Lotte Department Store, Seoul
INSTALLER: Lotte Engineering & Construction Co., Ltd
CHALLENGES:
- Porcelain tile installation over a busy train station (8,000 m2 /86,114 ft2)
- PANDOMO® Wall installation in the food court (1,600 m2/17,223 ft2)
- Cellulose Fiber Cement (CRC) board substrate
- Expedited installation time frame
PROBLEMS:
Built over a busy train station, the eight-story Lotte Department Store in Seoul, Korea would challenge most tile installations and wall renderings. A tile adhesive was needed to absorb the trains vibrations and have a longer working time because of high temperature in Seoul, Korea. ARDEX was asked to test their tile adhesives for the project. After the tests proved successful, ARDEX tile adhesives were approved for the installation. The developer of the project also requested the PANDOMO ® materials to be used on the exterior of the building. Since PANDOMO ® Wall is specifically designed for interior applications, the ARDEX Technical Team worked with the contractor to find a solution.
SOLUTION:
Lotte Engineering & Construction started by coating the installation surfaces with ARDEX ABA 660.V Acrylic Primer. An acrylic primer was specified for this project, because it not only creates a strong bond, but also for its flexibility. ARDEX ABA 660.V uses the most advanced acrylic polymer technology; it is totally resistant to re-emulsification in the hot humid conditions associated with the summer months in Korea.
Tile installation areas received a combination of ARDEX STS 8 Superior Tensile Strength Tile adhesive and ARDEX E 90 Mortar Admix. Developed for use in areas where movement is anticipated and over fibrous cement board, the combination of these two products creates a superior bond and offers increased flexibility. Once the tiles were placed, joints were filled with ARDEX FG 8 Flexible Coloured Grout. ARDEX FG 8 was selected, because it is polymer fortified, making it flexible to resist cracking from the vibrations caused by the train station below. ARDEX FG 8 is mould and water resistant, and its smooth finish also reduces the amount of trapped pollutants, making it perfect for a busy department store installation.
To give the food court a luxurious feel, PANDOMO® Wall was applied. PANDOMO® Wall was the best choice for this installation because of its bond strength, and superior tensile strength. PANDOMO® Wall can be customized to create a unique visual experience by selecting from various colour options and textures. These properties help guarantee a longlasting beautiful installation.
Because of the ARDEX Sales and Technical Teams, Lotte Department Store can expect their beautiful, low maintenance installation will last over a long period of time.
Dubai Mall, Dubai
INSTALLER: ASCON Marble & Granite LLC Plus Painting Works LLC
BUILDER: Dutco Balfour Beatty LLC Al Ghandi & Consolidated Contractors Company
ARCHITECT: DP Architects PTE LTD
CHALLENGES:
- Largest shopping mall in the world
- Very heavy traffic requirements
- Fast track project
- Avoid cracking or staining of the 200,000 m2 natural stone floor that was light in colour
- Work schedules of contractors
PROBLEMS:
Stretching over 1,114,800m2 (12 million ft2) with a floor area of 548,110m2 (5.9 million ft2), the Dubai Mall is one of the largest retail shopping malls in the world. Containing a mixture of urban design principles, this amazing structure contains more than 1000 stores and offers leisure area attractions including a shark tank, an Olympic size skating rink and theme park. To date, the mall contains more steel than the total amount used in the Eiffel Tower and 193,000m2 of stone has been placed. Originally scheduled completion in 2006, the Dubai Mall opened in 2008.
SOLUTION:
Working with the ARDEX Singapore Representative, the specification written by DP Architects listed specific ARDEX products by name, recommended ARDEX qualified contractors for installation and all recommended testing to be completed for the project.
For this flooring installation the existing concrete was primed with ARDEX P 51 Primer, this would seal the substrate and help ensure a strong bond. ARDEX EP 2000 Epoxy Primer was used to prime and fill cracks in preparation to receive the ARDEX K 15 Self- Levelling Underlayment.
Because this was such a large floor installation, ARDEX K 15 Self-Levelling Underlayment was specified. ARDEX K 15 is ideal for large installations, because it can be pumped or poured into place making it easy to use. ARDEX K 15 is formulated with a special blend of polymers to prevent shrinkage and create a smooth, flat surface.
