MBR_ISSUE 43_LOWRES

Malta Business Review
BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION
WATERPROOFING WHEN THE HEAT IS ON
Implementation of Thermal Waterproofing with Fibreglass reinforcement
Malta is an island with little rainfall and
plenty of sunshine, needless to stress on
the importance of solar panels, however
there are two important factors that
must be addressed before installing
them. First we must install a very good
waterproofing membrane preferably
made from quality resins and reinforced
with fiberglass that is designed to last
for decades. This is of utmost importance
as it would be very difficult to apply it
benaght the panels afterwards. While
the second factor is to avoid at all costs
fixing the panels directly to the roof
with bolts and nuts. It should always
be mounted on separate elevated metal
structures or stone slabs.
Nowadays thermal insulation in buildings
is another important factor as it reduces
unwanted heat loss or gain and can decrease
the energy demands of heating and cooling
systems. All this change in the building industry
brings new opportunities and new solutions. It
is these unaware problems that drive serious
pro-environment companies like NAICI to
find simple yet innovative and effective
solutions for this havoc. We were ecstatic
when we heard about the new GUAINA
REFLEX thermal membrane; it is a simple yet
effective solution. This revolutionary product
is the perfect answer for our flat roofs here
in Malta. Besides its strong waterproofing
properties, this new resin liquid membrane
has thermal properties, making it unique
and hence reduces by far heat intake inside
buildings by 90%. A better setting in our
houses or workplace will lead to a less humid
environment and a healthier lifestyle But the
most astonishing property of this innovative
product is the ability to increase the efficiency
and the intake of solar panels by redirecting
the sunrays horizontally towards them. This
means more money in the owner’s pocket
and an increase of cleaner energy.
There are many products on the market
with a variety of prices. Many materials
do not withstand the entire winter season
due to their lack of UV resistance and poor
quality materials. Other simply melt when it
is too hot. In order for us to make sure that
our purchased product will last for many
years to come the following standards and
certifications should be clearly visible on
each and every can for reassurance of a good
quality product.
• UV stability - the ability to withstand
sun rays.
• Elongation - the elasticity of the
product. It is measured in percentages.
Application of fibre glass reinforced membrane to waterproof and
increase solar pannel intake
Elongation of 150% means that the
membrane can stretch to one and half
times its length when pulled.
• Tear Resistance - it gives a fair idea of
tearing resistance
• Chemical stability - If it is harmful to
the environment and to humans during
application and resistance to chemicals
such as household detergents.
• Case Studies - visit the manufacturer
internet site or ask the importer to see
the product data sheet to determine
the right application modalities, also
if possible inquire where and why that
particular product was implemented.
• CE Mark - European Standard.
• Thermal insulation - the ability to
redirect all sun rays and does not allow
theformation of heat.
Preparation and proper product application
are the secret to prevent a piss poor
performance. It sounds simple when you read
it but it requires dedicated people with a lot of
good will and the desire to always learn new
things in order to be achieved.
One also has to consider who will implement
the waterproofing works. REMEMBER
never let anyone experiment with your
home. Delicate works like waterproofing
should be carried out by professionals
and properly trained people. Always make
sure that the persons commissioned for
the works are affiliated with the Malta
Professional Waterproofing and Resin
Flooring Association and in possession of
the Certified Installers Card. This way you
are assured of their trustworthiness to carry
out the waterproofing works to the stringent
requirements of the trade.
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