Waterproof Membranes for Balconies in Perth: A Guide to Selection Criteria, Standards and Products

When evaluating waterproof membranes for balconies in Perth, it is important to consider the relevant Australian standards and building codes, amongst the regular performance and cost criteria. Here are some examples for consideration in your project:

1. Water resistance: The waterproof membrane should meet the requirements of AS 4654.1 Waterproofing membranes for external above-ground use - Part 1: Materials. This standard sets out the minimum requirements for water resistance and durability of external above-ground waterproofing membranes.

2. Durability: The membrane should comply with the requirements of NCC Volume Two, Part 3.4 Waterproofing, which outlines the durability requirements for waterproofing systems in buildings.

3. Flexibility: The membrane should meet the requirements of AS 4858 Wet area membranes - Part 1: Materials, which specifies the minimum flexibility requirements for waterproofing membranes used in wet areas.

4. Adhesion: The membrane should comply with the adhesion requirements of AS 4654.2 Waterproofing membranes for external above-ground use - Part 2: Design and installation.

5. UV resistance: The membrane should meet the UV resistance requirements set out in AS 4654.1.

6. Slip resistance: The balcony surface should comply with the slip resistance requirements of AS 4586 Slip resistance classification of new pedestrian surface materials, which outlines the methods for testing and classifying slip resistance of pedestrian surfaces.

7. Ease of installation: The installation of the waterproof membrane should comply with the requirements of AS 4654.2, which provides guidance on the design and installation of waterproofing membranes for external above-ground use.

Here are a number of products that have been designed to meet or exceed these standards:

1. Water resistance: When selecting a waterproof membrane for your balcony in Perth, it's essential to consider water resistance requirements. Here are three options:

   1. Option 1: Ardex WPM 300 membrane - This membrane has been tested to withstand a minimum water pressure of 5000 Pa, which exceeds the minimum requirement of AS 4654.1. (https://www.ardexaustralia.com/product/ardex-wpm-300/)

   2. Option 2: Davco K10 Plus membrane - This product has been designed to provide superior waterproofing protection and has been independently tested to meet AS 4858. (https://www.davco.com.au/en/products/waterproofing/davco-k10-plus.html)

   3. Option 3: Bostik Ultraset SF membrane - This membrane has been specifically designed for use in external applications and has excellent resistance to UV degradation. (https://www.bostik.com/australia/en_AU/product/bostik-ultraset-sf/)

2. Durability: The membrane's durability is crucial to ensure the longevity of your balcony. Here are three options:

   1. Option 1: Crommelin Aquablock Flex - This liquid applied membrane has a proven track record of durability and is suitable for use in a variety of external applications. (https://crommelin.com.au/products/aquablock-flex)

   2. Option 2: Mapei Mapelastic Smart membrane - This highly flexible membrane can withstand movements and vibrations without cracking or tearing, making it an ideal option for areas subject to movement. (https://www.mapei.com/au/en/products-and-solutions/products/detail/mapelastic-smart)

   3. Option 3: SikaTite membrane - This product has excellent adhesion properties and can be applied to a variety of substrates, including concrete, brick, and metal, making it a versatile and durable option. (https://aus.sika.com/en/solutions_products/solutions/structure-waterproofing/balconies-terraces-roofs/sikatite-w.html)

   4. Option 4: Ardex WPM 300 membrane - This membrane has an excellent track record and comes with a 10 year comprehensive product warranty. (https://www.ardexaustralia.com/product/ardex-wpm-300/)

3. Flexibility: The membrane's flexibility is an essential characteristic to consider, especially in areas subject to movement. Here are three options:

   1. Option 1: Mapei Mapelastic Smart membrane - This membrane has exceptional flexibility and is designed to withstand movements and vibrations without cracking or tearing. (https://www.mapei.com/au/en/products-and-solutions/products/detail/mapelastic-smart)

   2. Option 2: Ardex WPM 300 membrane - This membrane has excellent elongation and recovery properties, allowing it to withstand movements and vibrations without compromising its waterproofing capabilities. (https://www.ardexaustralia.com/product/ardex-wpm-300/)

   3. Option 3: SikaSwell A - This flexible waterproofing membrane expands upon contact with water and can be used to waterproof areas subject to movement or vibration. (https://aus.sika.com/en/solutions_products/solutions/structure-waterproofing/balconies-terraces-roofs/sikaswell-a.html)

References:

• AS 4654.1 Waterproofing membranes for external above-ground use - Part 1: Materials

• NCC Volume Two, Part 3.4 Waterproofing

• AS 4858 Wet area membranes - Part 1: Materials

• AS 4654.2 Waterproofing membranes for external above-ground use - Part 2: Design and installation

• AS 4586 Slip resistance classification of new pedestrian surface materials