PRICE ` 10/- VOL. 19 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2010 - DR. FIXIT
PRICE ` 10/- VOL. 19 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2010 - DR. FIXIT
PRICE ` 10/- VOL. 19 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2010 - DR. FIXIT
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<strong>VOL</strong>. <strong>19</strong> <strong>JULY</strong> - <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> 20<strong>10</strong><br />
<strong>PRICE</strong> ` <strong>10</strong>/-<br />
Building Blocks - vol. <strong>19</strong><br />
1
Building Blocks - vol. <strong>19</strong><br />
IF ONLY, I had used<br />
Dr. Fixit<br />
2<br />
Waterproofing Solutions!<br />
Dr. Fixit, Waterproofing Solutions
From the President's desk<br />
Dear Readers,<br />
Greetings!<br />
We are back and this time we are here to stay. With great pleasure and pride, I assure that we will bring to you this<br />
magazine on a regular basis now.<br />
We try and cover topics that will be of interest to you. In past we received lots of contributory article from our ardent<br />
readers. Your articles help us in capturing all the areas that are significant to construction chemicals. We hope that<br />
going forward we will witness the same enthusiasm and encouragement.<br />
Our efforts will not be complete without your feedback. Your feedback is valuable to us as we are constantly trying<br />
to make Building Blocks more useful. We welcome any and all feedback and suggestions from you. Please take a few<br />
moments to fill in the feedback forms attached with the magazine.<br />
I trust that you will enjoy this magazine. Building Blocks will be published quarterly. So keep an eye out for the next<br />
edition in December, 20<strong>10</strong>.<br />
Best wishes,<br />
Sushil Luniya<br />
President<br />
Construction Chemicals Division,<br />
Pidilite Industries Ltd.<br />
Editor's note<br />
Dear Friend,<br />
The last issue of Building Blocks featured a major article on Anti–Microbial Protective Coatings for Hygiene Wall<br />
Surfaces.<br />
We have witnessed a good monsoon this year. So if your customer's house has faced the brunt of the monsoon,<br />
this issue will come to your rescue. In this issue, we bring to you the Best of the Best articles published in Building<br />
Blocks so far.<br />
This issue concentrates more on waterproofing; starting from ABC of waterproofing, rising dampness to leakfree<br />
bathroom.<br />
Pidilite is also proud to announce the launch of interactive guide to Healthy construction and Healthy Construction<br />
Lecture Series, which is organized through Dr. Fixit Institute.<br />
Also attached along with this magazine is a feedback form. It will be helpful if you could kindly fill & send it back with<br />
your valuable inputs.<br />
Bharat Gothoskar<br />
Head - Marketing<br />
Construction Chemicals Division,<br />
Pidilite Industries Ltd.
PUBLISHED BY<br />
Pidilite industries Ltd.<br />
Regent Chambers, 7th Floor, 208,<br />
Nariman Point, Mumbai 400 021.<br />
EDITOR<br />
Bharat Gothoskar<br />
ASST. EDITOR<br />
Swapnil Deshmukh<br />
DESIGNED BY<br />
Parag Chinchkar<br />
OFFICES<br />
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COPYRIGHT<br />
Pidilite Industries Ltd.<br />
Mumbai 400 021.<br />
Building Blocks - vol. <strong>19</strong><br />
DISCLAIMER<br />
All rights are reserved. While all efforts are made to ensure<br />
that the information published is correct. Pidilite Industries<br />
Ltd. holds no responsibility for any unlikely errors that<br />
might occur. The information on products and projects on<br />
offer is being provided for the reference of readers. Pidilite<br />
Industries Ltd. holds no responsibility for any decision<br />
taken by readers on the basis of information provided<br />
herein.<br />
Contents<br />
No. Topics Page No.<br />
A FROM THE COVER<br />
01 ABC of Waterproofing<br />
This year heavy monsoon has left its impression on your home?<br />
Need to undo the damage done? Read and understand the why and<br />
how of waterproofing.<br />
02 An Approach to Terrace Waterproofing<br />
Waterproofing has not been given enough attention in India. Terrace<br />
waterproofing forms an integral part of construction. Dampness or<br />
moisture through terrace can be damaging for any construction.<br />
Here is terrace waterproofing made easy for you.<br />
03 Rising Dampness<br />
It might not sound interesting, but it is the most common problem<br />
in the country. It affects most of the houses in some way or the<br />
other. Find out how to check it.<br />
04 Advanced Roof Waterproofing Technology<br />
Using a UV-resistant and heat reflecting acrylic co-polymer<br />
waterproofing coating.<br />
Advanced technology has enabled builders and architects to<br />
achieve perfection in appearance of buildings. Over the years,<br />
technology in waterproofing has also evolved making it easier to<br />
waterproof your house.<br />
05 Leak Free Bathrooms<br />
The bathrooms are the home’s most utilized room; however, it<br />
generally escapes the owner’s attention. If not attended properly<br />
and in a timely fashion, it can lead to major problems.<br />
C Q & A<br />
06 Ask The Expert 16<br />
D NEW INITIATIVES<br />
07 • Launch of HCLS Interactive Guide<br />
• No Breaking News Campaign<br />
• Free Health Check up<br />
• Roff launch<br />
• Smartcare Hospitality<br />
• Industrial Floorings<br />
E NEW PRODUCTS<br />
08 • Dr. Fixit Powercrete<br />
• ROFF Undertile<br />
F NEWS<br />
09 • Some of Our Recent Projects<br />
• Exhibitions<br />
<strong>10</strong> • Training Programs Organised<br />
• Meets<br />
05<br />
08<br />
09<br />
<strong>10</strong><br />
14<br />
17<br />
21<br />
22<br />
23
ABC of Waterproofing<br />
This years heavy monsoon has left its impression on your home? So now if you feel it is about time that you undertake<br />
repair work and waterproof your home, load yourself with all the information on waterproofing.<br />
Read on to understand the why and how of waterproofing.<br />
Waterproofing in India, still looks like a foreign concept.<br />
According to the definition, it is the combination of<br />
materials or system designed to prevent water from<br />
entering or escaping from various sections of the<br />
building. We say escaping because in case of water tanks<br />
water should not be allowed to escape through leaks.<br />
Water that enters or escapes from the buildings can<br />
cause serious damage to the building content and may<br />
lead to structural damage. Damage due to fire is another<br />
cause of building decay and deterioration.<br />
In case of seepage, the owner’s concerns are limited<br />
to the visible impact, like peeling of costly paint from<br />
the walls, damage caused to the furniture, carpet, etc.<br />
But what escapes his notice is the damage caused to<br />
the structure, by way of rusting the embedded steel.<br />
When steel comes in contact with water, rusting starts.<br />
The volume of rust is eight to nine times more than the<br />
original volume of steel, thus exerts more pressure on<br />
the surrounding concrete. The concrete starts to crack<br />
and ultimately falls off.<br />
Steel is then directly exposed to atmosphere, which<br />
further accelerates the corrosion and may lead to the<br />
collapse of the whole structure.<br />
Water, though very integral for preparing concrete while<br />
construction becomes dangerous once the structure<br />
is ready. We should try to keep out the water. The<br />
moment it falls on concrete, it should find a way out of<br />
the building. Slope and drainage should be provided to<br />
ensure water is drained.<br />
Today the focus is not on how strong the buildings are,<br />
but on how durable the structures should be. Whatever<br />
may be the strength, the important consideration is how<br />
long will it survive. Even the latest revision of the IS:456-<br />
2000, focuses on durability. The buildings are designed<br />
for a life span of 80 years. With proper maintenance<br />
the building<br />
should last for<br />
its designed life<br />
span.<br />
Durability specifications must be incorporated in all three<br />
stages:<br />
} } Design Stage<br />
} } Construction Stage<br />
} } Maintenance Stage<br />
But these days,<br />
the buildings<br />
undergo major<br />
repairs within<br />
the first 15 to 20<br />
years.<br />
Unwarranted plant growth on roofs Sealing of gaps using Sealant<br />
For example, in giving the number of outlets for drainage<br />
of terrace water, one should consider ample slope and<br />
suitable size of outlet pipe. Invariably the number of<br />
outlets are less and also the size is small in diameter. The<br />
location of outlet is also important as it affects the flow<br />
of water.<br />
During maintenance we can exercise some basic checks.<br />
We can ensure that the water outlet on terrace is not<br />
blocked. It may get blocked due to shrub growth or<br />
vegetation. In some cases, the water outlet is used for<br />
some other purpose like taking the pipe line, cable<br />
lines etc.<br />
We should always keep the terrace clean by asking<br />
the building housekeeper to clean it once in fortnight,<br />
clearing the blockages of the outlets.<br />
If the slope is not properly provided in the terrace,<br />
water logging takes place and ultimately seeps in to the<br />
