Marina Square, Wentworth Point
APPLICATOR: Team Members’ Project
GENERAL CONTRACTOR: Billbergia
The Marina Square Shopping Centre is a popular retail precinct located at Wentworth Point, one of the most prime spots in New South Wales. With many specialty and brand name stores, it was important that they had excellent grouting and tiling solutions in-line with the stunning design of the area.
The client required durable tiling, adhesive and epoxy grout solutions for the shopping centre main floor that didn’t compromise on aesthetics. The contractor opted for the distinctive and popular look of terrazzo tiles (400 x 400 x 20mm with 3mm joints) for this project as they could be put down quickly and provide a consistent, hard wearing flush finish once ground and polished. ARDEX provided a solution consisting of ARDEX X 18 tile adhesive and ARDEX EG 800 F commercial epoxy system. Combining these products ensured a high quality finish.
Challenge
As a high traffic area, the shopping centre needed to have its flooring and construction done quickly with minimal disruption to leasees and patrons.
The sheer size of the area (3400 square metres) meant that the project required a solution that could be laid quickly, in a short timeframe and in a way that didn’t take excessive manpower.
Solution
ARDEX was specified for the tiling throughout for its rapid drying and non-slump properties.
The adhesion used for this project comprised of ARDEX EG 800 F Flowable epoxy grout and ARDEX X 18, a fibre reinforced flexible non-slump wall and floor tile adhesive. This was the ultimate solution because it contains specially developed fibres that add to the high compressive strength required for such a high traffic area.
Unique Elements
Often, grout needs to be applied individually into each tile joint. However, for such a large area and quick turnaround time needed, the ARDEX EG 800 F was ideal for this application method because it meant that the entire area could be flooded and ground back afterwards, ensuring an impressive amount of surface area was covered in a short amount of time.
Another aspect that made this a favourable choice is the broad coverage. Each kit is estimated to cover approximately sixteen square metres.
It is also extremely durable, stain proof and waterproof making it the best choice for the busy levels of traffic in the shopping centre.
The Bombora, Cronulla
APPLICATOR: Soleace Waterproofing
ARCHITECT: Vic Lakes Architects
The Bombora in Cronulla, NSW, are high end apartments situated at the edge of the beach. Positioned in an affluent area, neighbouring homes are often sold in excess of several million dollars.
The building features cutting edge architectural feats and promises a lifestyle for residents that is only often dreamt about. It features a sought-after penthouse balcony complete with swimming pool.
Given the luxury nature of these residences, a premium quality service and product were required.
ARDEX was selected by Soleace Waterproofing as the supplier of choice for this project, due to SystemARDEX offering and reliability of products and service.
Challenge
Despite the awe-inspiring views and close proximity to the shore, the location can pose a number of problems for the exterior of the building. Namely, the building and rooftop are often exposed to high winds and salt content in the air as well as other intense weather conditions such as high UV exposure.
Unique Elements
The unique elements comprised in this project was the need to complete the job efficiently and with durable and reliable products to withstand the distinctive environmental conditions, all without compromising on the elite aesthetic that the property needed to retain. Not only that, but the rooftop area was sizable for a residential project, coming in at 350 square metres.
Solution
The ARDEX products used were:
ARDEX WPM 717 – WeldTec Fleece-backed Waterproofing Membrane which is a weldable and fleece backed waterproofing membrane ideal for uneven substrates. It provides excellent resistance to ageing from heat, sunlight, atmospheric pollution and ozone. It’s also beneficial in horizontal or vertical applications for waterproofing decks and roofs that have residual moisture or are not perfectly flat and smooth.
ARDEX WPM 1000 – WeldTec External Undertile Waterproofing Membrane
This product is a versatile, external undertile waterproofing membrane ideal for use on balconies, roofs, decks, under tiles, pavers, and cavity door flashings and is known for its durability.
ARDEX WPM 002 is a tough, fast-drying two-component waterproofing membrane specifically designed for use under tiles. The product has been uniquely formulated with synthetic microfibres to increase its strength and eliminate the need for a separate reinforcement mat. Due to the high-end nature of the bathrooms and internal wet areas, ARDEX WPM 002, with its proven track-record in the Australian market, was the product of choice.
