(as 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

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WATERPROOFING OF DOMESTIC WET AREAS AS 3740 – 2010 Compliance & Practical Applications Half Day Course

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Page 1: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

WATERPROOFING OF DOMESTIC WET AREAS

AS 3740 – 2010

Compliance & Practical Applications

Half Day Course

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Introduction: Aim of this course is to provide an understanding of internal wet area construction relevant to BCA requirements and compliance with BCA and AS3740-2010. This course details practical design applications compliant with the Standard and wet area defect awareness. While BCA and AS 3740-2010 compliance is mandatory, regional practices will vary according to local government requirements and market influences. Open discussion throughout the course is recommended, in order to identify local issues.
Page 2: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Building Defects.

Waterproofing and wet area failures represent 70% of building defects Nationally

Average cost of shower rebuild (900 x 900 tiled)

$4500 Average cost of medium risk (bathroom floor

areas) $4300 Average cost of collateral damage

(ceilings, painting, frame repair)

$2100

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Shower rebuild involves demolition, framing, plumbing connections, re-instate substrates, barriers, waterproofing, surface linings and fittings. Shower reconstruction should not be limited to base rebuilds only. The complete risk area, being the full shower to minimum 1800mm height must be re-constructed to current BCA and AS 3740-2010 requirements. Wet area rectification represents 70% of building defects nationally. Rectification costs are 6 to 10 times the initial cost of membrane installation. Shower reconstruction involves demolition, framing, plumbing connections, re-instate substrates, barriers, waterproofing, surface linings and fittings. This may cost $ 4000 to $ 6000, where the initial membrane application may have been $ 400 to $ 500. Shower reconstruction should not be limited to base rebuilds only. The complete risk area, being the full shower to minimum 1800mm height must be re-constructed to current BCA and AS 3740-2010 requirements. Collateral damage :replaster, repaint walls and ceilings. Replace damaged carpet etc. Above estimates are conservative. Most bathroom renovations are in the range of $15 000 to $20 000.
Page 3: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

BCA Requirements

Building Code of Australia ( BCA ) reference AS 3740 – 2010 and Amendment 1 – 2012 as the technical Deemed to Satisfy building solution.

BCA and AS3740 are minimum mandatory requirements.

BCA Table 3.8.1.1 and AS 3740 Table C1 provide waterproof and water resistant requirements for designated wet areas.

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Shower rebuild involves demolition, framing, plumbing connections, re-instate substrates, barriers, waterproofing, surface linings and fittings. Shower reconstruction should not be limited to base rebuilds only. The complete risk area, being the full shower to minimum 1800mm height must be re-constructed to current BCA and AS 3740-2010 requirements. Medium risk areas are required to be re-instated to current BCA requirements, where they are affected requiring re-construction. Damaged flooring outside the shower area will demand the prescribed waterproofing treatment to the entire risk area. E.g.. Full bathroom floor and skirting. Collateral damage :replaster, repaint walls and ceilings. Replace damaged carpet etc. Above estimates are conservative. Most bathroom renovations are in the range of $15 000 to $20 000.
Page 4: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

BCA Requirements

Waterproof Material − A material that is

impervious to moisture

Water Resistant Material − A material that will

not deteriorate when exposed to moisture

Presenter
Presentation Notes
The Standard’s Table C1 is reproduced in BCA as the key to identifying areas required to be waterproof and water resistant. Waterproof :a material that is impervious to water. Such as glass panel shower screen, bath tub, shower tray and waterproofing membranes. Water resistant :a material that will not degrade when exposed to moisture. Such as ceramic tiles, marble, C1 and C2 tile adhesives, mortar screed and cement grouts. Photo: non-water resistant carpet was installed as a wall lining around the entire bathroom. Timber floor is non- compliant floor finish.
Page 5: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

The 2 Things

Performance requirements by BCA Vol 1 FP 1.6 and Vol 2 P 2.4.1

“To protect the structure of the building and to maintain the amenity of the occupants, water must be prevented from penetrating

a) behind fittings and linings; or b) into concealed spaces of sanitary facilities, bathrooms,

laundries and the like” “Overflow…must be prevented from penetrating to – another sole

occupancy unit… - public areas…in a storey below in the same building.”

KEEP WATER CONTAINED WITHIN THE DESIGNATED WET AREA !

.

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Wet area design and construction principles must retain water in the designated wet area. BCA requires that water is not allowed to damage other building elements. This means that water is not allowed to enter other rooms or cavities. A shower recess is classified as a wet area, in it’s own right. Therefore water should not exit the shower area, even though it may be traversing into another waterproofed bathroom floor. This is common with hobless showers, where there is no or ineffective barrier angle. BCA also states that the health and amenity of the occupants must not be adversely affected. Membrane applications below screed, with ineffective sub-tile drainage will result in bed saturation and bacterial colonisation. This results in mould concentrations. Failure to meet the BCA performance provisions is a legislative breach in most States and Territories, regardless of the detail engaged with the waterproofing application.
Page 6: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

BCA Compliance

Designated Wet Areas ( Table C1 ) − Shower – High Risk

− Bathroom, Ensuite –

Medium Risk

− Laundry, Laundrette, W/C – Low Risk

Presenter
Presentation Notes
All listed are designated wet areas. A shower recess is a designated wet area in it’s own right, as a high usage area; subject to saturation, hydrostatic pressure from water tables, high concentrations of condensation, and water movement behind wall linings through gravitational flow and capillary action. Laundrettes and wash cabinets, such as recessed areas in a Class 10 garage are also classified wet areas and require waterproofing according to the Standard. They require a barrier stop angle, perimeter flashing, vessel sealant connection and membrane application. Compliant materials must be in combination. No timber or MDF skirting ! Kitchens in Class 1 buildings are not classified as wet areas. They are habitable food preparation areas, and therefore do not require any levels of waterproofing under the Standard. However BCA Performance Provisions specify that water should not cause damage to other building elements, or enter cavities. Therefore best practice would suggest that kitchen benches should be sealed to wall substrates and waterproofing applied to sink splash backs, dish washer recesses and service penetrations. Even if kitchens are not identified as a wet area under AS 3740, Performance Provision failure may still be determined as a breach of BCA requirements.
Page 7: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

THE 2 THINGS

AS 3740 – 2010 Section 2 lists − Waterproof & Water Resistant Substrates − Waterproof & Water Resistant Linings

Compliant substrate and surface lining materials must be used in combination.

