is carried over the cut-back channels in the bonding flange and bonded with a suitable adhesive. When installing the waterproofing membrane, the instructions of the manufacturer must be observed.
5. Covering assemblies installed over a waterproofing layer may consist of a drainage membrane with a load-distribution layer (e.g. mortar bed) on top, a gravel layer, or large-format pavers supported by pedestals or stilts.
6. Please note: Prefabricated corners and connectors are available for inside corners, outside corners, and butt joints. Abut the ends of Schluter-BARA-RAK, leaving an approx. 3/16" (5 mm) joint. Cover the joint with the clip-on connector.

Material

Schluter-BARA-RAK is made of pre-treated (chromated), powder-coated aluminum.

The coating on the aluminum profile is color-stable, as well as weather- and UV-resistant. Visible surfaces should be protected against abrasion. In special cases, the suitability of Schluter-BARA-RAK must be verified based on the anticipated chemical, mechanical, and/or other stresses.

Maintenance

Schluter-BARA-RAK requires no special maintenance. The coated surface of the aluminum profile is colorfast and UV-resistant. Damaged surfaces shall be painted over.