Finex Engineering Head Office – 19th July 2024

On July 19th, 2024, the Finex Engineering Head Office hosted a highly informative workshop on Proper Waterproofing of Buildings. Organized by the CCI – HWK Vocational Training Improvement Project in collaboration with the Chamber of Construction Industry of Sri Lanka, the event brought together leading construction companies, vocational school teachers, and industry experts to discuss advanced waterproofing techniques and best practices.

The workshop was expertly conducted by Joachim Schaumlöffel, a Master Roofer from the Chamber of Skilled Crafts Frankfurt – Rhein-Main, whose extensive experience and knowledge provided invaluable insights to all attendees.

Participating Companies and Institutions:

• Sanken Construction (Pvt) Ltd.
• ECO POWER (PVT) LIMITED
• CINEC Campus
• SLLDRC
• DIMO Academy
• Ranjan Nadesapillai Associates
• International Construction Consortium (ICC)
• Tudawe Brothers
• Advantis Projects & Engineering (Pvt) Ltd
• Rhino Roofing Product Ltd.
• China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd.

Workshop Content:

The workshop featured an extensive agenda covering various aspects of building waterproofing. The topics included:

1. The Flat Roof:

• • Understanding the structure and requirements for flat roof waterproofing.
  •  Techniques for ensuring durable and leak-proof flat roofs.

2. Waterproofing on the Roof:

• • Comprehensive strategies for roof waterproofing.
  • Choosing the right materials and methods for different roofing types.

3. Green Roofing and the Retention Roof:

• • Benefits and challenges of green roofing systems.
  • Implementation and maintenance of retention roofs for water management.

4. Bitumen Sheetings:

• • Detailed overview of using bitumen sheeting or plastic membranes for waterproofing.
  • Application methods and longevity considerations.

5. Environment and Durability:

• • Evaluating the environmental impact of waterproofing materials.
  • Ensuring the durability of waterproofing solutions in various climates.

6. Jointing and Sealing:

• • Techniques for effective jointing and sealing to prevent leaks.
  • Identifying and addressing critical areas before commencing waterproofing work.

7. Proper Preparation Techniques:

• • Preparation methods to avoid leaks and seepage.
  • Importance of thorough preparation to ensure long-term waterproofing success.

8. Wet Bathrooms and Waterproofing Above Ground Level:

• • Specialized techniques for waterproofing wet bathrooms.
  • Addressing waterproofing challenges in above-ground-level bathrooms.

9. Handling Heavy Tropical Rain:

• • Strategies for waterproofing in tropical climates with heavy rainfall.
  • Case studies on the success of concrete roofs in Sri Lanka.

Key Highlights:

The workshop emphasized the importance of proper waterproofing preparation to avoid common issues such as leaks and seepage. Participants learned about critical places to watch and effective techniques for jointing and sealing, ensuring comprehensive waterproofing solutions for various building types.

The session on green roofing and retention roofs highlighted the environmental benefits and practical implementation of these systems, which are increasingly relevant in sustainable construction practices. The discussion on bitumen sheetings and plastic membranes provided valuable insights into selecting the right materials for different projects.

Conclusion:

The workshop concluded with a vibrant Q&A session, where participants engaged with experts to clarify their doubts and share experiences. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees appreciating the depth of knowledge shared and the practical insights gained.

The CCI – HWK Vocational Training Improvement Project and the Chamber of Construction Industry of Sri Lanka are committed to continuing their efforts in advancing vocational training and industry standards. The success of this workshop underscores the importance of collaborative learning and knowledge sharing in the construction industry.

For more information about upcoming workshops and training programs, please contact the CCI – HWK Vocational Training Improvement Project team.