The parking spaces at shopping centres go through much wear and tear daily. It is therefore of great importance that the structures of these parking spaces are made to ‘weather the storm’. In Sandton, Gauteng, the Lonehill Shopping Centre parking deck required weatherproofing; and was in need of a floor coating designed for challenging high traffic environments. In August 2019 the contractor, Multi Contracts Specialists (MCS), together with the specifier, Imbue Sustainability, were given the responsibility of this task. They believed that to provide longevity and quality, the Sika range were undoubtedly the products of choice. Along with their products that allow you to do more with less, Sika also promise reliable service and technical support.
A wide range of Sika products were used for this task. Sikafloor -161 is an epoxy used for priming the concrete and cement screed surface – and was applied prior to the application of epoxy mortar screeds, epoxy self-levelling floor toppings and epoxy overlays. Sikadur- 43ZA, a three component repair and filling mortar, was used for isolated repairs and constructing of chamfers / ramps where level differences were created due to the removal of the Asphalt from the existing parking deck. Sikadur-31DW was then used as a general repair product to fill blow holes), as well as crack and surface sealing. Sikadur-31DW was also used in conjunction with Sikadur-Combiflex, which is a joint sealing system. Sikasil-728 NS, a silicone sealant product ideal for this sort of project, was used to seal joints on areas of high movement. The final weatherproofing of the deck was completed with a highly durable, abrasive-resistant, liquid-applied polyurea, called Sikalastic-8800. This product is spray applied, tack free within seconds and can be trafficked within 12 hours. It is therefore a perfect exterior coating in regions with regular Summer thunderstorms.
The execution of the project proved more complicated than expected and client-contractor-supplier communication was critical to stay on track. For one, the substrate was much weaker than anticipated, which resulted in cost escalation and extension of program. Furthermore, the project was carried out over the rainy season – not ideal – which limited available time to complete the work. Also, as the centre had to stay open for business, extra safety precautions had to be taken. This posed a challenge, requiring a different approach to the project whilst maintaining access for the public and keeping the Tenants and Centre Management happy.
The project from consultancy, testing, tender phase to completion, was successfully done in six months, with the actual work being completed in two and a half months due to the builders break, unforeseen rain, total removal of the Asphalt on the existing surface and tenants requiring access for deliveries to take place. The project was completed in January 2020. Jaun Roe van Wyk, the Technical Sales Representative from Sika who managed this project, stated that Imbue Sustainability commended Sika SA and MCS on the efficiency and professionalism in which the project was handled. He added that both companies would be recommended for future projects.
For more information visit: https://zaf.sika.com/