ARDEX WPM 300 two-component, water-based epoxy polyamide was the ideal membrane and barrier coating which is ideal for damp or drying concrete and internal wet areas, again selected to meet the demands of the humid environment.
Box Hill Pool Refurbishment
ARCHITECT: A1 Office Fitouts
CONTRACTOR: Bravada Building Services
Challenges:
The size of the project coupled with the tight timeframe resulted in various challenges for the contractor, Bravada Building Services. Firstly, the contractor was given only seven weeks to complete the pool refurbishment project, which is located between Spotlight and Anaconda in the Spotlight Retail Centre. In all, nine different ARDEX products were used, including 570sqm of WPM 002 Waterproofing Membrane and 540sqm of X 17 tile adhesive, FG 8 grout on the pool surrounds, change rooms, foyer and mosaic walls. Also used was 285sqm of WPM 405, an ARDEX additive that enhanced the strength of the screed.
ARDEX products were selected as they are completely compatible, easy to use, as well as being supported by a dedicated Technical Support Team and manufacturer’s guarantee.
Problem:
Bravada Building Services were confronted with a significant challenge as the pool surround was quiet shallow for the screed (minimum thickness and achieving minimum fall requirements 1:100). Due to the thickness issues and the Scyon installation patterns, Bravada Building Services decided to use a self-supporting screed which included a slip sheet with expanded metal reinforcing. ARDEX WPM 405 additive was also used to increase the compressive strength, ultimately giving the contractor’s peace of mind.
The tiling also resulted in a challenge due to tile choices and the layout of patterns. However, the reliability and consistency of ARDEX X 17 tile adhesive provided the contractors with the confidence they needed. ARDEX X 17 was installed in multiple locations and environments such as the pool deck surround, change rooms, showers and foyer areas.
Solution
With a project of this magnitude and complexity it was crucial that all products and techniques selected were not only suitable for the environment but were also compatible. Given the confidence in the ARDEX range of products, Bravada Building Services had no hesitation in using an ARDEX System for this project.
Unique Elements:
Without doubt, ARDEX WPM 002 and WPM 405 were the two key products that made this project such a success. However, ARDEX does not believe that their responsibility ends with the manufacture of innovative and specialist solutions. ARDEX’ Sales Representative, Brett O’Loughlin, provided Bravada Building Services with technical support before, during and after the installation. The support provided from the ARDEX Team, including in-depth training on a huge variety of products and techniques all influenced the outcome of this installation.
The Elan, Sydney
CONSULTANT: Diagnostech
BUILDER: Biltbeta
At 136 meters, 40 stories, The Elan is one of the tallest residential apartment blocks in Sydney. The building is also situated in the highest part of Kings Cross, 45 meters above sea level. Built in 1997, there are 18,200 cubic meters of concrete and 2,550 tonnes of reinforcing steel in The Elan.
Challenge
20 years after it was built, The Elan required a complete façade overhaul that included crack and joint repairs, she-blot repairs, spalling concrete, render repair, concrete crack injection, balustrade post repairs and façade coating systems. Furthermore, several balconies required re-waterproofing. ARDEX Australia in conjunction with the consultant specified a wholistic solution that included a complete, fully warrantable SystemARDEX approach. Works commenced in May 2016 and are expected to be completed early 2018. The size of the building makes it one of the largest façade restoration projects currently in Sydney.
Solution
Before work on the façade coating could start, concrete repairs were essential on parts of the building. Spalling concrete and she-bolt hole repairs were rectified with ARDEX BR 345 MICROTEC® Fibre-Reinforced, High Resistivity, Polymer-Modified, Structural Concrete Patching and Repair Mortar and ARDEX BR 120 FC Polymer-Modified, Fibre-Reinforced Fairing Coat.
