Waterproofing · Completed

University of Mpumalanga Roof Waterproofing

Gunning & Son specified a torch-on membrane waterproofing system for a University of Mpumalanga concrete roof and supported the applicator to protect roughly 1,200 m² against water ingress.

Location: South Africa

University of Mpumalanga Roof Waterproofing project
Project Overview

For a concrete roof at the University of Mpumalanga, Gunning & Son specified a double-layer torch-on waterproofing membrane with a mineral chip finish, covering approximately 1,200 m² at 7 mm, and worked with the applicator to deliver it. The system was selected to give the roof a robust, weather-exposed barrier against rainfall and ponding.

The completed waterproofing protects the concrete structure and the spaces below from water ingress, while the mineral chip finish adds a durable, UV-resistant wearing surface. The two-layer build gives redundancy against membrane damage and helps extend the life of the roof.

A specified double-layer torch-on membrane with mineral chip finish waterproofing roughly 1,200 m² of a University of Mpumalanga roof, delivered with the applicator.

A specified double-layer torch-on membrane with mineral chip finish waterproofing roughly 1,200 m² of a University of Mpumalanga roof, delivered with the applicator.

Scope of Work

Gunning & Son’s role covered selecting a membrane system suited to the exposure and supporting its delivery, detailed around upstands, outlets and penetrations to seal the roof against water. Installation was carried out by the applicator.

  • Assessment of the concrete roof deck and exposure conditions

  • Recommendation and specification of a double-layer torch-on membrane at 7 mm across approximately 1,200 m²

  • Guidance on detailing of upstands, outlets and penetrations to prevent ingress

  • Technical support to the applicator and sign-off of the completed system

Membrane selection, specification and on-site support for a two-layer torch-on system across about 1,200 m² of concrete roof.

Membrane selection, specification and on-site support for a two-layer torch-on system across about 1,200 m² of concrete roof.

Site Conditions & Challenges

Roof waterproofing has to contend with the full weather exposure of a large concrete deck: heavy seasonal rain, heat, UV and thermal movement that can open up any weak detail. On a working campus, the work must be carried out safely at height and coordinated so that activity in the spaces below is not disrupted. The most demanding areas are the upstands, outlets and penetrations, where most roof leaks begin and where careful detailing is essential.

Specifying for a large, weather-exposed concrete roof delivered safely at height on a working campus.

Specifying for a large, weather-exposed concrete roof delivered safely at height on a working campus.

Our Approach

Gunning & Son recommended a two-layer torch-on membrane to build redundancy into the system, finished with mineral chip for a durable, UV-resistant surface, and specified careful detailing at upstands, outlets and penetrations. Working alongside the applicator, the company provided product and technical guidance so the membrane was installed as specified and delivery was sequenced across the roughly 1,200 m². Safe access at height was coordinated so the roof could be progressively sealed and the building protected against the next rainfall.

Recommended a two-layer torch-on membrane with careful detailing and UV-resistant mineral chip, guiding the applicator through delivery.

Recommended a two-layer torch-on membrane with careful detailing and UV-resistant mineral chip, guiding the applicator through delivery.

Results Delivered

The University of Mpumalanga gained a fully waterproofed concrete roof protected by a two-layer torch-on system with a mineral chip finish. The build guards the structure and interior against water ingress, adds a weather- and UV-resistant wearing surface, and gives the campus a durable roof covering suited to the region’s rainfall and sun.

A durable, fully waterproofed roof that protects the structure and interior against water ingress.

A durable, fully waterproofed roof that protects the structure and interior against water ingress.

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