To ensure there would be no tile staining from moisture caused by vapour diffusion a layer of ARDEX WPM 002 Waterproofing Membrane was used. WPM 002 is a strong, fast drying two-component waterproof membrane that is formulated with synthetic microfibers to increase strength and eliminate the need for a separate reinforcement mat. WPM 002 has been designed to use with ARDEX tile adhesives. It does not re-emulsify and accommodates normal building movement which eliminates steps that would be needed with competitors’ products. WPM 002 is fast drying and controls excess construction moisture in the subfloor, so it helped the crew move forward on the project at a steady pace.
ARDEX A 35 Screed was the next step in the Dubai Mall floor installation. A 35 is a rapid setting and drying cement for floor screeds with a compressive strength of 40 N/mm2 (5,800 psi) and can be applied bonded, unbonded or floating. It was developed with ARDEX RapiDry Technology which allowed
the installers to move onto the next step of the installation.
The final part of the installation included placing the natural stone tiles. ARDEX S 16 Natural Stone Adhesive was used to place the stones and then grout with ARDEX MG Grout. S 16 is the preferred adhesive when placing natural stone tiles in areas that are intermittently damp. This would further help prevent the staining of tiles in areas that can get wet, since staining is often associated with moisture issues. MG Grout was selected because of its ARDEX RapiDry formulation, which allows it to dry internally preventing moisture from staining the natural stone. It is also suitable for areas that are intermittently wet, so it would not be affected by potential water spills from one of the many fountains in the mall.
The Dubai Mall had the largest single day retail mall opening with nearly 600 stores present on November 4th, 2008. To ensure there would be no tile staining from moisture caused by vapour diffusion a layer of ARDEX WPM 002 Waterproofing Membrane was used. ARDEX WPM 002 is a strong, fast drying two-component waterproof membrane that is formulated with synthetic microfibers to increase strength and eliminate the need for a separate reinforcement mat. ARDEX WPM 002 has been designed to use with ARDEX tile adhesives. It does not re-emulsify and accommodates normal building movement which eliminates steps that would be needed with competitors’ products. ARDEX WPM 002 is fast drying and controls excess construction moisture in the subfloor, so it helped the crew move forward on the project at a steady pace.
The Dubai Mall had the largest single day retail mall opening with nearly 600 stores present on November 4th, 2008.
The Hub Apartments, Richmond
CONTRACTORS: Waterproofing – Better Waterproofing Pty Ltd; Tiling – Becca’s Tiling Services
The Hub Apartments provide residents with the heart and soul of Richmond’s inner urban lifestyle.
The complex consisting of one and two bedroom apartments features balconies with spectacular views in addition to a unique central garden courtyard that provides natural light and a private environment from the outside world.
ARDEX Australia was nominated as the preferred supplier as a company that could provide holistic solutions that catered for the needs of the project. The waterproofing and tiling contractors worked seamlessly to deliver the project on time and in a smooth, efficient manner.
The Hub was completed using a full System ARDEX solution, from waterproofing through to the finished tiled surfaces.
A number of ARDEX products were used in construction of The Hub Apartments including ARDEX WPM 155 Rapid. 5000 square metres of ARDEX WPM 155 Rapid was used due to the quick turnaround times and ease of substrate preparation. In addition to ARDEX WPM 155 Rapid, the ARDEX system included ARDEX Grout for internal wet areas and the tiled balconies. ARDEX WPM 179 was used in conjunction with a catalyst to waterproof over 200 square metres of planter boxes. The catalyst was used so that the membrane formed an immediate skin, so that rain threatening rain wouldn’t wash off the membrane. Also, over 300 square metres of ARDEX WPM 002 was used to waterproof external terraces over basements. Finally, ARDEX WPM 150 and ARDEX WPM 185 torch applied membranes were used to waterproof 2000 square metres of roof and terraces.