Areas that were affected by cracks in concrete were reinstated by using ARDEX RA 88 Multi-Purpose Epoxy Repair Adhesive to adhere ARDEX T-Ports, a unique pressure injection port system, before injecting ARDEX RA 142 Super Low Viscosity Structural Concrete Crack Injection Epoxy for hairline cracks and ARDEX RA 144 Low Viscosity Structural Concrete Crack Injection Epoxy for cracks that were wider than 1mm. For render repairs, ARDEX WR Prime Performance Enhancing Polymer Primer & Additive was used in conjunction with ARDEX WR 100 General Purpose Acrylic Render.
There was a large number of joints that needed to be repaired and re-sealed. Throughout the project, a range of ARDEX sealants were used including ARDEX CA 20 P Multipurpose Construction Adhesive and Sealant, ARDEX RA 030 One Component, Moisture-Curing Expansion Joint Sealant and ARDEX RA 040 Polyurethane Joint Sealant.
The specified façade coating system included the use of two coats of ARDEX WPM 300, a two-component water based epoxy polyamide membrane/barrier coating, followed by two coats of ARDEX WPM 330 External Anti-Carbonation Façade Membrane.
Unique Elements
Due to the size of the structure, there was a significant amount of product required to coat the façade. In total, there are approximately 35,000 litres of WPM 300 and an additional 35,000 litres of WPM 330 that were used for the façade coating system.
Dennis Stephenson, Managing Director of Diagnostech Pty Ltd provided the following comment: “We selected ARDEX at the design stage because ARDEX were really the only supplier who offered the full system warranty. The project required compatibility between all products including sealants, render repairs, concrete repairs and coatings. This ultimately provided a level of comfort to the client, knowing that this full system compatibility had been considered and agreed between Consultant, Supplier and Contractor.
We also appreciated the fact that ARDEX were willing to assist Diagnostech with ongoing quality control inspections as the works progressed. This has certainly contributed to what has been a very successful façade refurbishment project.”
MYER Shopping Centre, Cairns
The specification of 10,000m of timber flooring at Myer Cairns, a market leader in Australian retailing, required a guaranteed system to overcome the high moisture levels in the concrete slab.
ARDEX WPM 300, ARDEX K 15 and ARDEX E 25 provided the system.
A tight construction schedule, as is often the case with new shopping centres, did not allow for the natural drying of the concrete slab. In addition the air-conditioning could not be operational at the time of installation of the timber flooring (a recommendation of both Australian Standards and the flooring manufacturers).
Recognising that the concrete moisture content was over the allowable limit, the specification was written to install ARDEX WPM 300, topped with a 4mm layer of ARDEX K 15. The former, as the name suggests, prevents moisture in the slab from travelling to the floor covering and causing it to warp or delaminate. ARDEX K 15 provides a smooth flat porous surface for the conventional laying of floor-coverings and also protects the moisture barrier against damage.
A number of years and millions of footsteps later the timber flooring continues to look great, testimony that the system works.
Lotte Department Store, Seoul
INSTALLER: Lotte Engineering & Construction Co., Ltd
CHALLENGES:
- Porcelain tile installation over a busy train station (8,000 m2 /86,114 ft2)
- PANDOMO® Wall installation in the food court (1,600 m2/17,223 ft2)
- Cellulose Fiber Cement (CRC) board substrate
- Expedited installation time frame
PROBLEMS:
Built over a busy train station, the eight-story Lotte Department Store in Seoul, Korea would challenge most tile installations and wall renderings. A tile adhesive was needed to absorb the trains vibrations and have a longer working time because of high temperature in Seoul, Korea. ARDEX was asked to test their tile adhesives for the project. After the tests proved successful, ARDEX tile adhesives were approved for the installation. The developer of the project also requested the PANDOMO ® materials to be used on the exterior of the building. Since PANDOMO ® Wall is specifically designed for interior applications, the ARDEX Technical Team worked with the contractor to find a solution.
SOLUTION:
Lotte Engineering & Construction started by coating the installation surfaces with ARDEX ABA 660.V Acrylic Primer. An acrylic primer was specified for this project, because it not only creates a strong bond, but also for its flexibility. ARDEX ABA 660.V uses the most advanced acrylic polymer technology; it is totally resistant to re-emulsification in the hot humid conditions associated with the summer months in Korea.
