Challenging Apartment Deck Membrane Replacement No Problem with ARDEX

What began as a straightforward replacement of a 48-year old membrane turned into a more complex project, with the need to create a fall using a lightweight system that wouldn’t raise the height of the parapet.

Constructed in 1975, the impressive apartments have provided high-quality apartment living in Takapuna for almost 50 years. The apartments feature a sub penthouse suite on the second to top floor with large paved terraces with views to Lake Pupuke and the Gulf Harbour. When minor leaks were discovered in the terraces during work to the apartment below, the owners decided to replace the almost 50-year old membrane — an expectedly straightforward project, until the terrace paving was removed…

As the original membrane detailed was Butynol, Fat Parrot Architecture had previously contacted ARDEX for the project, originally with a brief for a lightweight undertile waterproofing solution. They developed a plan to use ARDEX UD150 — a thin, mesh-reinforced plastic drainage mat used directly under adhered tiled surfaces — on a thin screed bed.

“The original finish was concrete pavers approximately 40mm thick, and the drawings detailed the supporting slabs to be laid to falls,” explains Graeme Fanselow, Director, Fat Parrot Architecture. “But when the pavers were uplifted it was discovered that the slabs had in fact been laid level, with the pavers set on non-continuous beds of mortar under just their corners to create the falls — not a full mortar screed.”

At this point, a new approach was required, with the key limitations being weight — which couldn’t exceed what was installed previously, and the height of the parapet — which the homeowners did not want increased. This effectively ruled out the possibility of using a chair deck system for the new tiles, so a direct fix system on a new substrate built to the required falls was needed.

This created new challenges for the project as any new solution would need to create the fall required, while still maintaining the original height and weight. The ARDEX team worked with Fat Parrot to find a system that would resolve all issues. “ARDEX were very helpful,” says Graeme. “As things weren’t what was expected, they arranged site meetings when needed to work together and sort out the situation.”

Different build-up options were considered before they reached the final solution. “The lightweight grouts were still proving to be too heavy so we then investigated their polystyrene base — we were able to work with them on minimum thicknesses of different grouts, how thick the base could be, and whether that was going to be too much weight — we ended up right on the limit. That lightweight construction underneath allowed us to build the falls we required.”

The final build-up features a custom combination of ARDEX products. ARDEX K12 screed and ARDEX A 48 Rapid Screed unbonded have been applied above the concrete slab, with ARDEX WPM 1000 membrane installed on top. ARDEX WPM 002 liquid membrane was also used over flashing on the parapet upstand. The originally specified ARDEX UD 150 mesh-reinforced plastic drainage mat was then applied. Featuring a 6mm drainage channel, the mat allows free passage of water underneath the tiled surface to speed up drying after rainfall. ARDEX X 18 tile adhesive, ARDEX FG 8 Grout and ARDEX Grout Booster complete the installation to form a compliant build-up for the direct-fixed tiles above.

The system was installed over a 300m² area by Best Skills Limited, an applicator trained by ARDEX to ensure reliability across both specification and installation. The final system is completely unique to ARDEX and enabled them to achieve below minimal threshold requirements.

The highly bespoke system developed for the project highlights the flexibility of ARDEX’s systems, and the technical support and problem-solving expertise the ARDEX team bring to each project. “ARDEX were excellent,” says Graeme. “They gave us good technical support and have been very helpful.”

Photo Credit: David St George

ARDEX Systems at Botanic Villas

The Botanic Retirement Village in Silverdale, Auckland, is an expansive 8-hectare development designed to offer premium, resort-style living. Among its standout features are the clubhouse and pool house, which play a crucial role in creating a luxurious and functional environment for its residents. To ensure these high-traffic and moisture-prone areas met the highest standards, a robust and sophisticated solution was essential.

For this project, ARDEX provided a comprehensive system of advanced waterproofing and tiling solutions. The ARDEX WPM 002 waterproofing system was chosen for its superior durability and moisture protection. This cutting-edge, fibre-reinforced liquid membrane features advanced acrylic polymers that deliver reliable water proofing and long-term performance. The system is designed to handle the rigors of high-use environments, maintaining its integrity and effectiveness over time.