building. The same needs to be corrected. Any cracks<br />
in the terrace and on top of parapet etc. need to be<br />
immediately rectified.<br />
In the interior of the apartment, there are chances of<br />
water seeping in through the window joints, cracks from<br />
beam and masonry joints, toilet floors, pipe joints etc.<br />
One needs to attend to these immediately, before it<br />
damages the building’s interiors. The seepage can also<br />
damage some portions of RCC.<br />
Today many ready-to-use joint fillers are available which<br />
can be used to seal the gaps. In case of window joints,<br />
ready to use<br />
acrylic sealants<br />
are available<br />
which the house<br />
owner himself<br />
can use to plug<br />
the joints. In<br />
bathroom, the<br />
bathtub and<br />
washbasin joints<br />
can be easily<br />
Building Blocks - vol. <strong>19</strong><br />
5<br />
ABC of Waterproofing
Building Blocks - vol. <strong>19</strong><br />
6<br />
ABC of Waterproofing<br />
sealed using the<br />
sealants.<br />
In case of<br />
leakages from<br />
bathrooms and<br />
toilets, one needs<br />
to use proper<br />
piping and the<br />
joints must<br />
Tiling with normal cement is shabby be filled with<br />
sealants. Today,<br />
most of the piping is concealed. So, care must be taken<br />
in sealing these joints properly. Once embedded, we will<br />
not know from where the water is leaking. Repairing this<br />
will be far more expensive. Generally, it is observed that<br />
customers buy expensive fittings but do not invest in<br />
jointing material and quality of labour involved.<br />
In new bathrooms or while carrying out renovation we<br />
must properly waterproof the sunken areas along with<br />
its sides to avoid leakages. Tile adhesives must be used<br />
for tiling and filling the joints as white cement used has a<br />
property of shrinkage and it will leave the joints to seep.<br />
In tiling joints, tile grout needs to be used. It is a special<br />
powder with powder polymers, fillers etc., that ensures<br />
leak free joints.<br />
The cost of tile grout, as compared to white cement, is<br />
more than two times, but the requirement is very less.<br />
For waterproofing the bathrooms many systems are<br />
available:<br />
} } Cementitious acrylic coatings<br />
} } Bituminous coatings<br />
} } Crystalline method<br />
In apartments, leakage from upper floor bathrooms<br />
is very common. It gets difficult, if the upper floor<br />
occupant is non-cooperative. For such cases, chemicals<br />
are available to arrest leakage from the bottom. It will<br />
be a combination of cementitious and resin based<br />
chemicals. But first find out the source of the leakage.<br />
For waterproofing of terraces one of the following<br />
systems can be adopted:<br />
} } Acrylic coatings<br />
} } Cementitious acrylic coatings under brickbat coba<br />
} } Preformed Bituminous membranes with overlay<br />
} } EPDM (Membranes) etc.<br />
It is very important to choose the right kind of system<br />
before proceeding with waterproofing. Thorough surface<br />
preparation needs to be done before taking up the<br />
application.<br />
Walls are<br />
neglected as far<br />
as protection is<br />
concerned.<br />
The objective<br />
of painting the<br />
external walls<br />
in most cases is<br />
to decorate the<br />
Use of a waterproof Tile Adhesive walls. But the fact<br />
is that we need to protect them with proper coatings.<br />
Today, many aesthetic coatings are designed to offer<br />
elastomeric properties and waterproofing. There are
good coatings available that are long lasting and have<br />
the capability to bridge upto 0.5 mm cracks.<br />
For any waterproofing solution, diagnosis is very<br />
important. First we need to identify the source of<br />
leakage. For proper diagnosis one needs to thoroughly<br />
inspect the site, get relevant data from persons staying<br />
there and then arrive at source of leekage.<br />
This can be done by an experienced contractor<br />
(applicator). Once proper diagnosis is done, the remedy<br />
is easy. The applicator also needs to be experienced &<br />
trained.<br />
Lastly, a holistic approach needs to be given to the<br />
building. All the areas like terrace, wet areas like<br />
Torch-On Membrane being applied with<br />
a trained applicator<br />
bathroom and<br />
toilets, kitchens,<br />
walls, joints<br />
etc. need to<br />
be taken into<br />
consideration.<br />
Leakage<br />
also leads to<br />
unhygienic<br />
conditions. It is<br />
better to spend<br />
initially while<br />
construction rather than spending huge amount later<br />
for repair.<br />
Building Blocks - vol. <strong>19</strong><br />
7
Building Blocks - vol. <strong>19</strong><br />
8<br />
An approach to Terrace Waterproofing<br />
An Approach to Terrace Waterproofing<br />
Jay Paul, Waterproofing expert, Dubai<br />
Imagine a new house, grand in appearance with impressive design, excellent use of available space and a damp patch in<br />
the corner of the ceiling stealing the whole beauty. Waterproofing has not been given enough attention in India. Terrace<br />
waterproofing forms an integral part of construction. Dampness or moisture through terrace can be damaging for any<br />
construction.<br />
For contractors undertaking terrace waterproofing in<br />
new construction here are some tips:<br />
} } Visually inspect the slab for cracks closely from top<br />
and bottom throughout the terrace.<br />
} } Conduct the ‘Hammer test’ around the areas,<br />
severely cracked. If there is a hollow sound, the<br />
cracks shall be brush applied cement slurry added<br />
with Dr. Fixit Pidicrete AM, ensuring that they are all<br />
filled completely.<br />
} } Wider cracks must be cleaned with a wire brush, and<br />
cut to a U shape of 5 mm X 8 mm and filled with a<br />
Mastic Filler, using Dr. Fixit Roofseal, which will be<br />
flexible enough to accommodate movements.<br />
} } Make triangle fillet of 50 mm x 50 mm on all vertical<br />
abutments.<br />
} } Pre-treat critical areas such as VERTICAL JOINTS,<br />
OUTLET AREAS AND PIPE PROTRUSIONS, etc. with<br />
Dr. Fixit Pidifin 2K flexible cementitious waterproofing.<br />
} } The waterproofing treatment can be done using the<br />
product selector from the Dr. Fixit Waterproofing<br />
range.<br />
} } Post application check must be done during / after<br />
the monsoon. If leakage is observed, look for the<br />
cracks in the membrane. If there are cracks, they<br />
should be cleaned and overcoated with two coats<br />
of the waterproofing membrane sandwiched with<br />
a Polypropylene Fibre net (The PP Net should have<br />
been soaked in Dr. Fixit Pidicrete URP liquid and dried,<br />
prior to placing it for application.) The width of this<br />
net must be at least 4 inches on either side of the<br />
crack.<br />
Approach to Terrace Waterproofing & old Construction<br />
will be slightly different.<br />
1. If old waterproofing is removed<br />
There are to two ways of carrying these out terrrace<br />
waterproofing for old construction - removing the old<br />
waterproofing and retaining the old waterproofing.<br />
} } Check the substrate and its bond with the roof deck<br />
and then decide whether the removal of the existing<br />
substrate is necessary or not. [Consult Dr. Fixit if<br />
required]<br />
} } Ensure that the entrapped moisture in the slab is<br />
within the limit of 15<br />
} } Conduct the 'Hammer test' around the areas,<br />
severely cracked<br />
} } If there is a hollow sound, the cracks shall be injection<br />
grouted with cement slurry added with Dr. Fixit<br />
Pidicrete AM.<br />
} } In case loose / spalled concrete is observed, it may be<br />
removed to see if there is any corrosion in the rebars.<br />
In case of excessive corrosion, the rebars should be<br />
checked for its condition; if its diameter is less than<br />
the <strong>10</strong> , advise the customer to consult a structural<br />
engineer. If the total area of spalled concrete is less<br />
than 20 of the total area of the terrace slab, the<br />
loose concrete must be removed, rebars must be<br />
rust cleaned and filled in with Dr. Fixit Microconcrete,<br />
after applying a bonding agent and cure properly in<br />
accordance with good curing practices.<br />
} } Other crevices, potholes in the slab, shall be filled<br />
up with a polymer-modified mortar using Dr. Fixit<br />
Pidicrete URP. Such areas need not be cured with<br />
water.<br />
} } The entire area of the slab shall be injected with<br />
cement slurry added with Dr. Fixit Pidicrete AM at a<br />
distance of three feet along the breadth and span of<br />
the slab.<br />
} } The waterproofing of the terrace then can be done,<br />
using the product selector of Dr. Fixit waterproofing<br />
systems.<br />
2. If old waterproofing is not removed<br />
} } Check for slope of at least 1:<strong>10</strong>0.<br />
} } Clean the surface.<br />
} } Remove 150 mm of vertical plaster on all parapet<br />
walls - terrace junctions, to terminate the membrane.<br />
} } Apply a 3 mm Dr. Fixit Torchshield waterproofing<br />
membrane<br />
} } Cover with 25 mm screed with a chicken mesh<br />
in a panel of not more than 4 m x 4m. Apply a<br />
polysulphide sealant or a roof mastic in the control<br />
joints of the screed.
