a.b.e.® has launched a new, unique bitumen heat-fused waterproofing membrane produced by the world-renowned Italian company, Index, with which a.b.e.® has an exclusive agreement with for product distribution in SA.
The new product is Armodillo, a multi-functional polymer-bitumen membrane that offers waterproofing, drainage and the protection of foundation walls in a single product application.
a.b.e.®, part of the Chryso Southern Africa Group, signed an agreement with Index in 1996 and recently celebrated the sale of 2 million rolls of the Index bitumen waterproofing membranes in South Africa.
Lance Anderson, a.b.e.®’s Brand Manager: Waterproofing, says: “Index’s new Armodillo Polyester membranes – which incorporate anti-root protection can solve the problems of waterproofing, mechanical protection, and drainage – all in one product.
“Armodillo’s upper face is armoured with impact-resistant, elastic polymer-bitumen ‘dimples’ or bubbles –similar to the protective plates of an Armadillo’s shell – that protect the membrane from perforation when buried, and at the same time form an efficient drainage network that allows any water to quickly drain to the perimeter drains, stopping hazardous pooling. If the dimples are torched, they become adhesive, making it possible to bond insulating panels, non-woven fabrics and other materials on to the membrane.
“The lower face of Armodillo membranes is covered with Flamina, a plastic film that can be easily torched. The bubbles on the Armodillo membranes keep the installer’s hands away from the torch, making installation much safer and easier. Index Armodillo can be installed by bonding the next membrane onto the 70 mm indented selvage of the previous membrane ensuring that no raised, uneven problematic laps are created,” Anderson adds.
Armodillo can be used on both flat and vertical parts of a building, and for ground foundation walls as a protective and draining layer. It was recently installed at a roof garden test site at the University of Cape Town.
“a.b.e.® sees tremendous potential for Index Armodillo as a simple-to-use waterproofing solution for both roof gardens and below-ground tanking areas. Its multi-functionality substantially reduces multiple product applications to reduce time on site. The Armodillo multi-functional membrane has far greater puncture resistance than conventional HDPE membranes,” Anderson states.
Armodillo membranes are covered against product failure by Index’s 10-year insurance-backed warranty that incorporates excess-free claims should a product-related failure occur.
The Index Armodillo technical data sheet can be accessed at www.abe.co.za or contact Lance Anderson on [email protected] for more information.