Complementing the waterproofing system, ARDEX X 18 tile adhesive was selected for its exceptional bonding strength and flexibility. This polymer-fortified, fibre reinforced, cement-based adhesive is ideal for areas exposed to heavy use and moisture, such as the pool house. It ensures a strong, durable bond that withstands the demands of high-traffic environments.

For the finishing touch, ARDEX FG 8 grout was applied. This grout offers excellent colour stability and mould resistance, thanks to ARDEX Grout Shield technology. Its flexibility and smooth application ensure a professional finish that maintains both function and aesthetic appeal in wet and dry conditions.

Tomba Tiling Ltd handled the complete installation at The Botanic Retirement Village, applying ARDEX systems to the clubhouse and pool house with precision. For architects and designers seeking to incorporate cutting-edge waterproofing and tiling solutions into their projects, connect with our representatives to learn how ARDEX can support your next project today.

“Tomba Tiling played a crucial role in bringing the vision of The Botanic Retirement Village to life. Working in such a well-organized and supportive environment made it a pleasure for our team to deliver precise and high-quality installations. The seamless collaboration with the project team allowed us to focus on our craftsmanship, ensuring both the clubhouse and pool house were equipped with the highest standard of waterproofing and tiling solutions. Our attention to detail has resulted in luxurious, durable finishes that residents will enjoy for years to come. Tomba Tiling is proud to have been part of this exceptional and smoothly managed development.”

Ivana Maksimovska Taskov – Tomba Tiling

WAI ARIKI HOT SPRINGS & SPA

A beautiful and functional project delivered in a challenging geothermal location, Wai Ariki is a luxury spa located on the shores of Lake Rotorua, built on the legacy of Māori culture and Ngāti Whakaue healing practices. RCG Architects have worked with ARDEX previously and were confident in specifying trusted ARDEX waterproofing systems for the Wai Ariki project. As Wai Ariki sits on an active geothermal field ARDEX WPM 1500 specialist tanking and gas barrier membrane was specified across 7000m² to prevent the sulphur gas and water beneath from corroding the concrete. ARDEX WPM 1500 is made here in New Zealand and is specifically tested for our geothermal regions, so was the ideal selection for this project.

RCG Architects also needed to ensure the appropriate products were specified to ensure effective waterproofing of wet areas. ARDEX WPM 002 Two Component Undertile Liquid Waterproofing Membrane was used for floors, floor channels, swimming pools and shower areas within Wai Ariki. In total 3000m² of tiling was installed including ARDEX X 10 Flexible Non Slump Wall and Floor Tile Adhesive and ARDEX X 18 Fibre Reinforced Wall and Tile Adhesive. ARDEX EG 15 High Performance Epoxy Grout was also used for areas such as the stunning glass mosaics within pools. One of the major benefits to using ARDEX EG 15 is that it will not discolour after prolonged contact with the pool chemicals helping to maintain a clean, aesthetic look.

Photography by Jono Parker
www.jonoparker.com  | @parker | +64 21 235 6006

Residential Application of ARDEX WPM 1000

Best Skills Ltd are trade experts based in Auckland, specialising in waterproofing, tiling and flooring solutions. Recently Best Skills Ltd, who are ARDEX trained installers, installed various ARDEX products to transform the front porch of a stunning property in Remuera, Auckland.

To begin the project, ARDEX A 46, a slump-free external patching compound was used on the stairs and landing to prepare a nice smooth and finished surface. ARDEX RA 142 structural concrete crack injection was also used for its bonding and sealing capabilities. ARDEX WPM 300 water-based epoxy membrane was applied as a moisture barrier to help prevent rising damp and efflorescence. The porch then features ARDEX WeldTec® WPM 1000 as an undertile sheet waterproofing membrane for the landing, as well as ARDEX WPM 002 as an undertile liquid waterproofing membrane for the stairs. ARDEX X 18 fibre reinforced tile adhesive was used in both instances for extra strength and peace of mind. Finally, to complete the tiles high-performance epoxy grout ARDEX EG 15 was used.