Rising Dampness<br />
Rajesh Singh, Proprietor of a Dr. Fixit Centre, Varanasi<br />
Rising Dampness might not sound like an interesting topic, however, it is the most common and acute problem in the<br />
country. It affects all the houses in some ways or the others.<br />
A ground floor phenomenon, it is basically caused when<br />
ground water / other water seeps through the masonry,<br />
resulting in wet patches that leads to aesthetics and<br />
hygiene problems. It is very common in old buildings and<br />
at times in new buildings as well. It happens when proper<br />
damp proof course is not laid or the damp proof course<br />
fails.<br />
All these years, there was no full proof ready solution,<br />
which could arrest the dampness. Traditionally, many<br />
kinds of treatments, namely integral compounds,<br />
membranes, repellents, coatings, etc. have been used,<br />
which are not only expensive, but also fail to arrest the<br />
problem of rising dampness. The dampness tends to<br />
persist behind the coating and spreads to other areas<br />
where coating is missing. The coating may even fail due<br />
to high pore pressure.<br />
Any external<br />
waterproofing<br />
coating may not<br />
be useful as it<br />
does not prevent<br />
the seepage of<br />
water / moisture<br />
from the ground<br />
as the path<br />
through masonry<br />
is always available. With technological advancement.<br />
it is now possible to eliminate the path and prevent<br />
any water seeping from the masonry itself. Siliconate<br />
Technology can do this, as siliconate is an excellent water<br />
repellant. It is a very fine material, which when grouted<br />
in the masonry, repels water and prevents the leakage<br />
from its source.<br />
The right solution is to inject an aqueous solution of a<br />
siliconate-based material. It is a low viscous solution,<br />
which penetrates easily. Once it impregnates in to<br />
the brickwork, a durable gelatin product blocks the<br />
capillaries. This arrests the rising dampness.<br />
A siliconate material has a lot of advantages. It is easy<br />
to apply, economical and has a much higher degree of<br />
success in treating rising dampness. It is technologically<br />
superior and is an effective solution for both ordinary<br />
and rising dampness. It increases the life expectancy<br />
of masonry. It protects moss and fungal growth and is<br />
less sensitive to frost-thaw cycles. It is water dilutable.<br />
Siliconate stops the rise of moisture due to capillary rise.<br />
However, it does not dry out the wall. It is imperative<br />
for the wall to dry before any decoration or painting is<br />
done. All salt affected render and plaster will need to be<br />
replaced.<br />
The process involves the saturation of brickwork, treating<br />
the surface and re-plastering.<br />
Siliconate is ideal for:<br />
} } Basement masonry walls<br />
} } Masonry walls (above or at DPC)<br />
} } For internal walls in porous construction<br />
The correct process of application involves:<br />
} } Identifying and marking the area of grouting.<br />
} } Spacing of holes for drilling (will depend upon the<br />
absorption capacity of building, severity of problem.<br />
The lower is the severity more will be spacing)<br />
} } Using 12 to 15 mm diameter drill bit, drilling holes at an<br />
inclination of 45 degrees, up to 3/4 th of wall thickness<br />
} } The holes can be drilled from inside or outside of wall<br />
or on both sides depending on availability of space<br />
} } Siliconate creates a damproofing course. It should be<br />
injected in the lowest possible point<br />
} } The placing of holes may be done at 300 mm center<br />
to center. If necessary, 2nd row of holes can be drilled in<br />
staggered condition.<br />
} } Vertical distance may be placed 150 mm to 200 mm.<br />
} } Fix <strong>10</strong>-12 mm diameter nozzle or as specified. Place the<br />
nozzles inside the drilled holes with suitable material<br />
and allow it to set at least for a day before grouting.<br />
} } Depending upon the severity of the dampness and<br />
the materials used in the wall during construction, the<br />
Siliconate is diluted by 1 part with 5 parts of potable<br />
water.<br />
} } A hand pump which can create pressure of two bar is<br />
required. Use a pressure-gauging dial. Inject the diluted<br />
liquid by pumping till no more material goes in to the<br />
hole.<br />
} } Allow it to remain for sometime before moving to the<br />
next nozzle.<br />
} } Remove the protruding nozzles and seal the holes<br />
with an appropriate compound (may be with polymer<br />
modified mortar)<br />
} } The treated areas are to be washed thoroughly.<br />
Building Blocks - vol. <strong>19</strong><br />
9<br />
Rising Dampness
Building Blocks - vol. <strong>19</strong><br />
<strong>10</strong><br />
Advanced roof waterproofing technology<br />
Advanced Roof Waterproofing Technology<br />
Using a UV-Resistant & Heat Reflecting Acrylic Co-Polymer Waterproofing Coating<br />
Dr. Dien Pandiman, Technical Director, CHEMSON ASIA PTE. LTD, SINGAPORE<br />
Architects and builders have started incorporating scientific methods to ensure perfection in the appearance of the<br />
building. Slowly and gradually, technology has also evolved in waterproofing.<br />
Waterproofing technology evolved steadily from “old”<br />
hot/cold liquid applied bitumen to “new” water-borne<br />
acrylic co-polymer waterproofing membrane. There are<br />
many types of waterproofing materials to choose for<br />
different applications. Material selection is one of the<br />
keys for a successful building envelope, i.e. waterproofing<br />
system. The wrong choice of a waterproofing material<br />
can be disastrous for a building.<br />
Due to environmental and toxicology concerns and<br />
regulations, water-borne liquid applied acrylic copolymer<br />
has taken over the solvent-borne system.<br />
It has become a popular choice of waterproofing<br />
material in recent years. To understand advanced roof<br />
waterproofing technology. We first need to know what<br />
acrylic co-polymer.<br />
Acrylic co-polymer is a synthetic organic resin used as a<br />
binder to “glue” pigments, extenders and special fillers<br />
together. It is polymerised from an acrylic monomer<br />
with other monomer(s) forming long-chain backbones<br />
of polymers with high molecular weights. The acrylic<br />
co-polymer resin used in waterproofing coating has<br />
good UV weathering resistance, is flexible, breathable,<br />
and watertight. The resin with other ingredients must<br />
be allowed to build-up sufficient dry film thickness (DFT)<br />
to produce a film or membrane that creates waterproof<br />
and elastomeric waterproofing coating.<br />
The trend of moving towards green buildings made<br />
it important to come up with a eco-friendly product<br />
for waterproof coating. Dr. Fixit Newcoat is a unique<br />
water-borne elastomeric acrylic co-polymer coating,<br />
specifically formulated for roof waterproofing. It is in a<br />
liquid stage during application, and forms an impervious<br />
or waterproof membrane when water evaporates during<br />
the curing or drying process. Since water is used as a<br />
liquid carrier in the manufacturing that causes no harm<br />
to the environment and people, so it can be termed as a<br />
“Green and Eco-Friendly” waterproofing product. It has<br />
no harmful and distinct smell of organic solvent. Dr. Fixit<br />
Newcoat is highly durable waterproofing coating having<br />
excellent resistance to UV, algae, mildew, alkaline and<br />
efflorescence properties. It is breathable, so it allows<br />
trapped water vapours to escape from the roof. Besides<br />
these properties, Dr. Fixit Newcoat can also reduce heat<br />
built-up on roof by reflecting some harmful ultra violet<br />
(UV), visible, and infrared radiations. Since there is only<br />
small portion of heat absorbed on the roof as compared<br />
to the “black” bitumen waterproofing membrane, hence<br />
the roof is cooler and the heat transferred into the<br />
building is less.<br />
Before selecting roof waterproofing coating we must<br />
make sure that it possess the following properties:<br />
} } Weathering and UV Resistance<br />
} } High Tensile Strength and Elongation<br />
} } Crack Bridging Capabilities<br />
} } Chemical and Alkali Resistance<br />
} } Good Bonding Strength<br />
} } Low Water Absorption, withstanding hydrostatic<br />
pressure<br />
} } Breathable, permeable to vapour transmission<br />
} } Good Colour Retention<br />
} } Algae and Fungus Resistance<br />
Dr. Fixit Newcoat fulfils and/or exceeds all requirements<br />
for “Elastomeric Roof Coating” used in most of public<br />
and private apartments in Singapore, especially by<br />
Singapore Housing & Development Board (HDB)<br />
Apartments. It is a proven roof waterproofing coating,<br />
and is fully tested by an independent testing laboratory<br />
accredited by Singapore Accreditation Council-Singapore<br />
Laboratory Scheme (SAC-SINGLAS), and its performance<br />
properties are shown in Table 1.<br />
Analysis of Data<br />
Solid and polymer content (TGA/DTA Analyser):<br />
Solid and polymer content (TGA/DTA Analyser): Dr.<br />
Fixit Newcoat is a high build elastomeric liquid applied<br />
waterproofing membrane, and it requires high solid<br />
content to build up its effective thickness of minimum<br />
1 mm DFT. Since the dry membrane has about 35 of<br />
elastomeric polymer binder within the membrane, so its<br />
flexibility and durability will be maintained throughout its<br />
service life span.
