In any bathroom design, it’s often the unseen features that make the biggest difference. One of these is the bath upstand; a discreet yet essential component that helps keep bathrooms looking clean and performing well over time.
A bath upstand is a small vertical lip or edge integrated along one or more sides of a bath. Its purpose? To provide a barrier that prevents water from seeping down behind or beside the bath where it meets the wall. This can be particularly important in back-to-wall, corner, and shower-over-bath installations where the bath sits flush against an often tiled surface.
Without an upstand, even well-tiled and sealed baths are vulnerable to gradual water ingress; the kind that leads to hidden mould, compromised adhesives, or damage to the wall linings behind the bath. An upstand effectively mitigates this risk by creating a physical stop that redirects water back into the bath itself
Bath Upstands: A Simple Solution to a Common Problem
In all bathrooms, where user friendliness and long-term performance are key concerns, upstands offer us peace of mind. That’s why Newtech provides an optional aluminium bath upstand on all corner and back-to-wall baths, such as the Willow, Laurel, and Newark models. Priced at just over $200, the upstand is pre-installed at the factory, ensuring a flush fit and reliable seal — no awkward retrofitting required.
The upstand sits unobtrusively beneath the tile line and is invisible once the bath is fully installed. Yet, its presence makes a measurable difference to how the bath performs over time. It’s a detail that speaks to function-first design; a priority for bathroom builders and renovators seeking to reduce maintenance while still delivering on aesthetics.
If you’re planning to install a shower over a bath, an upstand becomes even more essential. The increased water contact around the walls makes these installations more vulnerable to water ingress. In fact, some local building codes require upstands in shower-over-bath configurations to meet waterproofing standards. It’s best to check your local council regulations before finalising your purchase, but in most cases, including an upstand is simply the smart choice.
Built for the Long Run
If you're planning a bathroom renovation and are choosing a back-to-wall or corner bath, including a bath upstand in your installation could save you costly repairs down the line. It's a simple addition that supports waterproofing integrity and reinforces the longevity of your investment.
Need Help Choosing the Right Bath for Your Space?
Whether you're renovating a compact ensuite or designing a full master bathroom, choosing the right bath can make all the difference, in both style and function. Newtech’s extensive range includes freestanding, back-to-wall, and corner baths, with materials, finishes, and accessories to suit a variety of spaces and preferences.
To explore the full selection, browse Newtech’s online bath catalogue, or speak directly with Newtech’s experienced team by calling 0800 728 662