The main objectives for the homeowners were to ensure that the porch was effectively waterproofed, as well as to reduce any efflorescence issues within the area. Using a range of ARDEX products Best Skills Ltd delivered a successful project.

ARDEX WeldTec® WPM 1000 is specifically designed to be used as an external waterproofing membrane for directly adhered tiled surfaces, or other non-exposed use. WPM1000 also acts as a decoupling membrane allowing it to act independently of the substrate should any movement occur reducing risk of cracked tiles/grout- particularly handy when the substrate is constructed with timber framing or in areas of vibration and thermal movement. ARDEX WPM 1000 also boasts excellent flexibility and durability, as well as strong resistance to tearing, cracking and bubbling, providing an excellent solution for the homeowner.

ARDEX WeldTec® membranes, including WPM 1000, are made locally in New Zealand. When installed by a trained ARDEX installer, ARDEX can provide a market-leading warranty, covering costs of repair, cost of reinstating the product or system, and costs of rectifying any material covering the product.

Retrofit Membrane Roofing at The Palms Shopping Centre

ARDEX WeldTec® WPM 715 made the ideal waterproofing solution for an existing roof at The Palms Shopping Centre in Christchurch. Combined with ARDEX Butyseal and Polyiso board the roof renovation was completed with minimum disruption to the 7,000 people in the community who use the centre. The shopping centre houses over 85 stores and covers 35,343 m² of retail floor area so it was important that it remained fully operational during the job.

Built in 1997, the metal ribbed tray roof had seen better days and was well overdue for a refresh. A system solution was developed to retrofit the roof in conjunction with Newfield Roofing. They began by infilling the pans with ARDEX Polyiso cut fingers to create an even surface prior to overlaying it with full sheet ARDEX Polyiso insulation boards. ARDEX WeldTec WPM 715 was then used to waterproof and finish the main roof area and ARDEX Butyseal was used in the gutters.

“We have always worked closely with the ARDEX team” says Mike Hill from Newfield Roofing “they help us find innovative solutions to help us solve our customers unique challenges”.

The ARDEX Polyiso Board has excellent thermal resistance and compressive strength suitable for adhered, ballasted and mechanically fastened single-ply roofing systems. The lightweight, easy-to-handle insulation was the perfect solution for use with the existing metal tray roof. ARDEX two pack Polyiso adhesive was used for the bonding of the Polyiso Boards. Newfield Roofing then installed WeldTec the BRANZ appraised heat welded waterproofing membrane designed for use in exposed areas. The membrane offers excellent resistance to aging from heat, UV and atmospheric agents, and displays flexibility at all temperatures, making it ideal for New Zealand weather and conditions.

ARDEX WeldTec® and Butyseal membranes are made locally in Christchurch and have a market-leading warranty. ARDEX reflect the confidence they have in their system by offering a warranty that provides for complete system replacement — a massive shift over standard market warranties, and another reason why ARDEX leads the way in membrane roofing. Combine this with ARDEX’s history of over 50 years in New Zealand, commercial building owners are given real peace of mind security.

Project credits:
Membrane Installer: Newfield Roofing

PAPAMOA SURF RESCUE BASE

The new Pāpāmoa Surf Rescue Base is a timely addition for the Pāpāmoa Surf Life Saving Club, which following population growth now services almost 30,000 people in the community. With such generous support through community fundraising and donations from local businesses, Jigsaw Architects looked to specify durable, high-performance materials which would serve the club for many years to come, while also being sensitive to budget constraints.

Initially a timber framed roof with a torch-applied bitumen roof was considered, but following discussion with the ARDEX team a more innovative approach was considered. Instead of using ply substrate, an inverted tray deck from Dimond Roofing was specified along with ARDEX’s Elevate UltraPly TPO membrane system. Elevate UltraPly TPO is heat reflective and resistant to shrinkage and cracking from UV radiation and ozone exposure, making it a smart choice for the beachfront build.

The inverted tray deck warm roof solution was the perfect choice for the surf club, providing the higher thermal performance that a warm roof offers at a lower overall build cost due to the substrate dramatically reducing framing requirements — from 400mm spans to 4m spans.

