Construction World March 2023

its membranes against the perforating action of roots. The antiroot properties are further enhanced by adding a specific ester agent to the polymer-bitumen compound, forming a continuous barrier against roots. The additive has been developed specifically as a root inhibitor, for both hot-laid bitumen and for torch-laid bitumen membranes. As it does not contain film or double-reinforced foils, Sika Index Defend Antiroot is more flexible and malleable during application. It is always applied as the last waterproofing layer in contact with the earth for gardens. When waterproofing roof gardens for instance, it is used as the top layer of a system, the first layer being a polymer-bitumen membrane reinforced with “non-woven” polyester fabric and the second being Sika Index Defend Antiroot polyester which is placed astride the overlaps of the previous layer and fully bonded with the torch. The performance of the bitumen is therefore increased, durability and resistance to high and low temperatures are improved, thus maintaining the bitumen’s already excellent qualities of adhesion and waterproofing. The reinforcement of the membrane with an isotropic, rot-proof, thermally

fixed single strand Spunbond non-woven polyester fabric, affords high mechanical resistance, considerable ultimate elongation and excellent resistance to punching and laceration. On-boarding these superior, durable, and high-performing products, alongside Sika’s already impressive range, Sika South Africa will become a comprehensive, full‐range supplier of cutting-edge technologies in the roofing and waterproofing market. 

reinforced with high areal weight, isotropic, thermally fixed, rot-proof, “non-woven” single strand Spunbond polyester fabric. The reinforcement is very strong and has an optimal resistance to puncture and piercing. The Sika Index Testudo membranes are made up of distilled bitumen with a high content of elastomeric and plastomeric polymer additives, selected for industrial use. Sika Index Testudo membranes’ high resistance to puncture make them suitable for waterproofing systems where high mechanical resistance is required, such as: foundations, earthquake proof foundations, car parks, water works, bridges, viaducts, tunnels, subways, geological works, etc., anti–acid protection, roofing with or without thermal insulation and renovation work. The Sika Index Fidia polyester and Fidia/V membranes, produced in various thicknesses, are made up of distilled bitumen, selected for industrial use, with added elastomeric and plastomeric polymers. They are reinforced with a rot proof “non-woven” polyester fabric composite, stabilised with fibreglass mat, which is very strong and elastic, thus reducing the problems of "the banana effect" and the retraction of head lap joints. The long-lasting strength, elasticity and stability at high and low temperatures make Sika Index Fidia polyester membranes ideal for use as dam linings, and single or multi-layer waterproofing systems for new building work or refurbishments. The Sika Index VIS P membranes manufacturing process uses polymer modified bitumen reinforced with a composite reinforcement. The Sika Index VIS Polyester 4 mm membrane can be used as a single layer system or as part of a multi-layer in both the refurbishment and new building works market. The Sika Index Vis P 3 mm should be used as an underlayer in a multi-layer waterproofing system. The progressive trend to reduce cement in towns by greening up rooftops, has brought with it the problem of the root resistance of waterproofing layers not protected with cement screeds. Sika Index Defend Antiroot is a root resistant waterproofing membrane whereby direct contact of the layer with the soil implies intrinsic resistance of

7 CONSTRUCTION WORLD MARCH 2023