Sandgate Apartments, 51 Ashburner St, Manly
INSTALLER/APPLICATOR/GENERAL CONTRACTOR: Tecorp Constructions
CHALLENGE:
The 8 storey building “Sandgate Apartments” is approximately 45 years old and located in what has been described as a “severe marine environment” within 100 metres of the South Steyne Beach, Manly NSW. The existing clay brick façade has deteriorated due to salt penetration and crystallisation over the years that have resulted in fretting/spalling of the exposed brick faces.
PROBLEM/SITUATION:
Bricks needed to be high-pressure water blasted to remove surface salts in order to get a good bond of the render system. Due to the location of the building in a severe marine environment, the façade needed adequate protection from salt ingress and sea spray. Also, in combination with the ARDEX Render System, the application of ARDEX WPM 310 would provide a weather-proof barrier and a contemporary look of the façade.
SOLUTION:
- Remove and replace defective bricks and cut out any sections where the brick mortar is deteriorated to expose sound solid mortar and re-point with new mortar as necessary to achieve a flat surface. Allow to harden before proceeding.
- All existing painted surfaces to have a 2-3 mm scratch coat of ARDEX WR 60 and WR Prime.
- On all existing masonry brickwork to install ARDEX WR 100 and WR Prime applied as base coat.
- One coat of ARDEX WPM 270 as the prime coat prior to the application of the façade coating.
- Apply the ARDEX WPM 310 Façade Coating over the dry primed surface in two coats at a minimum 300 microns per coat.
ARDEX was able to provide a complete compatible system for the rectification of the façade of this prime water-front apartment block along Manly beach, adding value for the owner’s investment for the years to come.
Oracle Apartments, Broadbeach
INSTALLER: BAT Tiling
BUILDER: Niecon Developments Pty Ltd
ARCHITECT: Niecon Developments Pty Ltd.
CHALLENGES:
– One 40 level and one 50 level tower
– Mixed use development
– Multiple tile applications
PROBLEMS:
As part of a redevelopment plan to turn Broadbeach into a high-end ‘live-work-play’ destination, an $850 million investment was provided to build two modern towers, the Oracle Broadbeach Apartments. Niecon Development specified ARDEX products as the solution to this challenge. In doing so, they received complete peace of mind knowing ARDEX tile adhesives are high quality products compatible with marble, vitrified and ceramic tile.
SOLUTION:
BAT Tiling worked with ARDEX Australia to offer a SYSTEMARDEX solution. SYSTEMARDEX is a complete regiment of high quality, compatible tiling, flooring and waterproofing products matched with unparalleled technical and field support. Each product is engineered through meticulous research and developed with feedback from contractors, specifiers, manufacturers and clients.
Starting with one of the markets fastest drying acrylic membranes, installers applied ARDEX WPM 002 Superflex Bathroom and Balcony Two Part Waterproofing Membrane where needed. WPM 002 specifically addresses internal moisture issues under tiles. Because WPM 002 is microfiber reinforced, a reinforcing mat is not needed In non-exposed permanent immersion areas.
Once the waterproofing membrane was sufficiently dry, screeds were placed throughout the building. To ensure the screeds would have strong bonds, high shears and tensile strengths ARDEX Abacrete Bonding Agent was addedAbacrete is a non-toxic liquid polymer additive designed specifically for use with screeds and renders. This additive also improves water resistance in the flooring.
To ensure the tile adhesives would bond appropriately to the substrates, ARDEX Multiprime Water-Based Primer was recommended. Multiprime is easy to apply using a sponge, brush or roller. This process saves time and creates a strong bond between the screed and adhesive. Where necessary, ARDEX Abaflex Premium Polymer Modified Flexible Tile Adhesive was applied, and ARDEX DS 40 Impact Sound Reduction and Decoupling system was placed. Abaflexs’ eight-hour cure time allows contractors to quickly move forward with the project. Abaflex is a good choice because of its flexibility in accommodating cracks (up to .9mm) created by building movement. DS 40 enhanced the luxury of the multipurpose building by reducing impact noise transfer from tenants above. DS 40 acoustic mats are pre-cut for easy application and can be placed over various substrates. DS 40 can also be directly tiled over using an ARDEX tile adhesive.