“The ability to move from a plywood framed roof system to a large span tray warm roof system while reducing the overall build cost forecast was a huge benefit for the design team who were facing budget constraints,” says Steve Miles, ARDEX Specification Manager.

ARDEX worked closely with Jigsaw Architects and Project Lead Jason Benton to ensure accurate detailing of the roof, and provided support on site for installers Arid Technologies. Arid Technologies are ARDEX trained installers and the quality of workmanship they provide is to a very high standard.

The longevity and reliability of the inverted tray warm roof is backed by a 20-year system warranty which covers right from the inverted metal tray deck to the TPO membrane and everything in between.

Project credits:
Architects: Jigsaw Architects
Contractor: Naylor Love
Membrane installer: Arid Technologies

LOCAL CHURCH BUILDING, SAMOA

Located in the beautiful island of Samoa, Ardex Butynol roofing was coloured specifically to meet the look and feel of the local community. This 1000m2 church was designed with aesthetics and durability in mind and Ardex Butynol was specified due to the excellent performance and because the colour could be customised.

ARDEX Butynol was the ideal choice as it has been a popular option in the Pacific Islands over the years due to its high heat and humidity resistance and outstanding results in long lasting water tightness. The synthetic rubber membranes properties resist ageing and breakdown due to heat, sunlight and ozone. It is extremely durable and remains flexible at all temperatures, making it ideal for the Pacific Island climate and conditions of Samoa.

Ardex Butynol is CodeMark Certified for use on roofs (and decks) on slopes with pitches to 1:100.  The roof was installed by experienced Ardex trained installers, AH Ben Construction, who installed this customised Butynol to a very high standard. This project was overseen by an Ardex representative, who travelled from New Zealand to ensure the project went smoothly.

In addition, the membrane would need to blend with the building and the local surroundings therefore a terracotta colour tint was customised for this project.

Another key factor in the decision to use an Ardex membrane was the market-leading warranty cover offered by Ardex. Ardex reflect the confidence they have in their system by offering a warranty that provides for complete system replacement — a massive shift over standard market warranties, and another reason why Ardex leads the way in membrane roofing.

Today, the unmissable terracotta roof of this Samoan church is a great visual piece for locals to enjoy and the membrane will ensure the building performs well to service the people and looks good for the many years to come.

ARDEX offer a bespoke, Butynol Made-to-Order service that can be used almost anywhere. We can make essentially any size, shape or colour such as liners for ponds, water and gas storage, surge tanks, erosion control or custom length rolls. Talk to Ardex today about made to order Butynol and how we can assist you with your next project.

Credits:

Membrane installation: AH Ben Construction

COASTAL RESIDENTIAL HOME, OMAHA

Located in the beachside town of Omaha, this 400m2 home was designed with durability and low maintenance in mind. For the roofing, the ARDEX Weldtec Roofing System was specified to ensure trusted weathertightness and high performance in the coastal location.

The architectural designer wanted a flexible, heat weldable membrane roof that would provide a high level of UV stability and would handle the thermal movement expected in timber framed buildings. In addition, the membrane would need to be suitable for use in the home’s beachside environment.

The ARDEX Weldtec Roofing System, which was designed in New Zealand for New Zealand conditions, met this brief and was specified for the home’s extensive roof. The ARDEX Weldtec Roofing System features ARDEX WPM 715 — a BRANZ appraised heat welded waterproofing membrane designed for use in exposed areas. The membrane offers excellent resistance to aging from heat, UV and atmospheric agents, and displays flexibility at all temperatures, making it ideal for the coastal property.

The ARDEX Weldtec 715 membrane was specified as a fully adhered complete roofing system using the Ardex range of adhesives and accessories. The roof was installed by experienced ARDEX approved installers, Mohan Waterproofing Services, who found installation straightforward with the welded join membrane and simple detailing making it easy to install the roof to a very high standard.

In addition to speeding up installation, the heat-welded installation of the Ardex Weldtec 715 system brings the added security of a strong, continuous membrane with welded laps and seams. And once installed, the membrane is warranted for domestic foot traffic, making home maintenance access easy, and also providing the option to use it on exposed decks.