Table 1:<br />
Performance Properties of Dr. Fixit Newcoat<br />
Properties Test Method Results<br />
Solid Content TGA/DTA<br />
Analyser<br />
69 <br />
Polymer Content 35 <br />
Hardness T A) ASTM D 412 :<br />
2002<br />
Tensile Strength ASTM D 412 :<br />
2002<br />
Elongation at Break ASTM G 154 :<br />
2000<br />
UV Resistant<br />
- Accelerated<br />
Weathering (2000<br />
hours)<br />
ASTM D 4541 :<br />
2002<br />
Adhesion Strength ASTM E 96 :<br />
2000<br />
Water Vapour<br />
Transmission<br />
Algae & Fungus<br />
Resistant<br />
2.6 N/mm 2<br />
<strong>10</strong>0 <br />
EXCELLENT<br />
No Thermal<br />
Degradation, Cracking,<br />
Chalking and<br />
Discolouration<br />
0.9 N/mm 2<br />
SS 345 : <strong>19</strong>98 <strong>19</strong> g/m 2 /day<br />
ASTM C 836 :<br />
<strong>19</strong>95 (Adopted)<br />
No Algae & Fungus<br />
Growth<br />
Crack Bridging a. No Cracks up to 2 mm<br />
width<br />
b. No Cracks up to 1 mm<br />
(<strong>10</strong> cycles)<br />
Hardness (ASTM D 2240:2002)<br />
Surface hardness of a waterproof membrane is required<br />
for trafficable purposes and to resist forces that can<br />
cause damage to the membrane. Dr. Fixit Newcoat with<br />
the hardness of 80 (Shore A) is suitable for pedestrian<br />
traffic over it. Its hardness will not drop drastically<br />
due to its polymer binder nature, as compared with<br />
the “bitumen” nature that becomes very “soft” upon<br />
subjected to intense heat on the roof.<br />
Tensile strength & elongation (ASTM D 412)<br />
The secret behind its highly durable and tough roof<br />
membrane is the incorporation of premium blend<br />
acrylic polymer resins with quality titanium dioxide,<br />
additives and “special” micro-fiber filler. The latter will<br />
interlock each other during the curing stage forming an<br />
integrated web-like reinforcement with the membrane.<br />
This unique micro-fiber reinforcement increases the<br />
tensile strength of the membrane significantly while<br />
allowing some elongation to accommodate hairline<br />
cracks and thermal movements.<br />
Accelerated weathering (ASTM G 154)<br />
The acrylic co-polymer resins used in Dr. Fixit Newcoat<br />
are excellent resistant to weathering and harmful<br />
sunlight rays, particularly in tropical countries like India,<br />
Middle East, Indonesia, Singapore, and others where<br />
the intensity of these harmful radiations are very high.<br />
The good quality of the resin had been proven by the<br />
simulation “accelerated” weathering test for 2000 hours,<br />
and no polymer degradation, cracking, chalking and<br />
drastic discolouration were observed.<br />
There is no “direct” correlation data available<br />
between the “accelerated” and “natural” weathering,<br />
particularly in Asia. However, an estimated figure is<br />
that the accelerated weathering test result obtained<br />
from the laboratory times a factor of 15-20 for the<br />
natural weathering exposed to Dr. Fixit Newcoat during<br />
its service life. In other words, Dr. Fixit Newcoat will<br />
show no signs of degradation, cracking, chalking and<br />
drastic colour fading for at least 5 years at its service<br />
environment.<br />
Crack bridging capability (ASTM C 836)<br />
With a high solid content, Dr. Fixit Newcoat forms a hibuild<br />
coating membrane with minimum 1 mm DFT for<br />
three coats application. With a combination of sufficient<br />
DFT, tensile strength and elongation, the coating<br />
membrane is able to bridge any cracks up to 1.5 mm<br />
width which can be caused due to shrinkage during the<br />
curing or cement hydration process. The hi-build coating<br />
membrane can withstand water from seeping through<br />
the cracks.<br />
Note: Any cracks more than 1.5 mm width must be<br />
repaired with sealants and patching compounds.<br />
Cracks due to thermal expansions and contractions<br />
and structural movements will significantly reduce<br />
the capability of the membrane to bridge them. The<br />
simulation test of this capability was performed on<br />
Dr. Fixit Newcoat where the dry membrane was pulled<br />
up to 1 mm width and then returned to its original shape<br />
repeatedly. After the cyclical simulation test, no cracks<br />
were observed on the coating membrane.<br />
Building Blocks - vol. <strong>19</strong><br />
11<br />
Advanced roof waterproofing technology
Building Blocks - vol. <strong>19</strong><br />
12<br />
Advanced roof waterproofing technology<br />
Bonding strength (ASTM D 4541) & breathability<br />
(ASTM E 96)<br />
A coating film with non-breathable and poor bonding<br />
strength to substrate properties will cause blisters in the<br />
coating, and hence peeling and/or de-bonding from the<br />
substrate.<br />
Dr. Fixit Newcoat bonds extremely well with the concrete<br />
substrate with the bonding strength of 0.9 N/mm<br />
(126 psi), and is breathable. So it allows moisture-vapour<br />
transmission from the substrate to escape through<br />
the coating film without causing blistering, peeling or<br />
de-bonding.<br />
Algae & fungus resistance (SS 345)<br />
Roof waterproofing coating is exposed to sunlight and<br />
rain constantly and also collects dirt form the polluted<br />
air. These elements are preferable condition by algae<br />
and fungus to grow organically on the surface of the<br />
coating. Biocide used in roof waterproofing coating must<br />
be able to address this microbiological growth problem.<br />
Since roof coating membrane is constantly in contact<br />
with water, and sometimes water-ponding for several<br />
hours and days, so any watersoluble biocides in the<br />
coating will be leached out and washed away. Therefore,<br />
the coating will loose its efficiency to fight against algae<br />
& fungus growth.<br />
Dr. Fixit Newcoat incorporates “Slow-Leaching Rate”<br />
Biocide specifically designed for tropical countries with<br />
high UV rays, humidity and rain throughout the years.<br />
This biocide will stay much longer on the surface of the<br />
membrane to deter the growth of algae and fungus.<br />
With its slow leaching rate, the biocide on the surface<br />
will slowly leach out and wash out by rainwater, and at<br />
the same time the biocide within the membrane will<br />
migrate onto the surface as a self-renewal for long-term<br />
protection against algae & fungus growth<br />
Application<br />
Dr. Fixit Newcoat is a water-borne elastomeric acrylic<br />
co-polymer and single pack roofing compounds. It is<br />
easy to apply by roller with no chemical hazard exposed<br />
to the applicator. It is non-flammable and safe to use<br />
at any conditions. For roof waterproofing system, it is<br />
recommended to apply one coat of primer and threecoats<br />
of Dr. Fixit Newcoat for a total of minimum<br />
1 mm dry film thickness, as illustrated in Figure 1 below.<br />
Waterproofing Membrane Application<br />
(1 Coat of Dr. Fixit Newcoat).<br />
Priming Coat<br />
Concrete Suface<br />
Figure 1: Typical Application of Dr. Fixit Newcoat<br />
Waterproofing<br />
Membrane<br />
Application<br />
(2 Coats of<br />
Dr. Fixit Newcoat).<br />
Successful application of elastomeric waterproofing<br />
membranes depends entirely on proper substrate<br />
preparation. Substrate must be sloped to drain water<br />
toward scuppers or deck drain. Although Dr. Fixit<br />
Newcoat is effective and excellent waterproof material,<br />
it should not be applied on cracks, voids, or damaged<br />
materials, as this will affect the functionality of the<br />
membrane.<br />
All cracks more<br />
than 1.5 mm<br />
wide must be<br />
repaired with<br />
“compatible”<br />
sealants or<br />
patching<br />
compounds.<br />
All dirt, grease,<br />
oils, asphalt<br />
materials,<br />
mildew and other contaminants by cleaned and removed<br />
completely by means of pressure cleaning equipment<br />
with a minimum capability of <strong>10</strong> N/mm (about 1500 psi)<br />
water pressure prior to application. Roller application<br />
is preferred and recommended, as it fills voids and<br />
crevices in a substrate. Brushing is used to detail around<br />
protrusions, corners and/or up-turns.<br />
Good supervision and close monitoring is advisable<br />
to ensure proper and correct application. To make<br />
supervision and monitoring jobs easier at site, Dr. Fixit<br />
Newcoat is specifically manufactured in different colours<br />
for each coat, as shown in the site application pictures.