To accommodate the variety of tiles used in the building, ARDEX X 10 Flexible Non Slump Wall and Floor Tile Adhesive was recommended. X 10 is a polymer modified, cement-based wall and floor tile adhesive created with mastic properties ideal for all tile types. The mastic properties prevent sagging and movement in flooring and wall tile installation, maintaining the level of quality required by general contractors.
Once tiles were placed, ARDEX grouts were used as the final step. Where pigmented grout was required, ARDEX FG 8 Flexible Coloured Grout for Tile Joints 1 to 8 mm wide was used. FG 8 may be used on floors and walls and is easy to apply using a rubber trowel. Because it contains anti-mould agents and water repellents, the appearance and overall cleanliness of the rooms is easily maintained. FG 8 also cures to a smooth finish reducing the amount of trapped dirt and airborne contaminants.
Wherever a wider joint width occurred, ARDEX Wide Joint Sanded Cement-Based Grout was applied. This grout is shrink-resistant, and is especially suited for wider joints ranging from 5 to 15 mm. It can be used for floor or wall applications, around swimming pools and showers, and is available in a range of colours. For all carpeted areas, ARDEX AF 266 Outdoor Carpet Adhesive was recommended. This water-based adhesive has a low odor, so it is ideal for indoor use. ARDEX recommended this product, because it is resistant to the frequent, commercial grade cleaning expected in a luxury multi-purpose high rise.
Each of the products used for this project are part of the SYSTEMARDEX solution.
Ocean Marina Pointe Apartments, Mandurah
ARCHITECT: Eames and Associates
Nothing says sophistication like the seamless, mirrorlike quality of polished porcelain. Fixing porcelain requires skill and the right materials as the slightest uneveness (lip) will stand out a mile away.
The vision for Ocean Marina Pointe Apartments was to provide a seaside lifestyle with a touch of sophistication – catamarans, cafes and campari. Not surprisingly the architects of Eames and Associates & Dibstone Group chose Granitogres’ Casalgrande Padana, a 400 x 400mm honed porcelain.
When it comes to the tolerance of the tile itself, with quality porcelain there should be no lippage. The next requirement is that of an even surface – the larger the tile the more critical it is. Therefore, often a sand/cement screed or levelling compound is used to patch up any unevenness in the floor or to ramp up the slab, prior to fixing the porcelain with a suitable tile adhesive.
Due to time limitations, the specification by Project Manager, Steve Maru, called for an adhesive which could be patched up in places without the requirement of a screed.
After careful consideration, ARDEX STS 8 was selected. ARDEX STS 8 unique non-sink, non-slump formulation allows the use of heavy tiles without the risk of the adhesive bed giving way. On balconies and other external areas, ARDEX STS 8 was mixed with Ardion 90 to accommodate movement.
The tiling contractors were delighted to return the next day and find the porcelain exactly the way they had left it – no lip. What’s more, the tilers liked the workability of the product, with Kevin Byron going as far as claiming “STS 8 is the best adhesive on the market to use to lay porcelain.”
University Hospital, Gold Coast
INSTALLER: Master Floor Preparers
CONTRACTOR: Bovis Lend Lease
The new Gold Coast University Hospital is one of the largest public health infrastructure project.
Bovis Lend Lease worked in partnership with Queensland Health as the Stage One Managing Contractor on the new A$1.76 billion hospital. The 750 overnight-bed tertiary level hospital provides a greater range of specialised care to patients, including new and expanded services such as cancer radiotherapy services, neurosciences, neonatal intensive care, trauma response services and cardiac surgery.
ARDEX products have been used extensively throughout the Gold Coast University Hospital with over 100,000 square metres of ARDEX K 12 being used in areas subject to vinyl installation.
Courtney Dunn from Master Floor Preparers in Queensland confirmed that they were also using ARDEX WPM 300 moisture barrier due to moisture being retained in the substrates across the entire project.
Courtney Dunn said that “ARDEX products gives me peace of mind when undertaking large projects” and “ARDEX offers premium products that my staff like working with”.
Paediatric Hospital, Melbourne
GENERAL CONTRACTORS: Bovis Lend Lease
CONTRACTORS: Omni Flooring / Floor 91
The world-class, billion dollar paediatric hospital went under construction in Melbourne by Bovis Lend Lease and was built to meet the current and future health care needs of children and young people.