USE ONLY COMPLIANT WATERPROOF & WATER RESISTANT MATERIALS IN WET AREAS !!

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Compliant substrate and lining materials must be used in combination, in order to comply with the Standard. One cannot exist without the other. Practitioners cannot fully waterproof a bathroom floor and then lay non-water resistant carpet, as the floor covering. Laminated panel sheeting cannot be installed over unprotected plasterboard substrate sheeting. This includes the use of compatible adhesives and other installation materials. Solvent based construction adhesives should not be used to install laminated panelling onto water based membranes. Seek manufacturer advice for a compatible solution. Welded vinyl flooring, on it’s own, is non-compliant. AS 3740-2.4.2 and 2.4.3 state that listed substrate materials are compliant when used in CONJUNCTION with compliant lining materials. The reverse applies, where lining materials only become compliant when in CONJUNCTION with listed substrate materials. They must be in COMBINATION. It is not permitted to use one without the other. For example, an open and unenclosed disabled bathroom shower with a weighted curtain deems the entire bathroom floor as a shower floor. Table C1 requires a shower floor to be waterproof and not water resistant. Therefore a waterproof membrane must be applied over the water resistant concrete substrate in CONJUNCTION with welded vinyl lining material. A shower area is subject to saturation and condensation behind the vinyl, which may damage unprotected materials, and promote moisture movement out of the wet area through capillary action. A compatibility chain should be established with all materials used. Isolation screeds, in the form of levelling or feathering compounds, may be used in the above example where solvent based contact adhesives are at risk of compromising water based membranes. Compliant materials are listed in Section 2 of the Standard.
Page 8: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Materials in Combination

Lamipanel on non-compliant W/R Board lining WR Board exposed

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Photo Left:W/R Board unsealed at base of wall. No membrane application. Laminated sheet panel had been installed directly over the plaster sheeting. Photo Right:Back of same Water Resistant plaster board sheeting shows water staining and damage to unprotected W/R board. Correct procedure:Sheets should be fitted with 6mm clearance at the tray and 3 to 5mm clearance between sheet joints. This is to accommodate movement and allow for sealant application to the exposed sheet edge. Seal the sheet/tray junction with compatible Type 2 connector sealant, full wall waterproofing to extent of shower above FFL, application of non-solvent based construction adhesive with vertical lines at 100mm spacings, or sawtooth trowelled with 90% contact coverage to fit laminated sheet panelling. Water based construction adhesive, suitable for use with polystyrene cladding and wet areas is suitable. A feathering compound may need to be used to isolate non-compatible products or as a porous medium to allow curing of the adhesive. This should be confirmed with material manufacturer. Air pockets with squiggle fixing, form moisture pockets from condensation and capillary tracking. Excessive trapped moisture will result in mould concentration adversely affecting the health and amenity of occupants. Oversealing of the laminated sheeting into the non-porous tray receptacle, resulting in constricted drainage from behind the sheeting and mould concentrations.
Page 9: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Materials in Combination

Screen onTimber substrate Plaster sheeting in shower

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Photo Left:Shower screen fitted to non-compliant timber wall panelling. Solution is to remove timber wall panelling, sheet in wet area sheeting, waterproof, tile and fit shower screen to compliant lining and substrate with screen penetrations sealed. Membrane application does not extend to the exterior edge of the tray, which must be onto compliant water resistant substrate. This shower leaked as water guttered along the tray edge and leaked behind the timber wall panelling and through to the laundry below. The shower screen must not be fitted to non-compliant materials, such as timber panelling, or painted and plastered wall sheeting. Photo Right:Non-compliant plasterboard sheeting substrate and non- water resistant plaster setting. Setting and plasterboard is to be removed and replaced with formed 6mm wet area cement sheeting. Compliant substrate will then be waterproofed and lined with mosaic tiling. This construction may have been waterproofed as is, however non-water resistant substrates are not stable in high moisture environments. Plaster setting will result in membrane delamination and blistering, which can lead to rupture and degradation of the non-water resistant materials.
Page 10: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

AS 3740 Compliant Materials

Compliant Materials

Substrate o Concrete o Compressed F/C sheeting o Render ( with WP additive) o WR plasterboard (W Proofed) o Structural timber floor

( W Proofed)

Lining o Thermoset laminated sheeting o Tiles ( ceramic, stone, composite) o Welded sheet vinyl with

compliant substrate o Sanitary grade acrylic sheeting

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Manufacturers recommendations should be referred to, in conjunction with the Standard’s requirements. Eg.Timber sheet flooring in W/C must be water resistant according to Table C1. Timber sheet flooring manufacturer’s recommend that their product is suitable for use in internal wet areas such as bathrooms, laundries and W/C where an impervious coating is applied. All timber floor substrates must, therefore be fully waterproofed. Water resistant plasterboard should also be fully coated in membrane systems in high risk ( shower ) areas to comply with manufacturer requirements. Welded sheet vinyl, alone does not comply. Sheet vinyl must be installed in conjunction with waterproof/ water resistant substrate. Compliant materials must extend to the required limit of designated wet areas. wall tiling and underlying waterproofing protection extends to ceiling height, at the ceiling rose connection level.
Page 11: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Non-Compliant Materials

Non – compliant materials

Plaster setting/topping − no setting or joint fixing in high risk areas − waterproof horizontal joints/external corners. − seal all mechanical fixings.

Timber door/window reveals & mouldings − waterproof window reveals/remove architraves. − seal against adjacent door trims.

Untreated masonry/render − “Render to be waterproofed to prevent moisture movement by capillary action or wicking”

− Fully waterproof rendered shower walls to 1800mm from FL Incompatible materials

− primer/membrane/adhesives/sealants. − suitability of materials according to design − test tiles for shadowing − the right sealant for the job.