Application of Primer Coat<br />
Application of 2 nd Coat (Pink)<br />
Application of 1 st Coat (Green) Application of Final Coat (Grey)<br />
The application rate of priming coat is about 8 to <strong>10</strong> m<br />
per litre. Allow it to dry for at least two hours. After the<br />
primer coat, Dr. Fixit Newcoat is applied onto it by roller<br />
with the spreading rate of 2 m per litre per coat. Allow it<br />
to dry for at least six hours or overnight, depending on<br />
the weather, before applying the subsequent coat. The<br />
application of 1-coat Primer and 3-coats Dr. Fixit Newcoat<br />
shall achieve a minimum thickness requirement of 1 mm<br />
DFT. The waterproofing membrane system will reach<br />
its optimum strengths and performance when it is fully<br />
cured for seven days.<br />
Conclusion<br />
Dr. Fixit Newcoat, the advanced acrylic co-polymer roof<br />
waterproofing technology, can meet high performance<br />
standard for exposed roofing system set by building<br />
and construction industries, architects, consultants,<br />
and property managing agents. It’s high QUALITY and<br />
PERFORMANCE has been tested and proven by using the<br />
American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) and<br />
Singapore Standard (SS) Standards.<br />
The “Water-Borne Technology” of Dr. Fixit Newcoat is<br />
the answer for the proactive approach and cares for<br />
clean environment and human safety on the exposure of<br />
the “toxic” chemical solvent. Water evaporated from Dr.<br />
Fixit Newcoat during the drying process is nontoxic and<br />
harmless to both environment and human beings.<br />
Precautions<br />
* All corners, gaps, joints, penetrations or protrusions,<br />
and outlets shall receive two additional coats liberally<br />
by bushing.<br />
} } Application must not be carried out when there is risk<br />
of rain, as the uncured coating will re-emulsify and<br />
cause premature damage.<br />
} } Application on excessively wet concrete substrate<br />
may cause bonding problem whereas application<br />
on extremely dry and hot substrate can cause<br />
premature drying and hence coating failure.<br />
} } Since Dr. Fixit Newcoat is used for exposed<br />
roof waterproofing system, it requires regular<br />
maintenance for long lasting waterproof protection<br />
up to 15 years.<br />
} } Its surface wearing capability is designed only for<br />
pedestrian or human traffic, and is not acceptable<br />
for vehicular traffic or heavy machinery equipment<br />
over it.<br />
Limitations<br />
} } Since Dr. Fixit Newcoat is used for exposed<br />
roof waterproofing system, it requires regular<br />
maintenance for long lasting waterproof protection<br />
up to 15 years.<br />
} } Its surface wearing capability is designed only for<br />
pedestrian or human traffic, and is not acceptable<br />
for vehicular traffic or heavy machinery equipment<br />
over it.<br />
Building Blocks - vol. <strong>19</strong><br />
13<br />
Advanced roof waterproofing technology
Building Blocks - vol. <strong>19</strong><br />
14<br />
Leak free Bathrooms<br />
Leak Free Bathrooms<br />
K Padmakar Construction Chemicals Division, Pidilite Industries Limited<br />
The bathroom is a home's most utilized room, however most of the time it is not given enough attention. Bathrooms are<br />
frequently exposed to moisture, failure to waterproof. It could lead to major problem.<br />
Bathroom waterproofing, whether new or old is<br />
always a subject during seminars & workshops. In new<br />
construction, although it is identified with only doing a<br />
brick-bat-coba treatment in the sunken portion, there is<br />
much more to be done, than just this treatment.<br />
By taking a look at the areas that definitely need<br />
waterproofing treatment, one will be surprised to<br />
the extent, one needs to detail into for a “properly<br />
waterproofed ” bathroom-toilet. Some of the areas that<br />
need special attention are<br />
Base Slab<br />
The base slab of bathrooms and toilets shall be<br />
treated with Dr Fixit Pidifin 2K, a flexible, heavy duty,<br />
impermeable, seamless, two component, cementitous<br />
polymer modified coating.<br />
Surface preparation: Surfaces to be applied upon<br />
must be clean, reasonably dry, free from dirt and loose<br />
material, and be as smooth as possible. Pre-wet the<br />
surface with water and allow surface water to evaporate.<br />
Application: Apply by brush or roller, a coat of Dr Fixit<br />
Pidfin 2K after mixing the two components mechanically<br />
over the prepared surface. Apply it at a rate of 12-14<br />
square meters/kg at a thickness of 500 600 microns<br />
and allow to dry for four to six hours. Apply second<br />
coat in the opposite direction at the same rate. After<br />
application of second coat of Dr Fixit Pidfin 2K, it gives<br />
the total thickness of 1 1.2 mm. The treatment is left as<br />
it is for 72 hours for air cure before carrying out the<br />
ponding test. Ponding test shall be carried out at a depth<br />
of 50 mm to determine water tightness.<br />
The waterproofing shall be carried at least 300 mm<br />
on vertical surfaces, or at least 150 mm above the<br />
floor finish level. The membrane shall be applied to the<br />
internals of the down pipes before laying of the tiles,<br />
bedding and floor traps. Upon successful completion of<br />
the ponding test, a layer of <strong>10</strong> mm cement and (ratio 1:4)<br />
protective screed, using Dr. Fixit Pidiproof LW Integral<br />
Waterproofing Compound @ 200 ml/ 50 kg bag of<br />
cement, shall be<br />
applied on top of<br />
the membrane.<br />
Care shall be taken<br />
while laying the<br />
protective screed so<br />
as not to damage<br />
the waterproofing<br />
membrane diagram.<br />
Tiling<br />
The tiling in wet areas like bathrooms/toilets etc shall<br />
be done with waterproof, non shrinking, ready to use<br />
polymerized tile adhesive Dr. Fixit FevimatE XL/ Roff<br />
Non-Skid Adhesive and the tile joints shall be filled with<br />
waterproof, non cracking, coloured, ready-to-use tile joint<br />
material Dr Fixit FevimatE TG/ Roff Rainbow Tile Mate.<br />
Surface preparation: Once the leveling screed (PCC) is<br />
laid in wet areas, it shall be cured for a minimum seven<br />
days. Remove all water and clean the surface where tile<br />
adhesive will be applied.<br />
Application: Dr Fixit Fevimate XL/Roff Non-Skid Adhesive<br />
is mixed with potable water at the proportion of 3:1<br />
(powder:water) with trowel/slow speed drill (50-<strong>10</strong>0 rpm)<br />
until a homogenous<br />
lump free paste is<br />
obtained. Care should<br />
be taken that the<br />
quantity, which can<br />
be consumed within 2<br />
hrs at 30°C. Adhesive<br />
is then spread to a<br />
thickness of approx,<br />
3-6 mm and comb with a notched trowel. The tiles are<br />
placed on the surface to be tiled and tapped properly<br />
to ensure complete coverage of the inner side of tiles<br />
without any air voids. The joint between two-tiles is kept<br />
with the 2 mm spacers provided with Dr. Fixit Fevimate<br />
XL / Roff Non-Skid Adhesive bag. The tiling is allowed<br />
to set for 24 hours before application of waterproof tile<br />
grout Dr Fixit Fevimate TG/ Roff Rainbow Tile Mate.<br />
Plumbing & Sanitary Joints<br />
All the tile joints shall be filled with polymer based tile<br />
grout, Dr. Fixit Fevimate TG/ Roff Rainbow Tile Mate,<br />
which is available in different colours.<br />
Dr. Fixit Fevimate<br />
TG/ Roff Rainbow<br />
Tile Mate is mixed<br />
with water in ratio of<br />
2.5:1 (Fevimate TG/<br />
RTM:Water) until a<br />
homogenous and<br />
desired consistency<br />
is achieved. The prepared paste is then filled into the<br />
gaps and excess material is removed by tooling.<br />
Clean and dry all the plumbing and sanitary joints. Fill<br />
these with polymer modified cement mortar. Prepare
polymer modified mortar by adding 6 to 8 Dr. Fixit<br />
Pidicrete URP by weight of cement.<br />
Gaps around Washbasin / Bathtubs<br />
Gaps around washbasin and bathtubs require special<br />
sealant that should withstand the temperature variations<br />
and movement. The ordinary sealant/cement filled joints<br />
will crack and leak with the passage of time.<br />
Such gaps/joints should be filled with non-shrinking,<br />
crack free acrylic based sealant Dr Fixit Gapfill. After<br />
application of Dr Fixit Gapfill, tooling should be done<br />
immediately with the help of suitable tooling knife. This<br />
will ensure the required compaction and adhesion with<br />