Tile installation areas received a combination of ARDEX STS 8 Superior Tensile Strength Tile adhesive and ARDEX E 90 Mortar Admix. Developed for use in areas where movement is anticipated and over fibrous cement board, the combination of these two products creates a superior bond and offers increased flexibility. Once the tiles were placed, joints were filled with ARDEX FG 8 Flexible Coloured Grout. ARDEX FG 8 was selected, because it is polymer fortified, making it flexible to resist cracking from the vibrations caused by the train station below. ARDEX FG 8 is mould and water resistant, and its smooth finish also reduces the amount of trapped pollutants, making it perfect for a busy department store installation.
To give the food court a luxurious feel, PANDOMO® Wall was applied. PANDOMO® Wall was the best choice for this installation because of its bond strength, and superior tensile strength. PANDOMO® Wall can be customized to create a unique visual experience by selecting from various colour options and textures. These properties help guarantee a longlasting beautiful installation.
Because of the ARDEX Sales and Technical Teams, Lotte Department Store can expect their beautiful, low maintenance installation will last over a long period of time.
Dubai Mall, Dubai
INSTALLER: ASCON Marble & Granite LLC Plus Painting Works LLC
BUILDER: Dutco Balfour Beatty LLC Al Ghandi & Consolidated Contractors Company
ARCHITECT: DP Architects PTE LTD
CHALLENGES:
- Largest shopping mall in the world
- Very heavy traffic requirements
- Fast track project
- Avoid cracking or staining of the 200,000 m2 natural stone floor that was light in colour
- Work schedules of contractors
PROBLEMS:
Stretching over 1,114,800m2 (12 million ft2) with a floor area of 548,110m2 (5.9 million ft2), the Dubai Mall is one of the largest retail shopping malls in the world. Containing a mixture of urban design principles, this amazing structure contains more than 1000 stores and offers leisure area attractions including a shark tank, an Olympic size skating rink and theme park. To date, the mall contains more steel than the total amount used in the Eiffel Tower and 193,000m2 of stone has been placed. Originally scheduled completion in 2006, the Dubai Mall opened in 2008.
SOLUTION:
Working with the ARDEX Singapore Representative, the specification written by DP Architects listed specific ARDEX products by name, recommended ARDEX qualified contractors for installation and all recommended testing to be completed for the project.
For this flooring installation the existing concrete was primed with ARDEX P 51 Primer, this would seal the substrate and help ensure a strong bond. ARDEX EP 2000 Epoxy Primer was used to prime and fill cracks in preparation to receive the ARDEX K 15 Self- Levelling Underlayment.
Because this was such a large floor installation, ARDEX K 15 Self-Levelling Underlayment was specified. ARDEX K 15 is ideal for large installations, because it can be pumped or poured into place making it easy to use. ARDEX K 15 is formulated with a special blend of polymers to prevent shrinkage and create a smooth, flat surface.
To ensure there would be no tile staining from moisture caused by vapour diffusion a layer of ARDEX WPM 002 Waterproofing Membrane was used. WPM 002 is a strong, fast drying two-component waterproof membrane that is formulated with synthetic microfibers to increase strength and eliminate the need for a separate reinforcement mat. WPM 002 has been designed to use with ARDEX tile adhesives. It does not re-emulsify and accommodates normal building movement which eliminates steps that would be needed with competitors’ products. WPM 002 is fast drying and controls excess construction moisture in the subfloor, so it helped the crew move forward on the project at a steady pace.
ARDEX A 35 Screed was the next step in the Dubai Mall floor installation. A 35 is a rapid setting and drying cement for floor screeds with a compressive strength of 40 N/mm2 (5,800 psi) and can be applied bonded, unbonded or floating. It was developed with ARDEX RapiDry Technology which allowed
the installers to move onto the next step of the installation.
The final part of the installation included placing the natural stone tiles. ARDEX S 16 Natural Stone Adhesive was used to place the stones and then grout with ARDEX MG Grout. S 16 is the preferred adhesive when placing natural stone tiles in areas that are intermittently damp. This would further help prevent the staining of tiles in areas that can get wet, since staining is often associated with moisture issues. MG Grout was selected because of its ARDEX RapiDry formulation, which allows it to dry internally preventing moisture from staining the natural stone. It is also suitable for areas that are intermittently wet, so it would not be affected by potential water spills from one of the many fountains in the mall.