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Non compliant materials must not be included in the designated protection zones of the wet area, or must be protected from damage by water. Plaster setting to joints and sheet fixings should be omitted from the high risk wet areas ( shower ). Plaster setting is not required where sheet joints and penetrations are to be covered by tiles etc. Sheet joints should be supported by blocking, joint sealed and waterproofed. Where setting compounds are installed, they should be of water resistant materials and must not be finished with topping compounds. Toppings are not stable and are dispersion materials, relying on moisture evaporation to set. They will degrade when exposed to moisture contact. Timber is not water resistant and should be excluded or at least protected in designated wet areas. Timber window mouldings and reveals in shower/ baths should be removed, over sheeted, waterproofed and tiled to the extent of the rose connection height and to 1500mm from the rose connection. Where materials cannot be removed, they should be primed and protected by waterproofing membrane with either overlay materials or a Type 4 connector sealant. Tiles that do not have an AS/ ISO compliance notice on the packaging should be queried. Installation of materials means that they have been accepted as suitable for purpose, by the contractor. Darkened tiles in new installations may be an indication of faulty wall tiles, not fit for purpose. Current material Standards require coating of glazed tiles with Engobe. This coating prevents shadowing from moisture behind the tiles. If the tiles darken, the Engobe process may not have been applied. Darkened stone tiles may not be unusual, as marble and limestone, etc. are porous with no impervious coating. Masonry and render are porous, although water resistant, and should be fully waterproofed, to limit moisture transference by capillary action. Compatibility must be maintained through the entire chain of construction. This can be ensured by seeking a single supplier for complimentary materials and documenting all materials used.
Page 12: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Non-Compliant Materials

Plaster set nib wall Timber adj shower

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Photo Right:timber architrave contacting with hobless barrier stop angle. Unprotected timber subjected to water damage and will allow water to exit the ( High Risk ) shower area, and the ( Medium Risk ) bathroom. Solution is to tape off timber, apply Type 2 connector sealant and dress waterproofing to sealant. Protect the non-compliant timber material where it cannot be removed. Also, after thought recessed shelf to be waterproofed to minimum 40mm either side of sheet junctions and full coverage to horizontal surfaces.
Page 13: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Non-Compliant Materials

Incompatible screed wire penetrates membrane

Incompatible pre-mixed tile adhesive has re-emulsified

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Photo Left:Wire re-enforcing in mortar screed has penetrated membrane, leaving rust spots. This occurs through differential movement between the screed and substrate. Re-enforcing is only applicable in un-bonded screeds where the minimum screed thickness is 40mm. Un-bonded screeds would only occur in situations where bonding compatibility is not possible due to membrane material make-up. This is common for polyester fibre glass, solvent based polyurethane and PVC sheet membranes. These types of membranes are more abrasive resistant than water based liquid applied membranes, but may still be susceptible to puncture by reo wire. Solution is to form a bonded screed without wire, or bonded screed with membrane formed on top of mortar bed. Photo Right:Tiler has used non-water resistant pre-mixed mastic tile adhesive. Tile adhesive has re-emulsified resulting in a water table forming behind the wall tiles and tracking to the door, damaging the timber door framing and exiting the ( Medium Risk ) ensuite. The white staining to the shower screen is oxidisation of the aluminium shower screen, indicating the tide line behind the tiles. A special effort ! Solution is to use the appropriate water-resistant tile adhesive with 90% contact coverage, as determined by AS 3958.1-2007 Guide to the Installation of Ceramic Tiles.
Page 14: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Extent of Application

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Table C1 had not been included in AS 3740-2010, as it was, in the 2004 edition. The table had been produced in subsequent editions of BCA Vols 1 and 2, however this restricted easy access by waterproofing and tiling contractors. The table was re-published in AS 3740 Amendment 1-2012, and now forms part of the 2010 Standard. The Table C1 is reproduced in current BCA ( NCC ) editions. Table C1 is the key to establish areas requiring treatment and compliance as either waterproof or water resistant. The Table describes the following as wet areas requiring waterproof and water resistant protection under the Standard: Shower Areas adjacent to baths and spas ( Bathrooms ) Laundries & W/C’s Table C1 specifies the wet area, and identifies the component areas of: floors & horizontal surfaces; walls; wall junctions & joints; wall/ floor junctions; and penetrations. Each component area is assigned levels of protection as either waterproof or water resistant, and the extent of that protection. Eg: Shower Area: Floors & horizontal surfaces – waterproof Walls - waterproof to 150mm above FFL and water resistant to minimum of 1800mm above FFL. Wall junctions and joints - waterproof Wall/floor junctions - waterproof Penetrations - waterproof
Page 15: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Extent of Application

Page 16: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Extent of Application

Page 17: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Extent of Application

Page 18: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Extent of Application

Critical Reference Points

Reference points for extent of application − Finished Floor Level (FFL)

Height

− Shower Rose Connection Lateral & Height

− Shower Screen Designates high risk area

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Extent of Application requirements are minimum mandatory prescriptions. These are the minimum bench marks where successful compliance with AS 3740-2010 are assessed. Best trade practices can be adopted over and above the minimum bench marks. Manufacturer’s recommendations and guidance should be sought to ensure material compatibilities and design functionality. FFL:Shower wall height extent of application, tanking to skirting, barrier stop heights are all measured from FFL. Where the minimum height for water resistance for showers is 1800mm fro FFL, this will be 1850mm from substrate where 50mm of screed and tile are to top the floor. Shower rose connection: Determines the ultimate vertical measurement of protection from FFL. If the rose connection is set at 1900mm from FFL, limiting waterproofing and tiling to 1800mm would not comply, as the rose connection is part of the ( High Risk ) shower area. The shower rose connection also determines the horizontal extent of protection, in the case of open unenclosed showers. Shower Screen: Is part of the shower and not outside the risk area. High Risk protection must extend to, and include the screen, and not up to it. Waterstop/ Waterbar angles retain water within the designated wet area, by stopping waterflow through porous flooring medium below surface level. Waterstop angles must be finished flush with the Finished Floor Level (FFL), and form a connection to the waterproofing perimeter flashing of the designated wet area. Waterstop angles are to be installed at all: bathroom, laundry & toilet doorways; shower perimeters; and island bath periphery barriers. Barrier stop heights and position should be confirmed prior to screed and tiling. Installation of a higher PVC angle, waterproofing and cutting the angle back may result in damage to the membrane and subsequent blistering and delamination. Overgrouting or tiling over the angle will render the barrier ineffective. Tiles, adhesives and grouting are porous and will not restrict moisture movement over the top of the barrier angle. Angles must be connected to waterproofing details at abutting walls, and be installed to allow for thermal movement in the angle material. Aluminium will expand and contract 1mm over 1m. Therefore angles should be 2 to 3mm clear of abutting surfaces, however they must be connected with an appropriate Type 1 or 2 Connector sealant.
Page 19: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Class Exercise 1

Extent of Application

Does this comply with extent of application?