the surface. The joints applied with Dr. Fixit Gapfill will<br />
remain intact for a long time without showing a sign of<br />
deterioration.<br />
There can be a number of reasons for leakage in<br />
bathroom & toilets. Poor quality of construction and<br />
concrete with age or honeycombs & voids is the most<br />
common reason.<br />
Renovation of these areas without proper advice, also<br />
leads to leakages. Here are some of the other causes of<br />
leakages.<br />
Negligent Work in Plumbing and Sanitation<br />
Plumbing and sanitary fittings require some fore thought<br />
while planning for a leak free bathroom. But often on<br />
sites, the works are done in isolation, i.e. no co-ordination<br />
between the waterproofing contractors. This result<br />
in dampness and leakage, much after the owner has<br />
moved in. Plumbing lines must be checked by a plumber<br />
for leakage through joints or elbows/bends in the pipes.<br />
Fix up the joints, elbows or nipples with an effective<br />
caulking material.<br />
If the pipeline is being put back into the walls and reconcealed,<br />
use a polymer modified mortar made with<br />
either Dr Fixit Pidicrete URP or MBP to seal it back.<br />
This will ensure water-tightness. Nahani traps must be<br />
inspected for leakages. Fill up all the gaps around the<br />
pipes in the traps with an effective material like M Seal<br />
wet set.<br />
Leakage Through Conventionally tiled Surfaces<br />
Traditionally, tiling does not use waterproofing materials.<br />
It is done with grey or white cement, which will shrink<br />
and crack. The tile fixing material comprises of a neat<br />
cement paste made with water, which is applied partially<br />
on the back of a tile. This practice, however, does not<br />
give a <strong>10</strong>0 waterproof tiling solution.<br />
It is, therefore, important to COMPULSORILY user a tile<br />
adhesive like Roff NSA/ Dr. Fixit FevimatE XL for this.<br />
Through joints sealed with white cement<br />
Tile joints are still being grouted with white cement<br />
mixed with colour to match tiles. White cement shrinks<br />
and is a potential source of leakage to the gaps behind<br />
the tiles and the walls of the bathrooms. Rake out all<br />
the existing tile joints with a paste made with Roff<br />
Rainbow Tile Mate/ Dr. Fixit Fevimate TG added with Dr.<br />
Fixit Pidicrete MPB that ensures a water-tight grouting<br />
system.<br />
Joints between ceramic sanitary units<br />
Joints between ceramic sanitary units like wash basin,<br />
bathtub etc. are traditionally grouted with white cement,<br />
which cracks and allows seepage of water. Besides<br />
white cement starts looking shabby and often show up<br />
collection of dust/bacteria. Such joints can be raked out,<br />
and re-filled with Dr Fixit Gapfill, an acrylic based sealant<br />
that is easy to apply.<br />
Downtake pipes on the exterior walls<br />
Downtake pipes often leak at the joints allowing water to<br />
seep into the interior<br />
of the bathroom/<br />
toilet, resulting in<br />
dampness internally.<br />
These points can<br />
be re-done with a<br />
polymerised cementsand<br />
mortar prepared<br />
with Dr. Fixit Pidicrete<br />
MPB that will ensure no leakage.<br />
Toilets dripping with water from the roof slab<br />
If dripping from the upper side (roof slab) is persistent,<br />
drill hole to fix nozzles as advised by Dr. Fixit team,<br />
and grout Dr. Fixit PU Foam Injection 150 with a userfriendly<br />
pump. This<br />
injection will expand<br />
on contact with the<br />
water bearing cracks<br />
and permanently seal<br />
the leakage. Over a<br />
period of time the<br />
entire roof slab will<br />
become dry.<br />
To summarise, if all the necessary care is taken during<br />
construction of bathrooms and toilets, the bathrooms<br />
will remain waterproof for a longer time saving all the<br />
hassles of rectification at a later stage. One can achieve<br />
this with a negligible additional cost by using high<br />
performance modern materials available in the market.<br />
Building Blocks - vol. <strong>19</strong><br />
15<br />
Leak free Bathrooms
Building Blocks - vol. <strong>19</strong><br />
16<br />
Ask the expert<br />
Ask The Expert<br />
1. Suggest a good waterproofing system for terraces. Is your cementitious<br />
acrylic coating membrane, Dr. Fixit Pidifin 2K suitable ?<br />
Success of waterproofing for terraces with modern materials can be achieved by<br />
selecting the right system. Terrace slabs with continuous spans in a RCC structure<br />
can be waterproofed depending on the exposure it will be subjected to. If the<br />
terrace surface is an existing one already done with Brick Bat Coba, Lime terracing<br />
treatment or with ‘mud faska’ as is done in North India, then, Dr. Fixit Newcoat<br />
would be the most suitable system. Dr. Fixit Newcoat is a most modern system,<br />
very simple to apply, brush applied in 3 coats over a primer. This tough heavy-duty<br />
acrylic coating system is safe for walk-overs regularly. Besides, it has the capability<br />
to fill and bridge cracks that have developed on the surface very effectively. Just<br />
in case, minor shrinkage cracks are observed, just over-brushing them would be<br />
enough.<br />
Dr. Fixit Newcoat is a very user-friendly coating that will last for years.<br />
2. Fine! But, what if one wishes to have a garden on his terrace Nowadays,<br />
quite some societies/ commercial malls want to enjoy such a facility<br />
If this is your requirement, then the system will be completely different. You MUST<br />
opt for a Torch-on-system like Dr. Fixit Torchshield at 4 mm thickness. Only be<br />
sure that the specification is for a APP system, preferably with 180 gms / sq.m.<br />
So, the “Torchshield P4180” will be the right choice. Dr. Fixit Torchshield system is<br />
a polymer modified bitumen membrane that comes in rolls of size 1 metre X <strong>10</strong><br />
metre. It is applied by roofing experts, who insist for a minimum of 50 overlap of<br />
the rolls during application. Be sure you ask for rolls with a ‘sand-backed’ surface<br />
with the “anti-root” property, which keeps it safe from manure and pesticides that<br />
are used in the garden. Get in touch with us or, our authorised applicators, who<br />
can offer a proper and complete specification for a terrace garden waterproofing<br />
treatment.<br />
3. Where then do you suggest your Dr. Fixit Pidifin 2K?<br />
This system is meant for applications in small spanned slabs, sunken slabs, small<br />
balconies, porticos, etc. It can also be suggested for internal walls of water tanks<br />
built with brick walls. Another important recommended application in “new<br />
construction” is to apply it as a highly effective underlay for traditional treatments<br />
like Brick-bat coba, lime terracing (common in East & South India), or a ‘mud<br />
phaska’ that’s used in North India. These traditional systems primarily provide<br />
thermal insulation, but crack over a period of time. For instance, Brick-bat coba<br />
surface rich with cement, cracks due to shrinkage and gradually allows water to<br />
seep through. Dr. Fixit Pidifin 2K prevents the seepage of water to the slab below.<br />
4. You just mentioned about applying Dr. Fixit Pidifin 2K in water tanks with<br />
brick walls. What does one do if the water tank is cast completely with RCC?<br />
We have an answer for this too ! Capillary method of waterproofing is the best<br />
solution for RCC surfaces. Dr. Krystalline or Roff Hyseal is the answer. Both the<br />
products are based form powders. When mixed with water and brush-applied over<br />
a properly pre- wetted concrete surface, the material will start penetrating into the<br />
concrete pores and seals them. The penetration gradually deepens where needlelike<br />
crystals are formed and makes the concrete watertight. More the aggression<br />
of water ingress, more is the crystalline formation deeper and deeper. This system<br />
of waterproofing is IDEAL for not only concrete water tanks and reservoirs, but<br />
also for all buried concrete such as cable trenches, lift pits, etc. It serves as ideal<br />
specification for waterproofing of swimming pools too ! In homes or commercial<br />
buildings, the underside of leaking toilets / bathrooms or even roof slabs can be<br />
remedied with this system, where one has no access from the top. Remember,<br />
small cracks in concrete upto 0.4 mm will be sealed with the coating, but slightly<br />
wider cracks must be injected with suitable materials as suggested by Dr. Fixit.