Another key factor in the decision to use an ARDEX membrane was the market-leading warranty cover offered by ARDEX. ARDEX reflect the confidence they have in their system by offering a warranty that provides for complete system replacement — a massive shift over standard market warranties, and another reason why ARDEX leads the way in membrane roofing. Combine this with ARDEX’s history of over 50 years in New Zealand, and homeowners are given real peace of mind security.

Now finished, the roof of this Omaha home will look good and perform for many years to come, with the excellent weathertightness, UV resistance and temperature flexibility of the ARDEX Weldtec 715 membrane providing year-round high performance.

Historic Farmers Department Store Grand Tearoom

Located in the Heritage Hotel in Auckland, the space has been transformed into a New York-style loft penthouse. Featured in a recent episode of Grand Designs NZ, the design incorporated heritage features with modern urban industrial design, resulting in a stunning renovation of the 539m² heritage-listed space.

The bathrooms, with their amazing views across the Hauraki Gulf, used ARDEX WPM 750 Undertile Sheet Membrane for the undertile waterproofing. Made in Christchurch New Zealand, WPM 750 is the only internal wet area sheet membrane available in the NZ market that is weldable. The WPM 750 membrane speeds up project completion times. Unlike liquid waterproofing membranes, ARDEX WPM 750 gives a thin and consistent 0.5mm waterproofing gauge with no need to wait for liquids to dry. Solvent-free adhesive is first applied, followed by the membrane — rather like hanging wallpaper — and tiling can commence just one hour after the membrane is installed. A fleece on both sides of the fabric helps with tile application, while still excelling in durability and waterproofing capabilities. The laps of the membrane can be heat-welded using a Leister Hot Air Gun to ensure a standard thickness, limited application error and that all laps are securely joined, creating a fail-safe waterproofed area. WPM 750 also comes with a 15-year material guarantee. ARDEX WPM 1000 WeldTec membrane was also used for the external balcony areas.

On-site, the installer was able to utilise technical support from ARDEX who came to site to confirm the intended system application and assist with detailing to ensure the system was 100% waterproof. The systems included primers, adhesives and sealants all supplied by ARDEX to provide a full system warranty with all products compatible with each other from one supplier. The ARDEX recommended applicator, Best Skills Limited, used their knowledge and experience with ARDEX systems to confidently meet the tight time frame of the project.

For fail-safe waterproofing and fast-tracked project timing, the ARDEX WPM range offers superior benefits for all wet area projects.

Heathrow Airport

ARDEX teamed up with one of the UK’s leading flooring contractors, Loughton Contracts, to deliver a 40,000m²flooring refurbishment at Heathrow Airports Terminal 1. Boasting an excellent portfolio of successful large-scale commercial installations, the proven duo specified the perfect ARDEX system, which enabled final floorcoverings to be laid at the earliest opportunity.

The recent refurbishment of Terminal 1, which handles around 12 million passengers every year, encompassed the check-in, and baggage system and arrivals concourse, and resulted in passengers experiencing a faster and more comfortable journey from check-in to take off. Once the existing floorcoverings had been uplifted and the subfloors mechanically prepared, ARDITEX NA was applied.

ARDITEX NA has been developed for use on virtually all substrates and it can be laid from a feather edge up to at least 12mm in a single application. Offering excellent properties of adhesion and flexibility, ARDITEX NA is perfect for levelling concrete, cement/sand screeds, flooring grade asphalt, quarry tiles and even internal steel decks without priming. The ammonia free formulation proved an added bonus, making it perfect for use in such a high trafficked public area.

A combination of floorcoverings from Nora Flooring Systems UK Limited, namely Nora Ultra Grip rubber safety flooring, and Norament 925 Grano rubber floorcovering were fixed with ARDEX AF 2300 a rubber floorcovering adhesive.

Commenting on the project, John Collier, Sales Director of Loughton Contracts said “This large installation required a proven, fast track solution that would ensure minimum disruption to the airport. By working with ARDEX we could deliver exceptional results, and the peace of mind that is synonymous with ARDEX products, assured a rapid and perfect finish, completed on schedule”.