____________________________________________________________

Why / Why not ? ____________________________________________________________

What materials should be used in the designated risk area?

__________________________________________________________________________________________

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Class Exercise 1 : According to Table C1 and Materials Section 2.4, all substrate and lining materials in a wet area are required to be waterproof or water resistant in combination. Non-compliant materials must not be used as non-water resistant materials will deteriorate when contacted with moisture and compromise the integrity of the wet area. The photo above depicts a rain head connected to the ceiling. Regardless of the drop of the fitting, the Standard requires waterproof and water resistant materials from the shower rose connection at the substrate. Table C1 requires water resistant wall materials and waterproof junctions and penetrations to a minimum of 1800mm from FFL, however the rose connection is a critical reference point and designates the measurement from FFL that materials must be extended to. The wall/ ceiling junction at the substrate, therefore, is part of the wet area and requires waterproof junction sealant in accordance with Table C1. Paint, plaster setting and topping compounds are not recognised as waterproof or water resistant materials under Section 2.4 and are therefore not compliant in the above scenario. Waterproof junctions, penetrations and water resistant wall linings, such as welded vinyl, tiles or acrylic wall linings are required to extend to the wall/ ceiling junction.
Page 20: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Extent of Application

Fixed Panel > 900 Fixed Panel < 900

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Type 1 Unenclosed:900mm fixed panel serves as a barrier to restrict protection to the screen barrier. Waterstop angle to be installed into the floor, beneath the screen and finish 5mm above FFL. The screen channel is sealed over the angle. Where a glass panel, without sill channel is installed, the angle should finish flush with FFL and a Type 1 sealant connection provided between the base of the glass panel and the top of the waterstop angle. Waterproofing protection is otherwise terminated at the extent of the screen as a critical reference point. Type 2 Unenclosed:Less than 900mm fixed panel requires protection to 1500mm from rose connection. Where a waterstop angle is installed into floor finishes, it shall finish flush with FFL for Type 2 unenclosed showers. The waterstop should be installed 1500mm from the rose connection. Where this is not practical, the bathroom door waterstop is treated as the shower barrier, the full floor waterproofed, as if for the shower floor, including perimeter flashing to 150mm above the substrate. All falls must drain to a waste. Above bonded screed membrane application is recommended to avoid mortar bed saturation and coagulation with organic matter and bacterial growth.
Page 21: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Membrane Application Extent of Waterproofing Appendix C

Type 1 & Type 2 Unenclosed Shower

Table C1 Floor waterproofed and dressed to barrier stop Floor /Wall junction waterproofed to 150mm above FFL Penetrations waterproofed Sheet junctions waterproofed to 40mm each side of junction Wall substrate water resistant to 1800mm min. from FFL Type 1 – treatment to spray barrier Type 2 – treatment to 1500mm min from rose connection

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Photo: Type 1 unenclosed shower to left side with spray barrier. Type 2 at walk through with waterproofing protection to 1500mm from rose connection. All falls are to shower waste, although angle has been installed at shower entrance where shower falls increased to 1:80 as a functional additional barrier. Type 1 Unenclosed:900mm fixed panel serves as a barrier to restrict protection to the screen barrier. Waterstop angle to be installed into the floor, beneath the screen and finish 5mm above FFL. The screen channel is sealed over the angle. Where a glass panel, without sill channel is installed, the angle should finish flush with FFL and a Type 1 sealant connection provided between the base of the glass panel and the top of the waterstop angle. Waterproofing protection is otherwise terminated at the extent of the screen as a critical reference point. Type 2 Unenclosed:Less than 900mm fixed panel requires protection to 1500mm from rose connection. Where a waterstop angle is installed into floor finishes, it shall finish flush with FFL for Type 2 unenclosed showers. The waterstop should be installed 1500mm from the rose connection. Where this is not practical, the bathroom door waterstop is treated as the shower barrier, the full floor waterproofed, as if for the shower floor, including perimeter flashing to 150mm above the substrate. All falls must drain to a waste. Above bonded screed membrane application is recommended to avoid mortar bed saturation and coagulation with organic matter and bacterial growth. Once wet areas have been identified, they should be designated into risk categories. Shower areas are high usage and high risk and require classification into types. Clarification as to screen position and type may be required at membrane inspection. This may not be evident at this stage of construction, but may assist in determining the shower type. This can be confirmed by viewing plans or questioning the site supervisor. Main bathroom areas out side the designated shower area, are medium use and medium risk areas. Toilets and laundries are low risk areas. Once areas are designated, critical reference points are identified, thereby determining minimum measurements for protection compliance. Table C1 provides guidance as to waterproof and water resistant areas. It is not a requirement under Table C1 to fully waterproof walls in the shower on F/C sheeting. This is only required on water resistant plaster board, by the board manufacturers; and full coverage onto porous render substrate. The table calls for water resistant walls, which wet area F/C sheeting is classified as. This method is preferable where large format wall tiles are bonded to the sheet material rather than hanging on the membrane.
Page 22: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Open Unenclosed Showers

Open, Unenclosed Shower Type 1 & 2 Combined

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Photo Left:Type 1 prescribes waterproofing protection to screen. However nib wall has been waterproofed, window reveals and Medium Risk areas to remainder of bathroom. Shower entry is Type 2, with no spray barrier, waterproofed to 1500mm from rose connection. Photo Right:Toilet falls to nib wall 10mm, all falls to shower entry from bathroom doorway. Change of fall at 1:80 denotes barrier stop angle. Notes:High Risk shower area has higher level of saturation, where moisture will migrate out of the shower area through capillary action.Medium Risk areas, outside the shower, can be controlled through regular maintenance. The Standard requires a barrier stop angle at 1500mm from the rose connection , or grading and waterproofing to one floor waste. This is not always possible, due to room set out. This has been achieved by grading the main floor at by 1:100 and breaking the fall at the shower at 1:80. This bathroom has been inspected after use, and it works.
Page 23: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Shower Waterstop

