GRIFFITH UNIVERSITY QUEENSLAND
ROOFTOP WATERPROOFING
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Griffith University embarked on a rooftop waterproofing project aimed at enhancing the durability and performance of its building's roofing system. The project focused on ensuring a high-quality waterproofing solution through a careful application process and stringent quality assurance measures. The work involved full membrane removal, substrate preparation, and application of specified primers and liquid membrane coatings, all executed with minimal disruption to ongoing university activities.
CHALLENGES
The project faced several challenges, primarily revolving around the need to conduct extensive preparation and application processes without interfering with the university's academic schedule. Key challenges included ensuring that the preparation works, especially the use of planetary grinders for membrane removal, did not cause noise or vibration disturbances to the lectures and other academic activities within the building. Additionally, implementing a robust quality assurance program was crucial to guarantee that the waterproofing system would perform as expected, particularly during the Queensland wet season. The project also needed to be completed within a tight timeframe of five weeks of lead time and three weeks of on-site work. Moreover, performing the work during the wet season posed a risk of delays and potential water ingress issues.
SCOPE OF WORK
Spectech's scope of work was comprehensive and detailed, covering various aspects of the waterproofing process. It included substrate preparation, such as grinding the existing substrate to accommodate the new roof covering while ensuring a CSP 2-3 profile, and conducting hardness and moisture tests to meet specified requirements. Anchorage grooves were provided as per the specifications to secure the new roofing system. The coating system involved provisionally applying a suitable primer with written confirmation from the product supplier if needed, cutting and sealing joints to ensure a watertight seal, and adding slip resistance aggregate to the topping along with the standard grey color. The polyurethane resin topping system included supplying and installing Durafloor X to the greenhouse floor as specified. Additionally, a contingency sum was allocated to address any unforeseen issues or additional requirements during the project execution.
Griffith University - Rooftop Waterproofing
To ensure successful application and outcome, a rigorous quality assurance program was designed and implemented. Full membrane removal was undertaken in house using planetary grinders, ensuring full removal and a CSP 2-3 profile remained in the existing substrate. Specified primers and three coats of liquid membrane as per specification, with both theoretical and actual consumption rates recorded for quality assurance purposes.
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During preparation works, no disturbance was caused through noise or vibration to the university lectures occurring within the building. The structure was completed within five weeks of lead, three weeks of site time Queensland wet season tested, no water ingress detected Tensile strength test (non-destructive) passed Holiday test (pinhole) passed.