LITTLE LANE EARLY LEARNING CENTRE, MANLY
Our friends over at ARDEX Australia have just completed a fantastic early learning project in Manly Beach. Little Lane Centre is a purpose built, architecturally designed childcare facility located in Manly, NSW. The centre provides a premium service to the area, focusing on children’s early learning and childhood education from 0-5 years.
Unique Elements
The 3-storey building features a commercial kitchen, 14 classrooms, 3 large outdoor learning environments including a roof garden area, and below ground level car park. Specific project stages required a fast turnaround, hence why Systems ARDEX was used on this project.
The outdoor learning and play area, and planter boxes are located over habitual spaces. These critical areas required a reliable and proven waterproofing system to ensure the entire area would remain waterproof for many years to come.
The below ground car park presented a different challenge as the building is situated near proximity to Manly beach. This area is susceptible to continuously changing underground water pressure and water ingress due to the ever-changing tides. A waterproofing system was required that could withstand those pressures while protecting the surrounding environment and structure from damage.
Solution
ARDEX was chosen because of our systems approach. A complete ARDEX waterproofing system was specified to not only provide a quick turnaround, but for reliability as well.
For the outdoor learning and play area, and planter boxes, 1200m² of a system comprising of ARDEX WPM 1000 and ARDEX Root Repell waterproofing membranes was installed. Both waterproofing membrane systems are specially designed for this type of external environment.
ARDEX WPM 1000 is a unique and extremely versatile heat weldable waterproofing membrane. ARDEX Root Repell is designed specifically for areas exposed to soil and plants, containing a root inhibitor that repels root growth without killing the actual root.
Approximately 2800m² of ARDEX WPM 1500 tanking membrane was installed in the below ground car park. ARDEX WPM 1500 is designed specifically for below ground tanking applications and has excellent flexibility, elongation and water migration resistance.
Overall, the ARDEX specification made it easier for the architect, builder, and applicators to purchase, install, and warrant the materials.
Airport, Newcastle
A major $80 million expansion of Newcastle Airport has recently been completed to transform the existing airport and create a second international airport for NSW. The expansion saw the terminal size double and facilities improved to cater for international ights. ARDEX was specified for the tiling throughout.
ARDEX S 16 (with ARDEX E 90) was used to lay 1600 sqm of natural stone throughout the arrivals and departure lounges of the airport. ARDEX S 16 locks in moisture and reduced the risk of eflorescence and water marks on the natural stone tiles that were laid. Recently, ARDEX S 16 has been replaced with the superior ARDEX S 28 Neu, an Ardurapid, Microtec stone and tile adhesive.
ARDEX X 10 was ideal for use over the membranes and provides excellent slump resistance for both wall and floor tiles. ARDEX X 10 provides mastic type properties.
In addition to the Natural Stone, a further 1000m2 of bathroom tiling that included both walls and floors was also laid and waterproofed using the ARDEX WPM 155 Rapid Waterproong System with ARDEX STB Tape. This system allowed the wet areas to be tiled in as little as four hours after the application of the membrane, an added benet particularly for projects with a tight timeline.
CHALLENGES:
A sample of the Natural Stone was supplied by Newcastle Tile Company to the ARDEX Technical Team and a specication was issued for the complete tiling system catering for this type of natural stone. The natural stone was thermally sensitive (susceptible to the effect of heat and light) so a speciality tile adhesive ARDEX S 16 along with ARDEX E 90 was specied and used. In addition, the floor was also levelled where necessary to x undulations between old and new slabs.
“The development of Newcastle Airport to accommodate international flights is a huge step forward for both tourism and the growing population in the area,” explained ARDEX Account Manager, Jeff Anderson.
“It is exciting to witness investment in infrastructure and ARDEX is proud to be involved in such an iconic project.”
Aotea Center
Architect: Stevenson and Turner
Engineer: Aurecon Group
Construction Company: NZ Strong
Installer: Giacon Terrazzo ltd
Scope: Level 2 entry Stairs and Ramp
The Aotea Centre is a performing arts and events centre / theatre in the Auckland CBD. Located in the heart of New Zealand’s most populated city, the Centre provides a cultural and entertainment venue space for a vast range of comedic, dance & drama and musical performances year-round.
