Comprehensive FAQ Guide on WC Cubicle Systems, Compact Lockers and Compact Laminate
WC cubicle and compact locker systems are permanent components in architectural projects that cannot easily be replaced later. Correct product selection depends on multiple technical variables such as architectural compatibility, user intensity, installation tolerances and long-term maintenance performance. On this page, you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions by architects and engineers in the field.
Compact laminate is a water-resistant, high mechanical performance panel. It maintains dimensional stability and durability in wet area applications. A system engineering approach requires the correct selection of panel type, connection details and accessories.
WC cubicle systems are modular partition systems designed to create individual usage spaces in wet areas using compact laminate panels. The panel, hinge, lock, support legs, connection profiles and installation tolerances work together. True performance is determined not only by panel quality but by complete system integrity.
What is compact laminate?
Compact laminate is a homogeneous, high-density panel material pressed under high pressure. It is resistant to moisture, impact and cleaning chemicals. It is engineered to maintain dimensional stability in wet area applications.
Why do WC cubicle prices vary?
One of the most searched topics on Google is “WC cubicle prices.” However, pricing depends on panel class (Core N or Core X), panel thickness, aluminum or 304 stainless steel hardware selection, project volume, disabled cubicle ratio and installation conditions. Approximately 40–60% of total system cost is linked to panel class and hardware segment. Therefore, proper evaluation must be based on the intended usage scenario.
How is WC cubicle m² calculated?
Front panels, dividing panels and door areas are calculated together. An average cubicle includes approximately 2.2–2.8 m² of panel surface. In accessible cubicles, area requirements increase by approximately 20%. In large-scale projects, modular planning optimizes production and installation efficiency.
What panel thickness should be selected?
12 mm and 13 mm panels are standard. A 13 mm panel may increase door stability by approximately 10% in high-traffic areas. Panel selection should be based on usage intensity.
What is the difference between Core N and Core X?
Core N is the standard solution for general humid environments. Core X provides additional resistance in areas exposed to continuous water contact. In shower cubicles and poolside areas, selecting Core X may extend system life by approximately 15–20%.
What is the difference between aluminum and stainless steel hardware?
Aluminum systems offer a balance between performance and cost efficiency. 304 grade stainless steel hardware improves corrosion resistance in high-humidity and chemical cleaning environments and may extend service life by approximately 20%.
What are WC cubicle accessories?
Hinges, locks, support legs, top stabilization profiles, coat hooks and fixing screws are core accessories. Approximately 40–50% of overall system performance is directly related to hardware quality.
Should WC cubicle accessories be stainless steel?
In high-humidity and high-traffic environments, 304 stainless steel accessories are recommended. In standard humid environments, aluminum systems may be sufficient.
What are the standard dimensions for accessible WC cubicles?
A minimum maneuvering area of 150x150 cm should be planned. Door width should be at least 90 cm. Accessible cubicles require approximately 20% more space than standard units.
Why is installation critical in WC cubicle systems?
Finished floor level, ceramic thickness, wall structure and drainage positions directly affect installation tolerances. Incorrect installation can reduce system performance by up to 30%.
What is the service life of WC cubicle systems?
With correct panel and hardware selection, stable performance between 8–15 years is achievable. Stainless steel hardware can further extend this period.
How should school WC cubicle systems be designed?
Due to frequent door cycles, a 12 mm panel with durable hinge systems is recommended. Impact resistance is a priority.
Why is stainless steel hardware preferred in shopping malls?
High user circulation and intensive chemical cleaning procedures require enhanced corrosion resistance.
Which panel should be used in shower areas?
Core X panel is recommended for areas exposed to continuous water contact. Incorrect panel selection may increase maintenance requirements by approximately 25%.
What is a compact locker?
A compact locker is a modular storage system manufactured from compact laminate panels, designed to securely store personal belongings in humid and high-traffic areas.
Why do compact locker prices vary?
Cost depends on module dimensions, number of doors, locking system, panel thickness, hardware segment and overall project volume. Lock and hinge systems account for approximately 30–40% of total system value.
What are standard locker dimensions?
Width 30–40 cm, depth 45–55 cm, height 170–200 cm. Corridor width should be at least 120 cm. Planning 150 cm improves user flow by approximately 20%.
What is a Z-door locker system?
