Preprufe Plus Waterproofing for Commercial Bay from GCP

The 57,000-square-metre Commercial Bay project along the southern shore of the Waitemata Harbour in Auckland, New Zealand is set to be the largest mixed-use development in the city. Featuring a new 39-level office tower and 18,000 square metres of retail, Commercial Bay connects to an underground rail station and is expected to transform the waterfront from an ageing mall into a hub for commerce, trade and transport.

With three basement levels more than 17 metres deep, the Commercial Bay project required a waterproofing solution that would work in a wet and muddy environment while addressing the complex architectural design. At the same time, the solution had to form a permanent, continuous seal against water and a barrier to resist the stress of ground settlement.

The new office tower was constructed among three existing buildings, making waterproofing a challenge due to the differential movement between buildings, which can damage the waterproofing if the design, or movement limiting structural designs, is not durable. Since the waterproofing application was scheduled to take place during winter, with its heavy rainfall and a high chance of mud contamination, the specifier wanted a solution that would be unaffected by the climate and would be fast and easy to install.

Given the specific requirements of the job, PREPRUFE® Plus pre-applied waterproofing membranes from GCP Applied Technologies (GCP) were selected to protect the project's basement and transport connection link. Sansom Construction Systems Ltd, a construction and engineering company, delivered the solution after consulting with the developer Precinct Properties.

Designed with Advanced Bond Technology™ and dual adhesive ZIPLAP™ seams, PREPRUFE® Plus membranes form a unique, integral bond to poured concrete. This integral bond provides a robust barrier to water, moisture and gas and prevents both the ingress and lateral migration of water. PREPRUFE® Plus membranes are unique composite sheets comprised of a durable and flexible backing membrane, pressure-sensitive adhesive and patented, weather-resistant protective coating.

Another benefit of the PREPRUFE® Plus products is their absence of a release liner. This enables a more efficient and reliable installation. PREPRUFE® Plus products require minimal cleaning before concrete pouring - just a quick hose off. The pre-applied waterproofing membranes can be trafficked immediately after application and are ready for an immediate placing of reinforcement. PREPRUFE® Plus membranes with ZIPLAP™ seams allow for an adhesive-to-adhesive bond at membrane sheet overlaps and deliver superior performance in harsh conditions, without the need for specialised equipment, heat or power.

For further information, please visit www.gcpat.com.au today.