Currently undergoing transformation, the waterproofing industry is being reshaped by new technology, sustainability and calls for a more governed and transparent sector.
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Sealing in success
Currently undergoing transformation, the waterproofing industry is being reshaped by new technology, sustainability and calls for a more governed and transparent sector.
By Candace Sofianos King
Creative Commons
Summer brings spectacular storms which means roofs need exceptionally strong waterproofing.
Undeniably one of the most crucial factors when it comes to roof construction, waterproofing is a key element which ensures a roof’ s longevity.
Speaking of the local waterproofing sector’ s longevity, well-respected expert Donovan Slade, chairperson of the Waterproofing Association of Gauteng, says the South African waterproofing market is an interesting one that’ s surely experiencing varying degrees of change.
Slade says while the market is dominated by bitumous membranes, there has been an influx of new technologies such as polyurea, polyaspartics, polyurethanes, modified acrylics, MS Technology and Liquid EPDM systems.“ Technology has its place in the market, while each product has its advantages and disadvantages. The challenge for the specifier and the contractor is to choose the correct technology for the application at hand,” explains Slade.
In relation to the biggest challenges when waterproofing a roof, Slade says having all the information required to specify the correct waterproofing system is important.“ The contractor or specifier must take movement, type of substrate being bonded onto, UV requirements, the type of asset being protected or waterproofed, environmental conditions when applying, life expectancy of the waterproofing system and aesthetic appeal into consideration.”
Another challenge is the use of unskilled waterproofers which results in numerous problems, highlights Gordon Anderson, one of South Africa’ s foremost authorities on waterproofing. Anderson consults to a. b. e. Construction Chemicals, a manufacturer of
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SEPTEMBER 2018