It provides two-user capacity within the same vertical volume. It increases space efficiency by approximately 40% and is widely used in sports facilities and high-density staff areas.
Which system should be preferred in pool and wet areas?
Core X panel and stainless steel hinge systems are recommended in high humidity environments.
Do electronic lock systems provide advantages?
RFID or digital locking systems enhance user control and simplify operational management.
What is the service life of compact lockers?
With quality hardware and correct installation, 10–15 years of stable performance is achievable. Stainless steel hinges may further extend service life.
What is the difference between low-cost lockers and compact laminate systems?
The difference lies in panel density, moisture resistance and connection system engineering. Compact laminate systems reduce deformation risk in humid environments and minimize long-term maintenance requirements.
How can optimization be achieved in large-scale projects?
Standard modularization and correct panel class selection may improve production and installation efficiency by approximately 10–15%.
What is the most common mistake in wet area projects?
Using standard panels in shower zones and neglecting installation tolerances may result in long-term performance loss.
How should the correct product be selected?
Usage intensity, cleaning procedures, humidity levels and direct water exposure must be analyzed. The determining factor is not the product itself but the usage scenario.
What criteria should be considered when selecting compact laminate panels in wet areas?
Panel selection is not only a material choice. Usage intensity, environmental humidity load, direct water exposure, cleaning procedure, panel thickness, connection system and installation tolerances must be evaluated together. Standard compact panels are sufficient in general humid areas, while more aggressive wet conditions such as shower interiors require panels engineered for continuous water exposure. Correct panel selection directly impacts system life, door stability and long-term maintenance cost.
Are compact laminate panels water resistant in wet areas?
Yes. Compact laminate panels are suitable for wet area conditions and provide high resistance to moisture. However, overall system performance must be evaluated together with edge detailing, installation tolerances and connection systems.
How is panel thickness determined in WC cubicle systems?
Panel thickness is related to usage intensity, cubicle height and hardware detailing. Typically, 12 mm and 13 mm compact laminate panels are preferred. Architectural criteria such as dimensional stability and door performance are also important.
What are the critical installation details in WC cubicle systems?
During measurement, finished floor level, ceramic thickness, drainage positions, wall cladding structure and final plumbing conditions must be accurately assessed. Production based on inaccurate measurements negatively affects installation tolerances and system performance.
What should be the door bottom clearance in WC cubicle systems?
Door bottom clearance is determined based on hygiene, cleaning and ventilation requirements. Considering floor slope and drain positions, a minimum clearance of 100–120 mm may be applied. Project-specific conditions may require optimization based on on-site measurements.
Which accessories are recommended for very high-traffic areas?
Corrosion-resistant, high mechanical load capacity hinges and connection elements are recommended. Stainless steel reinforced systems provide long-term stability.
When should Z-door locker systems be preferred?
Z-door modular lockers are preferred when higher user capacity is required in limited spaces, especially in sports changing rooms and staff facilities.
What are the performance differences between locking systems?
Lock type is related to security level, usage model, operational priority and user behavior. Padlock-compatible, keyed or electronic lock systems are selected based on operational needs.
How important is accessory hardware in WC cubicle systems?
Accessory hardware is as important as the panel itself. In high-traffic areas, low-quality accessories may cause connection loosening and door instability. Components with high engineering standards should be preferred.
How can measurement risks be minimized?
Finished floor level, wall cladding thickness and plumbing positions must be precisely measured. On-site verification with the end user minimizes production and installation uncertainties.
When should Core N panel be preferred?
Core N panel is suitable for general wet area conditions without continuous direct water exposure. It provides stable performance in WC cubicles and locker systems.
What is the technical difference between Core N and Core X?
Core X panel is optimized for areas exposed to continuous direct water. It is recommended in showers, poolside areas and environments with intensive cleaning procedures. Core N is suitable for general humid areas.
Is Core X panel suitable for shower areas?
Yes. When proper edge detailing and installation tolerances are applied, Core X provides stable performance in shower and direct water exposure areas.
Technical Project Support
SANDER provides project-specific technical data sheets, section details and installation diagrams. For correct system selection, please submit the following information:
• Net measurements (including finished floor level)
• Area list and quantities
• Panel thickness preference
• Hardware and accessory requirements
• Installation included / excluded option