It was developed on the existing hospital site which was originally built in 1963; however the new hospital will combine new facilities, innovative models of care, leading edge research and education to provide the best health care and environment for patients, families and staff. The new hospital will be able to treat 35,000 additional patients per year and there will be more single rooms for the children.
ARDEX Australia are pleased to be involved in the construction of this state-of-the-art hospital and have supplied several products. The products were installed by two contractors specialising in ARDEX – Omni Flooring and Floor 91 in Victoria. Both contractors commenced work at the hospital early 2010.
ARDEX was successful in being specified on this project by offering a full product system from substrate to surface.
The Royal Children’s Hospital is Australia’s first five-star green hospital with a 45 per cent reduction in greenhouse gases and 20 per cent reduction in water demands. It features attractions from the Melbourne Zoo, Scienceworks, a cinema and an aquarium.
International Airport, Canberra
ARCHITECT: Guida Moseley Brown Architects
CONTRACTOR: PDA Marble and Granite
Canberra’s Airport is located on the eastern edge of North Canberra and is the eighth busiest airport in Australia. The new terminal features duty free shopping, free Wi-Fi and a café bar.
Luxurious furnishings and striking sculptures compliment stone floors and floor to ceiling windows that provide natural light and a clear view to the runways. The vision for the airport was to provide a stimulating point of difference for passengers resulting in a variety of sculptures being commissioned by renowned artists.
The system used for this project comprised of ARDEX DS 60 Decoupling Mat which is ideal for large areas where crack isolation is imperative. The unique floating system isolated base movement while only being 0.4mm thick.
ARDEX A 38 screed was laid because of the high compressive strength required for the high traffic area. Finally ARDEX X 18, a Fibre Reinforced Flexible Non Slump Wall and Floor Tile Adhesive was used to adhere the Terrazzo Tiles. ARDEX X 18 contains specially developed fibres that add strength to the tiled area.
CHALLENGES:
ARDEX A 38 screed was incorporated into the system because it provided high compressive strength and could manage the high levels of traffic that were expected in the terminal. It also provided rapid drying properties which allowed tiling to commence earlier, which greatly assisted in meeting deadlines for the new terminal to open and receive flights.
Airport, Newcastle
A major $80 million expansion of Newcastle Airport has recently been completed to transform the existing airport and create a second international airport for NSW. The expansion saw the terminal size double and facilities improved to cater for international ights. ARDEX was specified for the tiling throughout.
ARDEX S 16 (with ARDEX E 90) was used to lay 1600 sqm of natural stone throughout the arrivals and departure lounges of the airport. ARDEX S 16 locks in moisture and reduced the risk of eflorescence and water marks on the natural stone tiles that were laid. Recently, ARDEX S 16 has been replaced with the superior ARDEX S 28 Neu, an Ardurapid, Microtec stone and tile adhesive.
ARDEX X 10 was ideal for use over the membranes and provides excellent slump resistance for both wall and floor tiles. ARDEX X 10 provides mastic type properties.
In addition to the Natural Stone, a further 1000m2 of bathroom tiling that included both walls and floors was also laid and waterproofed using the ARDEX WPM 155 Rapid Waterproong System with ARDEX STB Tape. This system allowed the wet areas to be tiled in as little as four hours after the application of the membrane, an added benet particularly for projects with a tight timeline.
CHALLENGES:
A sample of the Natural Stone was supplied by Newcastle Tile Company to the ARDEX Technical Team and a specication was issued for the complete tiling system catering for this type of natural stone. The natural stone was thermally sensitive (susceptible to the effect of heat and light) so a speciality tile adhesive ARDEX S 16 along with ARDEX E 90 was specied and used. In addition, the floor was also levelled where necessary to x undulations between old and new slabs.
“The development of Newcastle Airport to accommodate international flights is a huge step forward for both tourism and the growing population in the area,” explained ARDEX Account Manager, Jeff Anderson.
“It is exciting to witness investment in infrastructure and ARDEX is proud to be involved in such an iconic project.”