ARDEX was specified to create a trafficable, entrance ramp and monolithic floor design encapsulating and reusing the uplifted Italian marble floor that was originally installed in 1990. The crushed Italian marble was introduced into the ARDEX PC-T white leveling compound to create the desired aggregate finish. The completed floor also needed to be strong and durable enough to withstand constant pedestrian and moderate pneumatic vehicle traffic across the finished ramp.
Although a trafficable ramp may seem like a straight forward job, the ramp was constructed using timber plywood structure over the existing concrete surface; meaning it was susceptible to differential movement. ARDEX was able to overcome this limitation with Aurecon Group to create a robust timber support with three layers of structural plywood followed by the installation of a customized ARDEX System. The specified ARDEX System was as follows:
ARDEX WPM 1000 slip layer
ARDEX A 38 Rapid set Engineered screed cement at 50 mm
ARDEX MC Rapid one coat moisture control system
ARDEX PC-T with the approved aggregate at 10 mm
ARDEX PC 10 Lithium Hardener
ARDEX PC Finish
Lastly, the flight of stairs shown in the photos were pre cast off site and installed using an approved ARDEX Adhesive system directly to the new timber structure. The stair profiles were also fitted with an approved non-skid nosing, which was inserted into the pre-cast mould.
The Aotea centre is now looking better than ever and welcomes guests to check out and view their new, grand ARDEX flooring system.
Halsey Street Apartments – Auckland Marina
Architect: Athfield Architects
Applicator: MPM Waterproofing
Project Size: 3600m2 (Balconies 2700m2 | Roof 900m2)
The Halsey Street Apartments are a great addition to the Wynyard Quarter. A perfect contrast of a waterfront location and an inner-city vibe, these apartments have fantastic contemporary designs making for both interior and exterior luxury. 132 Halsey Street offers a limited number of premium apartments with spectacular views of Auckland’s skyline and marina.
A full ARDEX System was specified for all the apartment balconies and the roof, reaching just over 3600m2 of installed product in total. The ARDEX Warm Roof system comprised of two areas, one over plywood and the 2nd over concrete. For the concrete area WPM 300 was utilised as a moisture barrier/vapor barrier to prevent rising damp. On top of this, our 101mm Polyiso insulation board was adhered down using our Polyiso adhesive. Because roof substrate was concrete and the project was in a high wind zone, it was a huge cost saving of labour to use adhesive rather than pre drilling holes through the vapor barrier and using a tremendous amount of screw fixings. This method allowed for the Polyiso board to be fixed at 300mm ribbons ensuring that the board will be able to withstand up to 6kPa wind loads. Lastly, the base sheet WPM 117- and top membrane ARDEX WPM 189 – black was installed for the final finish. For the timber areas of the roof, WPM 3000X was used as a vapor barrier due to its ability to self-seal around the mechanical fasteners.
This warm roof system was specified because of our 101mm Firestone Polyiso Insulation Board and close working relationship with the waterproofing applicator- MPM roofing. Our insulation board has a high Long-Term Thermal Resistance (LTTR) rating and carries the internationally recognized PIMA quality mark certification. Even though this is a torch-applied roofing system, the application system has decreased the risks associated by installing the WPM 117 base sheet overtop of the primed insulation board. WPM 117 also allows for a faster installation, as this first layer of waterproofing doesn’t involve heat so can be applied instantaneously – resulting in roof areas being made watertight extremely fast!
With over 7 ARDEX products being used to comply with a full SystemARDEX warm roof installation and a 20/20 Warranty, the Halsey apartments are waterproof! Next time your strolling through the Viaduct, make sure to gaze upon the Halsey Street Apartments – a great addition to Auckland’s Wynyard Quarter.
Air New Zealand Head Office
Builder: Q Projects
Architect: Context Architects
Developer: Air New Zealand
Installer: Sansom
An award-winning company like Air New Zealand requires a high-end, efficient office complex to run all the behind the scenes work. The Air New Zealand Headquarters is a sizable 15,600m2, six-story building located in Auckland’s waterfront precinct. With the build being completed in 2005 it has since needed vast remedial repairs including waterproofing issues on the ground level. Due to the offices being built on reclaimed land and being several story’s deep the project requires quality products and quality installation.
