Podiums are not extensively exposed to weathering elements but they are heavily exposed to water buildup and soil chemicals. All waterproofing solutions should be robust enough to restrict root damage. In designing any rooftop green space, there is a tricky balance between waterproofing, desired design and demand placed by the environment and plant life. During the design process, expect to revisit each aspect as competing requirements for each strain the planning process:
- The design must complement waterproofing and demand
- Demand cannot exceed waterproofing capacity and work within the design
- Waterproofing must meet demand within the design
Podium leaks are not the only reason for renewing the waterproofing. Sometimes upgrades to existing buried equipment, landscaping renewals or major at-grade alterations provide an opportunity to carry out the work. If the membrane is approaching the end of its service life, proactive owners may wish to perform waterproofing renewal at the same time to save additional costs.
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Selection of the right Waterproofing membrane, therefore, becomes pivotal., A waterproofing membrane could be laid above the structural slab and below the finish tiles. This will ensure that water does not seep into the structural slab. The tiles and membrane must be laid over a filler material that is sloped to ensure that water flows into sumps and drains. Ideally, a waterproofing membrane should be strong, flexible, tear-resistant and elastic so that it can stretch to cover cracks and also move with the building. If the membrane is to be exposed to the sun, then it should be UV stable.
Different types of Podium Waterproofing Membrane Products
Polymer-modified bitumen sheet membrane for Podium waterproofing
The most widespread materials for the creation of the waterproofing layer are the polymer-bitumen roll-fed sheet membranes. This is due to the relative simplicity of installation, the popularity of the technology, durability of the material and stability of the factory-set technical parameters. These materials could also be used as an underlay for pitched roofs and as a vapor barrier. The material withstands temperature fluctuations and high mechanical loads providing a long-term, reliable and effective waterproofing. The polymer-modified bitumen sheet membrane provides additional flow resistance that makes it possible to use the material in a very hot climate. On the bottom side, the material is covered by a polymer film with special graphic elements, melting of which indicates the proper material heating. On the top side, the material is covered by a polymer film. Modern products are designed for installation as the bottom layer in a double-layer roofing system on buildings and constructions, for waterproofing of foundations and engineering structures. Can be used as an underlay for bitumen shingles on pitched roofs. Used for new construction or repair.
Self-adhesive modified bituminous membranes for Podium waterproofing
Self-adhesive modified bituminous membranes are composed of asphalt, polymers, and tackifiers, and may contain mineral stabilizers. The products may be reinforced with fiberglass, polyester, or a combination of the two. Products designed for exposure to the elements are typically surfaced with mineral granules, coatings, films, or another opaque surfacing. The self-adhesive layer is protected with a release film or paper, which is removed during installation. Self-adhesive modified bituminous membranes are generally packaged and stored in cardboard boxes or they are protected with opaque wrapping. Unprotected self-adhesive products should not be stored in direct sunlight since exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays may affect the adhesive properties, especially on the outer convolutions of the roll, or cause “dog-legging” of the roll. Storage for extended periods or under extreme conditions can alter the adhesion properties of the self-adhesive bitumen or affect roll alignment.
EPDM membranes for Podium waterproofing
Unlike bitumen base membranes, there are no flames or torches required to install our EPDM membranes. These are installed using bonding adhesives. The installation is quick and more importantly, safe. Modern products come as a single component cementitious, polymer-modified non-reactive selective fiber-reinforced repair mortar to provide excellent properties as well as resistance to corrosion and carbonation and shrinkage cracking. This can be applied in thickness from 10 mm to 40 mm in vertical and 25 mm in an overhead situation. It is suitable to apply by hand trowel or by special mortar spray machine.
Thermoplastic roof membranes for Podium waterproofing
Thermoplastic roof membranes set themselves apart from other commercial roofing systems. It is a blend of polypropylene, ethylene-propylene and is often reinforced with polyester. Sheets of TPO can contain UV absorbers, colorant, flame retardants or other add-ins to achieve required physical properties. Often white, TPO sheets can range in width from 6 to 12 feet and have varying thickness, usually 40 to 100 mil. Thermoplastic membranes can be less expensive than other roofing options. TPO especially is seen as a lower-cost solution when it is time to repair a commercial roofing system. The lower cost of thermoplastic options doesn’t mean the membranes wear out too soon. PVC and TPO single-ply membranes can last 15 to 20-plus years (with regular inspection) without needing significant repairs.
Liquid Applied Membranes for Podium waterproofing
Liquid-applied membrane (LAM) is a monolithic, fully-bonded, liquid-based coating suitable for many waterproofing and roofing applications. The coating cures to form a rubber-like elastomeric waterproof membrane and may be applied over many substrates, including asphalt, bitumen and concrete. There’s no need to strip off old roofing materials and applications can go ahead without any disruption to normal routines within the underlying building. This liquid coating system can be applied by brush, roller, or airless spray directly over the existing failed substrate to reinstate total weatherproof protection. There is no need to strip out the existing roofing material as it is water-based, it releases no strong odour or hazardous solvents during the application, thus not disrupt normal routines in the building below.
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Bituminous Membranes for Podium waterproofing
Hot melt liquid bituminous rubber blend structural waterproofing system with an interlaid reinforcement can be used in roof and podium deck applications to provide a seamless waterproofing membrane for high green roofs and podiums, and are sometimes specified for winter applications as they can be laid at low temperatures.
Polyurethane liquid membranes for Podium waterproofing
Modern products come with a fiber-enhanced one component water-based polyurethane membrane that has been designed for a range of waterproofing applications where the membrane is to be covered over with tiles, screeds, concrete beds, etc They offer excellent adhesion properties overbuilding substrates including concrete, masonry, renders, cement sheeting, wet area sheet surfaces and plasterboard surfaces.
Conclusion
With evolution, more time is being spent on research and development for waterproofing membranes. Combined materials and component segregation us being to get a more quality product. This trend is here to say and we can expect more customized products for podium terrace waterproofing membranes.
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