Hobless enclosed angle 5mm above FFL Open unenclosed angle flush and visible at FFL

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Waterstop/ Waterbar angles retain water within the designated wet area, by stopping waterflow through porous flooring medium below surface level. Waterstop angles must be finished flush with the Finished Floor Level (FFL), and form a connection to the waterproofing perimeter flashing of the designated wet area. Waterstop angles are to be installed at all: bathroom, laundry & toilet doorways; shower perimeters; and island bath periphery barriers. Barrier stop heights and position should be confirmed prior to screed and tiling. Installation of a higher PVC angle, waterproofing and cutting the angle back may result in damage to the membrane and subsequent blistering and delamination. Overgrouting or tiling over the angle will render the barrier ineffective. Tiles, adhesives and grouting are porous and will not restrict moisture movement over the top of the barrier angle. Angles must be connected to waterproofing details at abutting walls, and be installed to allow for thermal movement in the angle material. Aluminium will expand and contract 1mm over 1m. Therefore angles should be 2mm clear of abutting surfaces, and connected with an appropriate Type 1 or 2 Connector sealant.
Page 24: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Raised and Set Down

Raised angle hob 15mm above shower FFL Recessed showers 15mm minimum step down

Presenter
Presentation Notes
A raised angle hob is common where shower floor needs to be built up and screeded for falls to waste and remaining bathroom floor is direct fixed to substrate. Barrier stop angle must be connected to wall substrate and finish 15mm above FFL inside of shower. Aluminium angle will move 1mm over 1m, with thermal expansion and contraction. Angle should, therefore be set 2mm from the wall with Type 2 Connector Sealant. Medium risk bathroom area perimeter flashing membrane should be dressed to the base of the shower angle with a Type 2 Connector Sealant. This will ensure continuity of bathroom perimeter flashing and restrict water movement from the bathroom beneath the shower. Rising damp beneath the shower membrane may result in membrane bond failure and blistering.
Page 25: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Take a Break

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Chris testing his waterproofing application from Tasmania 4 day qualification course. Take a Break !!
Page 26: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Junctions and Flashings

All junctions to be sealed Type 1,2,3,4 & 5 Type 1 W/proof to W/proof Type 2 W/proof to W/Resistant Type 3 W/Resistant to W/Resistant Type 4 Non W/Resistant to W/Resistant Type 5 Full flashing 50mm horizontal leg, 25mm above FFL

1

2

4

5

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Where a Type 5 waterproofing flashing cannot be installed, a connector sealant shall be used. A paintable and compatible sealant should be used to connect the membrane to fixtures and fittings where the upturn of the membrane should not be visible for aesthetic reasons. This avoids the unsightly finish of exposed membranes above floor finishes or onto exposed fixtures. Connector sealants are paintable and compatible with the membrane system used. Typical connector sealants are paintable fast cure (FC) polyurethane, paintable modified silicones (MS) and other compatible membrane materials. MS sealants can be used at wall/ ceiling junctions where the shower rain head connection is at the ceiling, thereby making this junction a waterproof requirement according to Table C1. MS sealants are also used at the tile/ ceiling junction for full height tiling allowing the sealant to be dressed to when painting the ceiling. Type 2 Connector Sealant is most common where applicators connect to fixtures such as: shower bases, spas and baths, barrier stop angles , and drainage flange connections. Junction flashing classifications, where connector sealants are used as above, are as follows: Type 1:Waterproof to Waterproof materialsGlass to pre-formed panelling. Type 2:Waterproof to Water Resistant materialsConcrete to shower tray. Type 3:Water Resistant to Water Resistant materialsNo example shown, but may be concrete to f/c sheeting. Type 4:Non-Water Resistant to Water Resistant materialsConcrete to 2 Pack black skirting. Type 5:Full flashing 50mm to floor and 25mm above FFL.
Page 27: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Junctions and Flashings

Perimeter flashing min 25mm above FFL

Dressed to door angle across cavity slider

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Photo Left:Non-compliant timber substrate has been removed and replaced with wet area f/c sheeting. Membrane perimeter flashing dressed to FFL at door angle. The minimum requirements for perimeter flashing to bathroom, toilet and laundry floors on water resistant substrate are to be 25mm above FFL and 50mm horizontal leg. Full floor waterproofing is required over timber substrate or when 6mm f/c sheeting is installed over timber substrate. Timber door frame had been taped, Type 4 Connector Sealant and waterproofed. Door angle can be fitted after membrane application, but must be sealed to the perimeter flashing and connected to door frame with a Type 1 Connector Sealant. Photo Right:Door angle formed to bridge across door cavity. This forms a continuous, tanked perimeter flashing. “ Water must be prevented from penetrating behind fittings and linings or into concealed spaces…” Bending the angle rather than cutting and mitring will reduce the risk of penetration at the joint.
Page 28: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Bond Breakers

Bond Breakers are required at all wall/wall and floor/wall junctions and where movement may occur.

Types of Bond Breakers Class 1 Membrane 0 to 60% Type 1 Bond Breaker 75mm

Class 2 Membrane 60 to 300% Type 2 Bond Breaker 35mm

Class 3 Membrane < 300% Type 3 Bond Breaker 12mm

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Bond breakers are required under AS 3740 and are to match the flexibility class of the membrane. Bond breakers are a material that allows the membrane to release, when movement occurs, and stretch according to the elongation capability of the membrane. Typical bond breaker materials are: neutral cure silicone sealant, non-paintable polyurethane sealants, vinyl bond breaker tape, silicone coated bond breaker tape, impermeable bond breaker bandage matching the flexibility of the membrane material. Paintable sealants, such as Fast Cure (FC) polyurethane and paintable silicones (MS) are not classified as bond breaker materials as membrane materials adhere to them and will not release as intended by AS 3740. These are classified as fillet materials and therefore not compliant with the bond breaker prescriptions under the Standard. Permeable bandage may also not act as a bond breaker material as it is wet through with membrane material and adhered to the substrate. Bond breakers are required at all junctions where movement may occur. Wall/Wall. Wall/Floor, Hob/Wall. Connector sealants are normally paintable and compatible with the membrane material. Bond breakers are non-paintable. The general rule is Paintable Connectors first, then non-paintable. Getting this system the wrong way around can result in failure, where the Connector Sealant releases from bond breaker contaminated substrate. Type 2 Connector Sealants applied first to puddle flange, baths, tray junctions, vanity junctions, tap combinations and barrier stop angles.
Page 29: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Penetrations Where a penetration passes through a waterproof or water resistant construction, the penetration shall be waterproof.