This was the second attempt at remediating the tiled outdoor podium area which was leaking through onto the underground car-parking below. ARDEX was specified for the remedial work after working closely with the specifier to provide a comprehensive and unique product system tailored to the specific requirements of the project. With over 10 ARDEX products used throughout the project, ARDEX can ensure the durability and high quality of the new waterproofing system.
ARDEX WPM 114 vented base sheet was specified atop of the ARDEX A 38 rapid set cement screed across the outdoor areas. ARDEX WPM 114 allows any residual moisture from the leak to dissipate out, and not cause any detriment to the membrane system; reducing any requirement for additional moisture barriers. ARDEX A 38 allowed for a quick curing time to minimize the wait on the important walkway and has great work-ability to ensure that rainfall can be channeled to outlets rather than being able to pool. ARDEX’s on-site technical support helped along the way offering solutions to difficult factors such as the high surface temperatures experienced in the peak of summer at 56 degrees Celsius on some surfaces.
In addition to the podium, the Air New Zealand entrance ramp needed to be remedied so that it could withstand high volumes of foot traffic in an exposed area. The ramp required a solution that allowed a tile finish but would be suitable for the gradient necessary. A floating tile system would not suffice, nor would attempting to adhere to a bituminous membrane. ARDEX provided the unique, New Zealand-made solution of the WeldTec membrane ARDEX WPM 1000. The membrane is lined with a fleece specifically designed for the direct adhesions of tiling systems internally or externally. As the original remedial work involved a floating tiling system, this membrane was the most sensible solution offering the security of adhered tiles on the incline and being fully compatible with ARDEX tiling systems.
Air New Zealand can now get back to focusing on flying planes and be confident that the installed ARDEX products will stand the test of time.
Rydges Hotel Wellington Airport
Architect: Archaus
Installers: Warmup & Pololitos
Tile Supplier: Tile Warehouse
The Rydges Hotel Wellington is in a prime location right above the international terminal at the Wellington airport. A perfect spot for travellers seeking a convenient location to experience New Zealand’s cosy capital city. With a strong focus on great design this 4-star hotel complex offers 134 stylish and comfortable rooms ideal for either business or leisure purposes.
Because the architects valued quality and durability, they specified ARDEX tiling and waterproofing products to be a part of this $36 million-dollar project. The size of this build was significant, with a combined total area of over 2100m2 of installed ARDEX DS70, ARDEX X 52 tile adhesive, ARDEX Quickbond adhesive, ARDITEX NA floor leveller and ARDEX undertile WeldTec membrane ARDEX WPM 750 .
ARDEX WPM 750 was specified in 130 bathrooms and showers as well as all corridors including the main lobby. ARDEX WPM 750 was the selected membrane of choice for its ability to be heat-welded which adds security and its fleece-lined formulation which allows for the direct adhesion of tiled surfaces. ARDEX WPM 750 has excellent flexibility, durability, and superior resistance to tearing, cracking, bubbling and absorption – perfect for a hotel situation. To ensure full quality of the tiling systems, ARDEX representatives worked very closely with the waterproofing installers Warmup and the tiling installers Pololitos with frequent site visits and regular communication to guarantee the workmanship matched the project requirements.
Now that this fantastic hotel complex is finished and open to the public. Make sure you book yourself a night’s stay and see for yourself that the luxury and premium quality you feel begins at the roots of the hotel’s structure – ARDEX; the quality leader for an entire industry.
SO/Auckland Hotel
Developer: CP Group
Installer: Advanced Tiling and Waterproofing Limited
The latest structure to enter Auckland’s accommodation scene is the fabulously upmarket hotel called ‘SO/Auckland‘. Located in the heart of downtown Auckland, the SO/Auckland brings to light a bold and contemporary art-based style, influenced by the unique ethos of the famous WORLD brand designer, Benny Castles. This chic hotel has it all. Sophisticated roof-top bar, relaxing spa complex, stunning indoor pool and a masterful restaurant overseen by Michelin-starred chef Marc De Passorio.
ARDEX was the supplier of choice for:
Similar to all large projects, it is vastly difficult to ensure all plans are executed without error. This particular accommodation complex was no different, and many of the hotel floors were bowed in a convex curve. ARDEX was able to resolve the builder’s situation by offering our engineered ARDEX A 38 screed to remedy the variance between the middle of the slab to the edges. ARDEX A 38 was selected for its rapid setting and high-performance abilities and demonstrated its hero qualities when repairing over 50mm in variance!
