DATE OF PROJECT 2025
LOCATION AUCKLAND
Overview
This residential project involved waterproofing a multi-storey apartment building comprising 51 units, located between Remuera and Ellerslie in Auckland. The scope included installing Preprufe 300R membrane on underslabs up to perimeter ground beams, then post-applying Bituthene 3000 membrane from ground beams up and over precast panel bottom junctions. The walls will be completed with Bituthene 3000.
What initially appeared to be a straightforward installation on a flat site turned into a technically demanding project to accommodate the site’s hills and valleys within a tight eight-week winter base slab programme.
Our Involvement
Sansom was engaged by the architects during the design phase, providing technical consultation before successfully tendering for the project. Our team of six specialised waterproofing applicators brought expertise across multiple membrane systems, which allowed us to adapt easily to the unexpected site conditions.
The project required detailed attention to substrate preparation, with each installation area requiring a comprehensive checklist of tasks, including water removal, surface grinding, and void filling before membrane application. This systematic approach ensured our quality standards were maintained despite the programme pressure.
Challenges and Solutions
The project presented three primary challenges. First, commencing in June meant contending with Auckland’s winter weather, frequent rainfall, and shortened daylight hours, which significantly impacted productivity windows. Second, the unexpected site topography required us to adapt our approach to the installation. Third, the Preprufe system’s stringent substrate requirements meant additional time was needed for pumping water and surface preparation to achieve optimal conditions for membrane application.
Through excellent coordination with the main contractor and collaborative weekly planning sessions with the other on-site teams, we were able to develop innovative solutions to maintain progress. Additionally, our crew’s discipline in ensuring proper substrate conditions before installation, even under schedule pressure, demonstrated our commitment to quality over speed.
Outcome
The project was successfully completed despite winter conditions and site complexity, with our team receiving recognition for their high-quality workmanship from the main contractor.
This project demonstrates our capability to deliver exceptional results regardless of project complexity, be it weather conditions or the need to accommodate challenging terrain. It shows how technical expertise and effective coordination can transform challenges into successful outcomes.