New Initiatives<br />
To promote healthy construction practices, the healthy<br />
construction lecture series was launched in February<br />
last year.<br />
The objective is to create a platform where important<br />
professionals related construction industry gain<br />
knowledge about cutting edge developments in relevant<br />
technology. The event is a joint effort between Dr. Fixit<br />
Institute (DFI) & CC division. The target group for HCLS<br />
are structural engineers, consultants, architects, builders,<br />
key clients, etc.<br />
To ensure that we get the right kind of professionals<br />
we make sure that we deal with relevant topics,<br />
build relationship with the participants and get high<br />
credentials speakers.<br />
The invites are from the database of CC division & DFI.<br />
In addition, we leverage institutions like ICI, ASTR, ACCE,<br />
IIID and IIA to attract professional with whom we would<br />
like to build relationships. We use these events for<br />
generating publicity in media through our PR agency.<br />
The first event was held in February’09 in Bangalore<br />
& Mumbai where Mr. Wong Chun Won spoke about<br />
“Advances in Repairs & Restoration technologies”.<br />
After this the following meets took place throughout<br />
the year:<br />
Venue & Date Speaker Topic<br />
Kolkata - June’09 Dr. Casper Groot Masonry Repairs<br />
Delhi - June’ 09 Dr. Casper Groot Masonry Repairs<br />
Ahmedabad -<br />
Aug’09<br />
Prof. Sudhir K Jain Seismic Assessment<br />
& Retrofitting of RC<br />
Frame Buildings<br />
Chennai – Dec’09 Dr. P R Swarup Repair &<br />
Maintenance<br />
needs of Concrete<br />
Structures in India<br />
Bangalore –<br />
June’<strong>10</strong><br />
Dr. Gajanan<br />
Sabnis<br />
Sustainable<br />
Construction &<br />
Green Building<br />
Mumbai – June’<strong>10</strong> Dr. Gajanan Sabnis Sustainable<br />
Construction &<br />
Green Building<br />
Mr. Wong Chun Won<br />
Dr. Casper Groot<br />
Prof. Sudhir K Jain<br />
Dr. P R Swarup<br />
Building Blocks - vol. <strong>19</strong><br />
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New initiatives
Building Blocks - vol. <strong>19</strong><br />
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New initiatives<br />
Over the last decade,<br />
Dr. Fixit has established<br />
itself as a strong<br />
waterproofing and building<br />
repairs expert brand in<br />
Construction Chemicals category in India and abroad.<br />
The credit goes to its strong & consistent advertising<br />
& branding exercise over the years. Taking a step<br />
further in this direction, Dr. Fixit concluded a national<br />
advertising campaign in February – March ‘20<strong>10</strong>, for<br />
Dr. Fixit Newcoat – a waterproof coating for terrace.<br />
The intention was to challenge conventional methods<br />
of terrace waterproofing by highlighting the fact that<br />
Dr. Fixit Newcoat is a quick and hassle free solution for<br />
waterproofing of terraces. Since you don’t need to break<br />
the terrace to waterproof it, the campaign was branded<br />
as NO BREAKING NEWS campaign.<br />
The objective of the NBN campaign was<br />
} } To challenge the notion that one has to break the<br />
terrace to waterproof it and;<br />
} } To introduce the concept of Dr. Fixit Newcoat as<br />
a quick and long lasting waterproofing option for<br />
terrace<br />
Television was used as the primary medium for this<br />
campaign. This national campaign has generated huge<br />
awareness among the customers & consumers. The<br />
innovation like sponsoring of Shahrukh Khan “without<br />
any break” interview on Star News has been appreciated.
Free Health Check-up<br />
A very successful FREE HEALTH CHECK-UP based<br />
campaign for terrace waterproofing was carried out in<br />
the key markets, including metro cities. This helped in<br />
translating the high awareness created through NBN<br />
Roff Launch<br />
The first applicator launch took place in Ahmedabad<br />
on 27th April with over 150 applicators in attendance.<br />
The theme of the event was “Koi bhi problem... Ab no<br />
problem!”. The event opened with ‘Laughter Champion’<br />
Parag Kansara entertaining the applicators with his<br />
rustic humour. Then, he interacted with the crowd to<br />
understand the problems they faced. He then declared<br />
that the solution for their problems “ROFF” is here!<br />
After the entire range was launched with fanfare in<br />
presence of Mr. Sushil Luniya, the applicators were taken<br />
through the interactive AV “Roff Guide to Problem Free<br />
Tile Fixing”. The applicators were delighted to see such<br />
campaign into trials of Dr. Fixit Newcoat. The awareness<br />
about Free Health Check-up drive has been generated<br />
through Press campaign using attention grabbing strip<br />
ads in newspaper.<br />
This campaign, coupled with ground activation, got a<br />
phenomenal response in terms of number of enquiries<br />
generated. Our esteemed Dr. Fixit Applicator, Mr. Yusuf<br />
Dalal of Superior Waterproofing Solutions, Mumbai,<br />
mentioned "Free Health Check-up drive for terrace<br />
waterproofing has helped his firm to get big sites for<br />
waterproofing. He thanked Dr. Fixit team and wished<br />
such campaign should be done on regular basis."<br />
Therefore, Dr. Fixit is coming up with similar campaigns<br />
with ground activation in near future. We expect the<br />
same overwhelming response from you.<br />
a large product range that would solve their common<br />
tile and stone fixing problems. After dinner, all the<br />
applicators were gifted a Roff Tool Kit.<br />
Building Blocks - vol. <strong>19</strong><br />
<strong>19</strong><br />
New initiatives
Building Blocks - vol. <strong>19</strong><br />
20<br />
New initiatives<br />
Dr. Fixit launches “Interactive Guide to<br />
Healthy Construction”<br />
Over the last<br />
decade, Dr. Fixit<br />
has promoted<br />
the concept<br />
of healthy<br />
construction in<br />
India through<br />
the Dr. Fixit<br />
institute. The aim<br />
is to disseminate<br />
best practices in the construction industry through<br />
educational courses, expert lectures and publications.<br />
Keeping in line with this objective; Pidilite has created<br />
special interactive software for the builders community.<br />
The “Interactive Guide to Healthy Construction” not<br />
only covers the entire gamut of solutions provided by Dr.<br />
Fixit but also includes application of other Pidilite brands<br />
like Fevicol, Mseal, Roff etc.<br />
The aim is to<br />
provide right<br />
solutions to the<br />
problems which<br />
are faced by the<br />
builders while<br />
constructing new<br />
structures. The<br />
solutions are<br />
compiled as per<br />
different part of the building like basements, RCC water<br />
tanks, exterior walls, terraces, wet areas, bed/living/<br />
general areas, recreational areas, etc.<br />
Builders Association of India (BAI), which also believes<br />
in propagating the best construction practices, decided<br />
to launch this Interactive Guide. This unique Interactive<br />
Guide was launched on April 30, 20<strong>10</strong> in the hands of<br />
Mr. Pravin Doshi, President of Maharashtra Chambers<br />
of Housing Industry, in presence of Mr. Sushil Luniya,<br />