Penetrations include: - Substrate fixings - Taps, rose and mixers - Screens and fixtures

- Toilets, shelves and fittings.

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Photo : Waste collar rubber has been deformed resulting in backflow and POO !Waterproofing connection to the toilet waste pipe has restricted the toilet leak from exiting the bathroom to the ceiling below. Solution : Make the apprentice clean up the residue, replace the pan collar and refit the toilet. Any mechanical fixing or service penetration through waterproofed and water resistant designated zones must be sealed, as per Table C1. Communication needs to occur with screen fitters, plumbers and fit off trades, in order to ensure that all penetrations are sealed with a compatible sealant, as specified by the waterproofing applicator.
Page 30: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Penetrations

Taps sealed to allow servicing

Mixer un-sealed Or a man hole ?

Presenter
Presentation Notes
The Standard requires that tap penetrations are sealed to allow for servicing by owners, without disturbing the seal. Plumbers need to be educated to set plumbing combinations 2mm forward of the wall lining, in order to seal from substrate to combination body and not tap spindle. Waterproofing applicators should not contaminate tap spindles with membrane material. Removal of tap spindles can grip and rip the membrane, forming blisters and failure. Full wall waterproofing should be dressed to Type 2 Connector Sealant, and not metal tap bodies. Tile hole should not be sealed, as the penetration is sealed at substrate level. Sealing of tap penetrations falls under this Standard, and is therefore the Waterproofer’s responsibility. Builders should ensure that suitable pipe block-offs are installed to allow for sealing of the penetrations at this stage. Sealing of the holes after tiling is too late, as it does not guarantee a sealed connection between the substrate and combination. This practice also compromises the service provision of the Standard, where the sealant will be disturbed at this level in order to remove the tap spindle. Should sealing of these penetrations not be possible at waterproofing stage, the waterproofer should document this on the application certificate, so that the builder can perform the task under his/her supervisory chain.
Page 31: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Penetrations

Waterproof internal housing for mixer − Allows for servicing and

waterproofs at connections

− Also applies for ceiling flush mount rain heads

− AS 3740 requires waterproofing at rose connection

Page 32: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Penetrations

Screen fixings sealed Island bath waste sealed

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Photo Left : Shower screen fixings are penetrations requiring sealing. Neutral cure silicone should be used to isolate screws from exposed aluminium. This will prevent electrolysis between reactive metals. Photo Right : Island bath waste penetration has been fitted with a pvc flange fitting. Membrane is dressed to the flange, allowing independent movement of the waste pipe.
Page 33: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Class Exercise 2

Direct fix tiles over heating and membrane ?

Under tile heating How would you waterproof this floor?

Stage 1 Seal sheet joints Stage 2 Install heating Stage 3 Isolation screed Stage 4 Bond breakers Stage 5 Install Membrane

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Class Exercise 2 :installation of under flooring systems can adversely affect the integrity of the waterproofing system. Exposure of the wire directly onto the membrane will expose the membrane to direct heat which may soften and form blisters or open up pinholes. Contact adhesive is often used to adhere the wires in place prior to locking in with the isolation screed. Installers are not waterproofers, and have no training in membrane fault identification. Tim, in the slide, has a stone in his right boot, which will tear and damage the membrane. Installation of the membrane before the hot wire should incorporate an initial isolation screed over the membrane, prior to any other trades working on it. This protects the membrane from abrasive damage, direct heat exposure and incompatible materials. In the slide, the hot wire has been installed first, isolated with a top screed and then the membrane installed with bond breakers and compliance with AS 3740.
Page 34: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Baths and Spas

Hob mount baths For insert baths a waterstop shall be installed around the periphery Membrane to finish 5mm above finished tile level Barrier angle is not always possible Min. 100mm for shelf

Presenter
Presentation Notes
A periphery barrier must be installed at all hob mount baths and spas. This shall be at substrate level to stop water movement under the tiles from entering the bath cavity. The Standard only provides one descriptive method to achieve this periphery barrier, as a waterstop angle beneath the bath lip. Installation of an angle beneath the bath lip is not always possible, where the bath has already been fitted, prior to waterproofing. A periphery barrier can be installed using a Type 2 Connector Sealant. The method for providing the periphery barrier should be documented on the waterproofing certificate. Bath shelf to be 100mm minimum, to finished levels. External sheeted shelf should be 90mm + 10mm tiling. Internal shelf should be 110mm less 10mm wall tiling.
Page 35: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Baths and Spas

Membrane dressed to 10mm backing rod as periphery barrier.

Periphery barrier 5mm above shelf tiles. Shelf 100mm to finish.

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Photo Left:Use of 10mm open cell foam backing rod as periphery barrier, under spa lip. Membrane connected to backing rod with polyurethane Type 3 Connector sealant. Photo Right:Periphery barrier, beneath bath to finish 5mm above surrounding tile level. Bath has been fitted to top of tile level with a neutral cure wet area silicone.
Page 36: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Baths and Spas

Membrane dressed to barrier stop under bath lip. Where no vertical membrane termination, full waterproofing under the bath and space to be ventilated.

