More and more specifiers are taking into consideration the green credentials and versatility of waterproofing systems and considering mastic asphalt as a top deck waterproofing system for car parks. Due to its longevity, low maintenance properties, skid resistance and sustainability, mastic asphalt waterproofing systems are proving especially popular for retail projects.
Radflex Contract Services design and install waterproof structural expansion joints and work alongside mastic asphalt manufacturers to provide solutions for major retailers, shopping centres and car park owners and operators UK-wide. The durability and flexibility of mastic asphalt waterproofing means the system works well with expansion joints, allowing for the natural movement of buildings.
The environmental credentials of mastic asphalt are a key driver for its selection as a top deck car park waterproofing system. More than 10 years ago, the mastic asphalt sector became the first industry in the world to achieve the CarbonZero standard. It is carbon neutral – a bonus for any car park owners or operators anxious to show their sustainable principles and, when it has reached the end of its useful life, it can be recycled or used as a waterproofing screed, minimising the impact on the environment.
There are specially formulated mastic asphalt waterproofing and surfacing systems available for elevated vehicle decks, pedestrian walkways and access ramps, utilising advanced polymer technology for long-term durability, increased fatigue resistance, improved temperature stability and ease of installation. Several members of the Mastic Asphalt Council (MAC), as well as MAC itself, are members of the British Parking Association (BPA) and are experienced in solving problems associated with heavily used car parks.
Mastic asphalt waterproofing systems are delivered ready to lay, in 18-tonne hot charge tankers. This process ensures the mix is more consistent for a better quality, easier-to-lay asphalt. It also saves time, reduces costs and benefits the environment as there’s no secondary heating and melting needed on site; making it a much safer and quicker process. Systems are available that come with a 20-year warranty on car parks and are installed by trained, experienced asphalters.
One award-winning waterproofing project has been carried out at the Marks & Spencer store at Cheshire Oaks in Ellesmere Port. Opened in August 2012, the store was designed to be the most carbon efficient, premier M&S store to date with an architectural and design strategy that addresses several areas of sustainability at once. The second biggest M&S store in the world, and the largest ever built from scratch with over 148,000 sq ft of selling space over two floors, the single deck car park is connected to the store andwas protected with mastic asphalt waterproofing in conjunction with 96LM of Radflex S200 movement joint. It was declared winner of the ‘Best New Car Park’ at the British Parking Awards.
Mastic asphalt was selected for this project due to its green credentials and carbon neutral rating. The main contractor was Simons Group and the architect was Aukett Fitzroy Robinson. MAC manufacturer member IKO and Radflex Contract Services were involved in the construction of the 950-space car park. Radflex movement joints provided the best linkage available to support the performance of the asphalt.
The parking areas are permeable to allow for water harvesting and its south-facing elevation is covered in greenery to encourage wildlife diversity, with bird boxes installed where possible. The car park also provides electric car charging points and cycle parking for all store visitors. Hemp was used for insulation, all water from the car park deck was used to water the green walls, and all the timber used within the store was recycled.
An abbreviated version of this article featured in the August Edition of Parking News magazine – click here to take a look.