President of Pidilite Industries Ltd.<br />
Speaking on the occasion,<br />
Mr. Luniya said “We are happy that Builders’ Association<br />
of India has partnered with us in<br />
propagating the gospel of healthy<br />
construction in India.<br />
I am sure the building<br />
community will find this as<br />
an invaluable tool in their<br />
quest for building world class<br />
structures!”<br />
Launch of Dr. Fixit Industrial Flooring<br />
Dr. Fixit Industrial flooring has been launched to<br />
introduce<br />
our complete<br />
flooring solutions<br />
to flooring<br />
applicators. Our<br />
range comprises<br />
of Floor Hardners,<br />
Cementitous<br />
Underlays,<br />
Moisture Barrier<br />
underlayments, Floor Refurbishment, Epoxy/ PU finishes,<br />
PU Traffic deck Systems, Chemical Resistance Novolac<br />
System and Ancillaries like Epoxy Putties, Epoxy-PU<br />
Hybrid Sealants, etc.<br />
Launch of Pidilite Smartcare Hospitality<br />
Module<br />
The company has also ventured<br />
into fulfilling requirements<br />
in health care and hospitality<br />
segment through its SMARTCARE<br />
range of products. These products<br />
are specially developed considering<br />
key requirements such as anti<br />
bacterial and hygienic solutions.<br />
Pidilite Smartcare Hospitality Module got launched in<br />
Chennai on 28 th April ’<strong>10</strong>. It is a single window solution<br />
which caters to hospitality sector & offers hygienic &<br />
germ-free solutions.<br />
Customer Relations<br />
The company continued to take several initiatives to<br />
improve awareness of its products and brands, increase<br />
consumption of its products and strengthen relationship<br />
with customers, influencers and end-users.<br />
} } Dr. Fixit Institute of Structural,<br />
Protection and Rehabilitation<br />
continued the successful Healthy<br />
Construction Lecture Series<br />
to increase awareness of the<br />
Global Best Practices in this field.<br />
3R - A publication for top end of<br />
specifiers on Repair, Rehabilitation<br />
and Restoration was initiated<br />
to position DFI and Dr Fixit brand as an Expert in<br />
Construction Chemicals.<br />
} } In addition activities like Toll Free service for<br />
professionals, Certification Program for Applicators,<br />
participation in ACE Tech (Economic Times)<br />
Architects exhibitions were carried out to reach out<br />
to professionals
New Products<br />
<strong>DR</strong>. <strong>FIXIT</strong> POWERCRETE<br />
A P O W E R F U L C O AT I N G S Y S T E M F O R W A -<br />
T E R P R O O F I N G A N D R E P A I R S<br />
An acrylic polymer based economical elastomeric<br />
waterproofing system for protecting concrete & masonry<br />
surfaces.<br />
Areas of application<br />
Concrete structures like sunken portion, toilets, balcony,<br />
basement, chajjahs, terrace, concrete repairs and water<br />
retaining structures.<br />
Features & benefits<br />
} } A tough, hard wearing, breathable waterproofing<br />
system for residential, industrial, housing and<br />
commercial buildings.<br />
} } Can be applied in uniform thickness to horizontal and<br />
vertical surfaces.<br />
} } Excellent bond to most building materials.<br />
} } Reduces or prevents salt penetration into concrete.<br />
} } High ultra voilet resistance.<br />
} } Highly durable.<br />
} } Economical system.<br />
} } Is non-flammable and does not give off toxic gases,<br />
when exposed to fire.<br />
Coverage<br />
} } Coating/Slurry Mix Proportion : <strong>10</strong>0 kg cement : 50<br />
kg Powercrete Polymer<br />
Packaging 1, 5, 20 & 50 kg container<br />
ROFF UNDERTILE<br />
S B R B A S E D W AT E R P R O O F M E M B R A N E<br />
ROFF Undertile is a acrylic based Waterproofing<br />
Membrane. It is a roller applied liquid that forms a<br />
waterproof membrane for use under thin & thick bed<br />
installations of ceramic tile and stone, and other<br />
finishes.<br />
Areas of application<br />
Recommended for residential and commercial floor and<br />
wall installations such as: kitchens, bathrooms, gang<br />
showers and balconies in interior used only. Also for<br />
patching of non structural cracks upto 3 mm.<br />
Features & benefits<br />
} } Single component, ready to use – brush applicable<br />
} } Water cleanable when fresh<br />
} } Non-flammable<br />
} } Higher flexibility<br />
Coverage<br />
} } Approximately 25.5 - 27.5 Sq. mtr. per 20 ltr. 2 coats<br />
for a total wet thickness of 1.0 – 1.5 mm.<br />
} } Coverage varies based on substrate texture &<br />
porosity, and application technique.<br />
Packaging 5 Litre & 20 Litre<br />
Building Blocks - vol. <strong>19</strong><br />
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New Products
Building Blocks - vol. <strong>19</strong><br />
22<br />
News<br />
News<br />
Activities of DFI –SPR (July - October 20<strong>10</strong>)<br />
Sr. No. Programme Date Location<br />
1 Build your structure waterproof 22 nd & 23 rd July 20<strong>10</strong> DFI - SPR Premises Mumbai<br />
2 Tackle cracks in structures – A holistic approach 8 th October 20<strong>10</strong> DFI – SPR Premises Mumbai<br />
For participation in any of the DFI program & any enquiry related to Dr. Fixit Institute, please contact Tirtha Pratim Banerjee on<br />
022 – 28357683 or e-mail at tirtha.banerjee@pidilite.com<br />
Some of Our Recent Projects<br />
Site: Monk, Kathmandu, Nepal<br />
Product used: Dr. Fixit Pidifin 2K for Roof<br />
treatment<br />
Site: Calicut Tower, Calicut<br />
Product used: Dr. Fixit Newcoat + Dr. Fixit<br />
Heatshield for terrace<br />
Exhibitions<br />
Site: P. S. Ingle House, Nagpur<br />
Product used: Dr. Fixit Raincoat for exterior<br />
Site: NITTE Education Trust, Manglore<br />
Product used: Dr. Fixit Raincoat for exterior<br />
Arch. Association, Cochin ACETECH, Mumbai ACETECH, Delhi<br />
Site: Valmark, Banglore<br />
Product used: Dr. Fixit Fastflex for podium<br />
Site: MIMS, Kottakal, Kerala<br />
Product used: Dr. Fixit Raincoat for exterior
Meets & Programme<br />
Applicator Level 1 - Meet, Kollam<br />
Tile Mason Meet, Calicut<br />
Tile Mason Meet, Kunnamangalam<br />
Painters Meet, Mananthavadav<br />
Applicator Level 1 - Meet, Cochin<br />
Engineers Meet, Chennai<br />
SIS & Dealer Meet, Chennai<br />
Engineers Meet, Kottayam<br />
Dealer Meet, Cochin<br />
Painters Meet, Irinjalakuda<br />
Engineers Meet, Chennai<br />
Masons Meet, Calicut<br />
For any suggestions, please feel free to contact us at Pidilite Industries Ltd., Construction Chemicals Division,<br />
Ramkrishna Mandir Road, P.O.Box No.17411, Andheri (E), Mumbai-400 059. Phone : 2835 7000, 2835 7111 • Fax : (022) 2835 7008<br />
CALL <strong>DR</strong>. <strong>FIXIT</strong> ADVICE CENTRE TOLL FREE NO. FOR EXPERT ADVICE 1800 209 5504<br />
• Website: www.doctor-fixit.com • email: drfixit@pidilite.com<br />
Building Blocks - vol. <strong>19</strong><br />
23<br />
News
Building Blocks - vol. <strong>19</strong><br />
24<br />
Printed, Published & Edited by Bharat Gothoskar on behalf of Pidilite Industries Ltd. Ram Krishna Mandir Road, Off. M. Vasanji Road, Andheri (East),<br />
Mumbai 400 059 and printed from Amsit, 40-C, Sidhpura Industrial Estate, 1st Floor, S. V. Road, Goregoan (West), Mumbai 400 062.<br />
English