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Photo:F/C sheeting fixed to inside bath frame and waterproofed as periphery barrier. Full waterproofing can be applied under bath cavity, where a periphery barrier cannot be achieved. The bath space is to be ventilated, however a graded waste should also be provided. Typically this is achieved by full bathroom shell waterproofing and forming the bath frame and steps with adhesive fixed AAC ( Hebel ) blocks.
Page 37: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Baths and Spas

No Barrier Stop Membrane dressed to Type 2 Connector Sealant

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Photo Left:Periphery unsealed, allowing water to enter the bath cavity from beneath the tiling. Silicone sealing to the top of tiling is not sufficient and does not satisfy the Standard. Photo Right:Type 2 Connector Sealant, forming periphery barrier. Goose neck spout penetration sealed at substrate level. Surrounding tiles are finished with a neutral cure silicone sealant.
Page 38: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Baths and Spas

Free standing bath > 75mm from wall

Waterproof from floor, to extent of and 150mm above bath

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Where an island bath is within 75mm of surrounding walls, waterproofing shall be applied to 150mm above the bath for the extent of the bath. This is from floor level. The widow reveal has also been waterproofed as an additional measure. Where the island bath is greater than 75mm from walls, standard perimeter flashing would apply. This also applies to other vessels. Free standing basins require waterproofing from floor to the extent of the basin and 150mm above. The same applies to vanities fitted to the surface of the wall tiling, where there is no vessel / substrate junction sealant connection.
Page 39: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Membrane Application Vessels abutting a wall

Fig C4 & Table C1 Vessel at wall junction – sealed prior to tiling

Waterproof wall junction where a vessel is fixed to a wall Water resistant to 150mm above vessel Where vessel is within 75mm of a wall, water resistant to 150mm above vessel , for the extent of the vessel − Applies to wall mount

vanities, fitted to wall linings

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Table C1 requires that the wall junction at the vessel be waterproofed and water resistant to 150mm above the vessel. This needs to occur at the substrate and can either be a sealant applied to the membrane surface or as a Type 2 connector sealant to the substrate material. This applies to all vessels : vanities, basins and wash tubs. Free standing basins require waterproofing from floor to the extent of the basin and 150mm above. The same applies to vanities fitted to the surface of the wall tiling, where there is no vessel / substrate junction sealant connection.
Page 40: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Falls in floor finishes

Falls to floor waste “Falls in floor finishes shall allow all surface water to drain without

ponding, except for residual water remaining due to surface tension.

Lipping between tiles within tolerances of AS 3958.1-2007 Mandatory Minimum Falls Enclosed shower and main

floor areas 1:100 Unenclosed showers 1 : 80

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Falls should be functional and not result in water ponding in the shower or exiting the shower under normal use. This should be facilitated with a break in falls at the shower entry. Larger tiles provide a high adhesion to beading water through surface tension. Water tends to push outside of the shower, where no break exists at the entry. Soap contamination on the tiles will increase the effect of surface tension. Falls to wet area floors are to be as follows: (3.4 ) 1:100 for main floors and enclosed showers 1: 80 for open-unenclosed showers to 1500mm from the rose connection Falls to waste, no ponding, surface water is not to exit the shower under normal use Disabled access turn areas, dimensions and grab rail positions should be checked against AS 1428.1 – 2009. Design for Disabled Access. AS 3740 – 2010 reference AS 3958.1 – 2007 Guide to the Installation of Ceramic Tiles, regarding tile finishes, grout joints and lippage. The minimum acceptable tile joint size for dust pressed floor tiles is 3mm, NOT 1.5 mm! Smaller grout joints do not accommodate independent cyclic movement between tiles. In some instances tiles are touching adjoining tiles at the base of the joint. Where tiles are abutting, stresses are transferred and compounded across the area of tiling. Grouting should fill the joint and be within 1mm of the tile edge for rectified edge tiles, and 2mm from the edge on cushioned edge tiles. Grouting should be of a smooth finish and not pitted. Lippage (lipping) – Where one edge of the tile is higher than an adjacent tile. Lippage can appear more severe with rectified edge tiles and smaller joint sizes. Cushioned edge tiles and larger joints tend to ramp the grout and soften the difference between lipped tiles. Lippage may constitute a trip hazard in extreme cases becoming a functional defect. Mortar droppings in the waste can result in blockage. Water should be run in all shower recesses and assessed for clear flow.
Page 41: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Floor Wastes

Membrane shall be dressed to a drainage control flange, not into a waste pipe. Drainage flange to be recessed into substrate. Water shall drain at the membrane level

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Puddle drainage flanges are mandatory, in all circumstances, according to AS 3740-2010. Dressing into waste pipes can result in membrane rupture at the sharp pipe edge. The internal diameter of the pipe is also reduced. Drainage control flanges are also mandatory where a grated channel is installed where it does not have an integral 50mm fin to dress the membrane to. The drainage flange must be set at the lowest level. Where the flange sits on the substrate, and then waterproofed to, with a Connector Sealant, the drainage will be affected. Water will pond around the flange by approx 3mm. The surest solution is to waterproof to the top of the screed, where the drainage flange will always be at the lowest level. The screed is dished out at the flange, membrane dressed down over a Type 2 Connector Sealant and the dish filled with porous drainage cell mortar when tiling.
Page 42: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Floor Wastes

Drainage channel − Membrane to be

continuous into drainage outlet

− When against a wall the channel must not compromise waterproofing to wall / floor junction

− Where a 50mm horizontal flange is not present, the membrane must be dressed to the drainage flange.

Presenter
Presentation Notes
As per drainage flanges, the water must drain to the lowest point. Sealing up against the channel wall will result in water damming against the channel, and not draining to the waste. Most channel droppers are not meant to have a solid connection into the waste pipe. Where a 50mm horizontal flange has not been incorporated as part of the channel, the membrane must be dressed to a drainage flange, beneath the channel and the grate fitted independent of the waterproofing system. A drainage flange connection is mandatory under this condition and the channel fitted as a loose connection into the waste pipe. If a 50mm horizontal flange forms part of the channel, then the channel itself is considered as the drainage flange. This must be set at the lowest point to ensure drainage at membrane level, and the drop into the waste pipe must be a sealed connection, compliant with the Plumbing regulations for joining to dissimilar materials. An “O” ring seal, screw connection with gasket seal, or flexible coupler with hose clamp seals would be acceptable. You must not attempt to use a joint sealant connection where this will only be a temporary seal.
Page 43: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Drainage Channels

Membrane dressed to puddle flange at lowest point Channel grate set in with tiling

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Photo Left:Membrane dressed to puddle flange at lowest point. Type 2 connector sealant at the puddle flange. Top of screed membrane application. Photo Left:Channel set in with tiling, with the waste cavity filled with porous mortar compound. This provides sub-tile drainage to the waste pipe.
Page 44: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Drainage Channels