The Dubai Mall had the largest single day retail mall opening with nearly 600 stores present on November 4th, 2008. To ensure there would be no tile staining from moisture caused by vapour diffusion a layer of ARDEX WPM 002 Waterproofing Membrane was used. ARDEX WPM 002 is a strong, fast drying two-component waterproof membrane that is formulated with synthetic microfibers to increase strength and eliminate the need for a separate reinforcement mat. ARDEX WPM 002 has been designed to use with ARDEX tile adhesives. It does not re-emulsify and accommodates normal building movement which eliminates steps that would be needed with competitors’ products. ARDEX WPM 002 is fast drying and controls excess construction moisture in the subfloor, so it helped the crew move forward on the project at a steady pace.
The Dubai Mall had the largest single day retail mall opening with nearly 600 stores present on November 4th, 2008.
The Hub Apartments, Richmond
CONTRACTORS: Waterproofing – Better Waterproofing Pty Ltd; Tiling – Becca’s Tiling Services
The Hub Apartments provide residents with the heart and soul of Richmond’s inner urban lifestyle.
The complex consisting of one and two bedroom apartments features balconies with spectacular views in addition to a unique central garden courtyard that provides natural light and a private environment from the outside world.
ARDEX Australia was nominated as the preferred supplier as a company that could provide holistic solutions that catered for the needs of the project. The waterproofing and tiling contractors worked seamlessly to deliver the project on time and in a smooth, efficient manner.
The Hub was completed using a full System ARDEX solution, from waterproofing through to the finished tiled surfaces.
A number of ARDEX products were used in construction of The Hub Apartments including ARDEX WPM 155 Rapid. 5000 square metres of ARDEX WPM 155 Rapid was used due to the quick turnaround times and ease of substrate preparation. In addition to ARDEX WPM 155 Rapid, the ARDEX system included ARDEX Grout for internal wet areas and the tiled balconies. ARDEX WPM 179 was used in conjunction with a catalyst to waterproof over 200 square metres of planter boxes. The catalyst was used so that the membrane formed an immediate skin, so that rain threatening rain wouldn’t wash off the membrane. Also, over 300 square metres of ARDEX WPM 002 was used to waterproof external terraces over basements. Finally, ARDEX WPM 150 and ARDEX WPM 185 torch applied membranes were used to waterproof 2000 square metres of roof and terraces.
Sandgate Apartments, 51 Ashburner St, Manly
INSTALLER/APPLICATOR/GENERAL CONTRACTOR: Tecorp Constructions
CHALLENGE:
The 8 storey building “Sandgate Apartments” is approximately 45 years old and located in what has been described as a “severe marine environment” within 100 metres of the South Steyne Beach, Manly NSW. The existing clay brick façade has deteriorated due to salt penetration and crystallisation over the years that have resulted in fretting/spalling of the exposed brick faces.
PROBLEM/SITUATION:
Bricks needed to be high-pressure water blasted to remove surface salts in order to get a good bond of the render system. Due to the location of the building in a severe marine environment, the façade needed adequate protection from salt ingress and sea spray. Also, in combination with the ARDEX Render System, the application of ARDEX WPM 310 would provide a weather-proof barrier and a contemporary look of the façade.
SOLUTION:
- Remove and replace defective bricks and cut out any sections where the brick mortar is deteriorated to expose sound solid mortar and re-point with new mortar as necessary to achieve a flat surface. Allow to harden before proceeding.
- All existing painted surfaces to have a 2-3 mm scratch coat of ARDEX WR 60 and WR Prime.
- On all existing masonry brickwork to install ARDEX WR 100 and WR Prime applied as base coat.
- One coat of ARDEX WPM 270 as the prime coat prior to the application of the façade coating.
- Apply the ARDEX WPM 310 Façade Coating over the dry primed surface in two coats at a minimum 300 microns per coat.
ARDEX was able to provide a complete compatible system for the rectification of the façade of this prime water-front apartment block along Manly beach, adding value for the owner’s investment for the years to come.
