Type E Cavity Tray vs Timloc Inter-Loc Comparison
If you’re specifying pre-formed cavity trays, two names come up more than any others: the Cavity Trays of Yeovil Type E and the Timloc Inter-Loc. Both are well-established, BBA-approved systems — but they’re designed for different situations. Choosing the wrong one can mean unnecessary cost, a more complicated installation, or a tray that doesn’t perform in the detail you’re working with.
This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can match the right tray to your project.
Overview: Two Different Design Philosophies
The Type E is a 450 mm (two-brick) polypropylene tray designed primarily for retrofit and refurbishment. Its hinged upstand and progressive insertion method — one brick at a time into a raked-out mortar joint — make it the go-to choice for introducing a DPC into an existing wall without dismantling it.
The Timloc Inter-Loc is a 900 mm (four-brick) tray designed primarily for new-build construction. Its integral interlocking joints click together to form long, continuous runs without adhesive, and the optional polystyrene mortar barrier (IL4P model) prevents mortar droppings from blocking the tray during bricklaying.
Head-to-Head Comparison
When to Specify Type E
The Type E tray is the right choice in three scenarios.
First, retrofit DPC in existing walls. When an extension turns an external wall into an internal one, or when remedial damp-proofing is needed at a roof intersection, the Type E’s progressive insertion method avoids the need to remove and rebuild brickwork. Rake out the bed joint, slide the trays in, re-point and you’re done.
Second, wider cavities. With an adjustable upstand covering 50–140 mm, the Type E handles wider cavities than the standard Inter-Loc (which tops out at 125 mm). If your cavity exceeds 125 mm and you need a horizontal tray, Type E is the simpler specification.
Third, short runs and awkward details. The 450 mm length is easier to work with in tight spaces, around meter boxes, or where the run is only two or three bricks long.
When to Specify Timloc Inter-Loc
The Inter-Loc system wins on speed and coverage for new-build work.
Long horizontal runs. At 900 mm per unit, the IL4P covers four bricks in one lay — twice the coverage of Type E. On a 5-metre lintel run, that’s 6 units versus 12, with half the joints.
Mortar protection. The polystyrene mortar barrier on IL4P units prevents mortar droppings from landing on the tray surface and creating moisture bridges. Type E trays have no equivalent feature, so bricklayers need to be more careful during the next course.
System completeness. Timloc offers a full family of matching components — two-brick trays (IL2), four-brick trays (IL4/IL4P), internal corners, external corners and stop-ends — all with the same interlocking joint. For complex new-build details with multiple returns, the system approach simplifies specification and reduces the risk of mismatched components.
Can You Mix Type E and Timloc on the Same Project?
Yes — and many projects do. A common approach is to use Timloc Inter-Loc for all new-build horizontal tray runs (lintels, ring beams) and Type E for any retrofit sections where existing walls need a retrospective DPC. The two systems use different joint details, so you’ll need a transition detail where they meet — typically a cut Type E unit overlapping the last Inter-Loc by at least 100 mm, sealed with DPC jointing tape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cavity trays — full range
Browse Spechunter's full UK trade range: All Cavity Trays · DPC · Weep Holes · Fire Rated Trays
Is the Type E tray the same as the one sold at Screwfix?
The Type E horizontal refurb tray is manufactured by Cavity Trays of Yeovil and is available through several distributors. The product specification is identical regardless of retailer. At Spechunter we stock the full range of Type E accessories including external angles, stop-ends and weep units, which are often not available at general trade counters.
Which is cheaper: Type E or Timloc Inter-Loc?
On a per-metre basis, Timloc Inter-Loc is typically more cost-effective for long runs because each unit covers 900 mm versus 450 mm for Type E, meaning fewer units and fewer joints. For short retrofit runs, Type E is more economical because you only buy what you need — no off-cuts from 900 mm trays.
Do both systems need weep holes?
Yes. Every cavity tray installation — regardless of system — requires weep holes at maximum 450 mm centres to discharge collected water. NHBC requires a minimum of two weeps per tray run.
Browse our full cavity tray range or order directly: Type E Horizontal Refurb Tray | Timloc Inter-Loc IL4P 900mm. Order before noon for free next-day delivery on £200+ orders.
New guide: for sizes, cavity widths and how many units a run needs, see our Type E cavity tray sizes and spec guide.