Channel as drip tray and barrier stop

Channel to wall with barrier angle to FFL

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Photo Left:Channel at front acts as drip tray. Waterproof to barrier stop angle at outside edge of shower. Channel set inside of angle. Stops foot push water and blow water. Photo Right:All falls to grated channel, 10mm off back wall, to allow for removal of grate. Membrane dressed to barrier stop angle, flush with floor tiles. Barrier angle must be at FFL for walk through showers. The angle was taped and protected from waterproofing application where exposed. Membranes should never be applied over the top of barrier angles as abrasion to the top of the angle may tear the membrane resulting in moisture behind the membrane causing bond failure.
Page 45: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Defect – Signs & Symptoms

Swollen Plastered External Corner Rusted External Corner Angle

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Photo Left: Swollen skirting tile joint indicates moisture swelling timber framing. Photo Right : The removed skirting tile exposes an absence of waterproofing membrane detail to the external corner. The joint has been set, topped and painted. Rust staining from the external corner angle indicates water ingress and damage to building elements. Membrane application is subject to debonding from plaster set joints where unstable setting and topping compounds are used. Flood effected houses will present with this mode of failure where hydrostatic pressure from water behind the membrane, will cause blistering and bond failure.
Page 46: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Substrate Baths and Spas 3.8

Island Bath - Unsupported

Baths and spas shall be supported to prevent distortion and cracking. When recessed into the wall: water resistant surface materials to pass down inside the rim of bath When installing baths the integrity of the structure shall be maintained

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Photo : This bathroom had been renovated with a free standing island bath mounted over the doctored sub-floor framing. The 100 x 50mm hardwood joists have been removed and replaced by two discontinuous sections of 90 x 35mm pine with a third piece nailed up into surrounding joists. NOT SUPPORTED !! And compromised the integrity of the structure. The Standard requires baths and trays to be supported and installed in accordance with manufacturer specifications. Wall sheeting should project into the receptacle with 2mm clearance at the base. This will facilitate a positive Type 2 Connector sealant beneath the sheet, rather that at the sheet edge only. So called self supporting trays are not intended to bridge an open cavity. They will still deflect under load, and result in cracking of the tray or separation at the wall junction and leakage. Self supporting trays must be installed onto a sound continuous base. A substrate inspection should include applying load to the base of the bath and around the edges of island mounted baths and spas. Any deflection or lack of support should be rectified prior to continuing with membrane installation.
Page 47: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Waterproofing Certificates

Waterproofing Application Certificates

Certificate to be issued upon request from surveyor To certify compliance with BCA and AS 3740-2010 To include: − Extent of application − Product used with classifications − Material info such as curing,

compatible adhesives etc.. − Declaration of compliance with

AS 3740 - 2010 To be issued by competent person with either trade licence or formal trade qualification

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Application certificate should have enough information to establish that detailing is compliant with AS 3740 and AS 4654.2 Manufacturer’s technical data to be attached to certificate. This will contain information such as: membrane class, approval number, compatible materials, application instructions, curing times etc. A signature as a Stat. Declaration is not sufficient. Manufacturer’s data sheets should be accompanied by material safety data sheets ( MSDS ). MSDS details safe handling of the materials, material properties and first aid information regarding contact with the product. A compatibility chain of all materials used should accompany the certificate, as a specification from the manufacturers. A compatibility chain of all materials used should accompany the membrane technical data sheets. This can be compiled by the builder where other trades or fittings are involved. This can also be provided as a site specification where a single manufacturer supplies a complete compatibility chain of materials. For example: Negative pressure membrane – primer – connector sealant – bond breaker – membrane material – bonding agent – tile adhesive – grouts – sanitary sealants – topical sealers – penetration sealants. Certificates should contain specific application details, where items have been identified as requiring installation information, such as : Method of membrane application to top of bed, or below bed. Where membrane is connected by Type 2 connector sealant to fixtures, such as, shower bases, window casements or Type 4 connector sealants to door mouldings or kickboards. Method of providing periphery barrier to hob mount baths. Installation of barrier stop angles. Nomination of penetrations that have been sealed by the waterproofer. Extent of application for island baths and free standing vanities etc. Certificates should include information to the builder and follow on trades, such as : Where penetrations are to be sealed at fit off : taps and rose penetrations obstructed by plumber block-offs; toilet pans; shower screens; shelves and rails. Information as to compatibility with other products. This includes tile adhesives and where membranes have been applied prior to welded vinyl and sheet flooring, where isolation screeds may need to be layed to separate the membrane from solvent based membranes. Any application details that are outside of the control of the waterproofing applicator, and are to be followed through by the builder as part of his/ her supervision and BCA compliance requirements. Certificates should be issued by a competent person. Local authorities should ensure that the person issuing the certificate has actually installed the waterproofing system and is formally qualified /licenced to carry out the scope. Applicators should either be a current qualified construction waterproofer or wall and floor tiler, where their qualification contains competencies to install waterproofing membranes. Older tiling qualifications may not hold this competency. Suitably licenced builders are able to install and certify waterproofing under the scope of their qualifications, but may opt to engage a formally qualified applicator. Plumbers do not hold qualification competencies under their qualification package.
Page 48: (AS 3740 2010) compliance and practical application

Final Thought

Shower recesses are subjected to: − moisture attack daily − chemical attack weekly − substrate movement seasonally − unforeseen attacks anytime − (extreme weather events, children etc)

Presenter
Presentation Notes
Shower bases, being high use wet areas, are at constant states of saturation. This applies continual stresses to membrane systems where sub-surface drainage and excessive cavities harbouring free standing water occur. Material chemical reactions occur continually in a wet area. Calcification and soap reacting with copper and other contaminants in the water are a ongoing. The use of chemical cleaners such as bleaches, acids, soaps and degreasing agents add to the cocktail. Current compliant membranes are tested for chemical resistance, however overuse of cleaning products may affect the overall system over time. Timber members will expand and contract as ambient moisture levels change seasonally. High rain events and dry periods will affect substrate movement, which will transfer to the waterproofing system. Bond breaker application and selection of applicable membranes with class 2 and 3 flexibility will resist these influences. Flooding events will result in hydrostatic pressure behind membranes and expose the entire system to stresses outside of expected normal use. My niece Tayla, likes to block the shower floor waste and make a swimming pool !