It’s no doubt that SO/Auckland has upmarket style, however due to the intricate eye-catching designs it can be a nightmare for applicators to perform the correct product detailing. Working closely with installers from Advanced Tiling and Waterproofing, ARDEX was able to generate customised detailing plans for the application of ARDEX WPM 002 and the installation of complex bathroom taps. These customised detail plans were fully compatible with our system ARDEX warranties – minimising risk for all parties and assisted in the building process.
With over 10 ARDEX products being thoroughly used throughout the 15-storey masterpiece, the SO/Auckland is a fantastic example of the exquisite premium quality that only ARDEX can supply. If you haven’t already, book a night’s stay and experience for yourself what makes the SO/Auckland – SO good.
Wynyard Central Pavilions
Architect: Architectus
Builder: L T McGuinness Limited
Developer: Willis Bond & Co.
Located in the heart of Auckland’s CBD, the Wynyard Quarter is a vibrant, high-quality and environmentally sustainable district. Situated right on Auckland’s waterfront it is the perfect spot to accommodate the lively city atmosphere whilst also showcasing New Zealand’s beautiful, calming seas. The most recent addition to the Quarter, completed in 2018 are 113 stunningly designed residences in three different styles – pavilions, townhouses and apartments.
ARDEX was the system of choice for the wet area waterproofing, tiling and soundproofing systems for both the luxury penthouse suites and 10 stories worth of stylish apartments. ARDEX WPM 002 was the under-tile wet area waterproofing system; selected for its toughness in commercial work and its rapid drying time the installers confident they would have a strong and dry surface to begin tiling 16 hours after application.
Working closely with builders L T McGuinness, ARDEX was able to supply a full soundproofing system for impact insulation to meet IIC requirements all the way from sub-floor preparation, soundproof matting, tiling systems through to the finished grout and silicones. Having one supplier of the whole system ensures that L T McGuiness and Architectus only have one point of contact to work with and are ensured with one tested and warranted system.
The Wynyard Central apartments are now fully open and welcome to residents. With such a stylish and environmental abode in the heart of the city; it is no wonder it was awarded the “best multi-unit residential development” at the Home Awards this year.
For more information on the product systems used in this successful development see below, otherwise get in contact with a local representative.
Te Puia Wharekai
Installer: Holmac Limited
Architect: Allistar Cox
The latest tourist attraction in Rotorua is none other than Te Puia; a cultural centre educating visitors on New Zealand’s geothermal wonders and unique Māori culture. The vision for this cultural hub proved to be difficult requiring a slopping, multiple story building constructed over unstable, geothermal ground. Working closely with architects from Allistar Cox and installers from Holmac; ARDEX New Zealand managed to resolve all external waterproofing needs for the 1,200m2 roof, combined with a 1,800m2 tanking system.
Due to a wet concrete substrate as a result from poor weather conditions a special two-layer torch-applied system using ARDEX WPM 114 vented base sheet and ARDEX WPM 189 capping sheet was selected to roof the cultural centre. ARDEX WPM 114 has special venting properties that allow moisture to vent through channels in the membrane. The moisture will eventually make its way to an opening, such as a parapet or an ARDEX roof vent, without the need for holes in the venting layer; making ARDEX WPM 114 a fantastic choice for coverage over substrates that may have moisture issues.
Being an area with a lot of geothermal activity, not only did the below-grade membrane need to waterproof the construction, but also ensure no harmful gasses were able to make their way into the building. With the two major gases in the Rotorua region being hydrogen sulphide and methane the membrane and the laps between sheets were tested to show no deterioration and to be completely impervious to those and other key gases. To ensure full security for the laps, and to reduce installation time on-site, the ARDEX Butynol sheets were measured to specification and fully vulcanised in ARDEX’s Christchurch factory after manufacture.
Overall the waterproofing solution provided was incredibly effective and provided efficiencies that only local manufacturing can. Completed in June 2018 thanks to Holmac and Allistar Cox; the Te Puia cultural centre is ready to let visitors in and keep the water out.
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 sizeable 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.