Oracle Apartments, Broadbeach
INSTALLER: BAT Tiling
BUILDER: Niecon Developments Pty Ltd
ARCHITECT: Niecon Developments Pty Ltd.
CHALLENGES:
– One 40 level and one 50 level tower
– Mixed use development
– Multiple tile applications
PROBLEMS:
As part of a redevelopment plan to turn Broadbeach into a high-end ‘live-work-play’ destination, an $850 million investment was provided to build two modern towers, the Oracle Broadbeach Apartments. Niecon Development specified ARDEX products as the solution to this challenge. In doing so, they received complete peace of mind knowing ARDEX tile adhesives are high quality products compatible with marble, vitrified and ceramic tile.
SOLUTION:
BAT Tiling worked with ARDEX Australia to offer a SYSTEMARDEX solution. SYSTEMARDEX is a complete regiment of high quality, compatible tiling, flooring and waterproofing products matched with unparalleled technical and field support. Each product is engineered through meticulous research and developed with feedback from contractors, specifiers, manufacturers and clients.
Starting with one of the markets fastest drying acrylic membranes, installers applied ARDEX WPM 002 Superflex Bathroom and Balcony Two Part Waterproofing Membrane where needed. WPM 002 specifically addresses internal moisture issues under tiles. Because WPM 002 is microfiber reinforced, a reinforcing mat is not needed In non-exposed permanent immersion areas.
Once the waterproofing membrane was sufficiently dry, screeds were placed throughout the building. To ensure the screeds would have strong bonds, high shears and tensile strengths ARDEX Abacrete Bonding Agent was addedAbacrete is a non-toxic liquid polymer additive designed specifically for use with screeds and renders. This additive also improves water resistance in the flooring.
To ensure the tile adhesives would bond appropriately to the substrates, ARDEX Multiprime Water-Based Primer was recommended. Multiprime is easy to apply using a sponge, brush or roller. This process saves time and creates a strong bond between the screed and adhesive. Where necessary, ARDEX Abaflex Premium Polymer Modified Flexible Tile Adhesive was applied, and ARDEX DS 40 Impact Sound Reduction and Decoupling system was placed. Abaflexs’ eight-hour cure time allows contractors to quickly move forward with the project. Abaflex is a good choice because of its flexibility in accommodating cracks (up to .9mm) created by building movement. DS 40 enhanced the luxury of the multipurpose building by reducing impact noise transfer from tenants above. DS 40 acoustic mats are pre-cut for easy application and can be placed over various substrates. DS 40 can also be directly tiled over using an ARDEX tile adhesive.
To accommodate the variety of tiles used in the building, ARDEX X 10 Flexible Non Slump Wall and Floor Tile Adhesive was recommended. X 10 is a polymer modified, cement-based wall and floor tile adhesive created with mastic properties ideal for all tile types. The mastic properties prevent sagging and movement in flooring and wall tile installation, maintaining the level of quality required by general contractors.
Once tiles were placed, ARDEX grouts were used as the final step. Where pigmented grout was required, ARDEX FG 8 Flexible Coloured Grout for Tile Joints 1 to 8 mm wide was used. FG 8 may be used on floors and walls and is easy to apply using a rubber trowel. Because it contains anti-mould agents and water repellents, the appearance and overall cleanliness of the rooms is easily maintained. FG 8 also cures to a smooth finish reducing the amount of trapped dirt and airborne contaminants.
Wherever a wider joint width occurred, ARDEX Wide Joint Sanded Cement-Based Grout was applied. This grout is shrink-resistant, and is especially suited for wider joints ranging from 5 to 15 mm. It can be used for floor or wall applications, around swimming pools and showers, and is available in a range of colours. For all carpeted areas, ARDEX AF 266 Outdoor Carpet Adhesive was recommended. This water-based adhesive has a low odor, so it is ideal for indoor use. ARDEX recommended this product, because it is resistant to the frequent, commercial grade cleaning expected in a luxury multi-purpose high rise.
Each of the products used for this project are part of the SYSTEMARDEX solution.
