What are the major issues and challenges in the waterproofing industry?
The major hurdle in the industry is the lack of standardization of the waterproofing methods and also the numerous over the counter (OTC) products. If people randomly go for products endorsed by a celebrity and do not know the exact applications, then it is a matter of concern. However, such ads are actually bringing awareness about the importance of waterproofing.
Waterproofing today accounts for a mere 0.75 to 1% of the total cost of construction, but it is this minuscule percent that will save the 99% of the construction cost.
Sandeep Choudhry
Nowadays, waterproofing is not being done seriously, which has caused many buildings or structures to degrade in quality at an alarming rate. Waterproofing today accounts for a mere 0.75 to 1% of the total cost of construction. However, it must be understood that it is this minuscule percent that will save the 99% of the construction cost. If this 1% is compromised, the entire structure loses its life at almost 1/4th the time of its actual life; in other words, if the structure has been built to last for, say 100 years, its strength will degrade in just 30 years. A big issue is that people are more concerned about the cost of waterproofing and not about the cost of not having their building properly waterproofed.
Waterproofing involves a lot of technicalities in terms of site location, climate, factors affecting the strength of the material, and so on. All of these have to be considered when deciding on a proper system of waterproofing. Unfortunately, building architects/designers and, most importantly, the builders do not give much importance to waterproofing as they do not realize that improper waterproofing ultimately leads to failure of the entire building. The manufacturers simply sell their products either to the applicator or to the client without giving them the know-how on the right product and application. This is where the problem lies, and when the blame game is played, it is the applicators who are made the scapegoats.
How is WAI bringing greater awareness on quality waterproofing?
Waterproofing is the most crucial solution in any building or structure. WAI was formed with the aim of bringing quality waterproofing and in finding the right solutions for the construction industry. It seeks to bring standardization through formal training, seminars and workshops on the importance of waterproofing.
WAI also looks at the well-being of waterproofing applicators and contractors as their growth and development will propel the growth of all those associated with the waterproofing industry, including manufacturers and building contractors. We plan to undertake skilling of the applicators at our training center in Goa to enhance their capabilities. In India, chemical manufacturers are giving superficial training to the applicators. Our aim is to provide them technical training, with a focus on new application techniques and products.
Unfortunately, building architects/designers and, builders do not give much importance to waterproofing as they do not realize that improper waterproofing ultimately leads to failure of the entire building.
Dixit Bajaj
How has the construction industry responded to the setting up of WAI?
WAI provides a unified voice and a dignified platform to the construction industry. It is expected that by the end of July 2018 we’ll have over 200 members as we have been getting an overwhelming response from the industry, including architects.
Membership in WAI will serve as a platform to connect the members to a nationwide network of professionals and experts who will support each other and will share updates and information at every step. We envisage at least 25 Chapters in India and 5 Chapters in the SAARC countries with over 500 members.
While the prime objective of WAI is to enhance the capabilities of waterproofers involved in providing complete waterproofing solutions to upcoming projects and in rehabilitation of old buildings, it also wants to provide information and education of other stakeholders such as Architects, Interior Designers and Builders so that they can add value for their clients.
How will WAI assist Architects and Builders?
WAI aims to bring awareness of the importance of waterproofing, standardization and quality through applicator training, workshops and seminars conducted by industry experts for disseminating information about the latest waterproofing products and solutions to architects and builders. The Association along with the leading manufacturers of the Waterproofing Chemicals will be organizing Technical Sessions for the Architects and their associates. These will be organized from time to time in all the major cities in India. The first one was held this May at Gurgaon; it focused on technical upgradation, information on new technologies, and products that can be used for waterproofing of terraces.
Please elaborate on roof / terrace waterproofing.
These days, terraces also have gardens. The products required for the waterproofing of terrace gardens are specially formulated so that the roots cannot penetrate the coating. We have to understand that different requirements have different products. Terraces are being used for different uses. The waterproofing treatment also depends on the use of the terrace. There are coatings which not only waterproof the surface but also give thermal insulation. Decorative waterproof coatings give color to terraces while waterproofing them too.
