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BUILDING CONNECTION
SUMMER 2016
THE SPIN ONWELDED VINYL
A
debate is currently under way in Tasmania,
regarding the compliant use of welded sheet vinyl
in wet areas, and whether the substrate beneath
the vinyl requires the application of a waterproofing
membrane system.
While this subject has supposedly been put to bed on the
big island, and all states and territories are legislated to
follow BCA requirements (then again, how many actually
comply with the BCA?), the Tasmanian waters have been
muddied by statements such as:
“We have never had to waterproof under vinyl before, so
why now?”
“Welded joints to vinyl are waterproof, therefore the whole
flooring is a waterproof thing.”
“Commercial grade vinyl doesn’t require waterproofing.”
These comments are misleading, and not supported
by any evidence of BCA compliance, or manufacturer
specifications.
We therefore need to look at BCA provisions, as a starting
point, and then wade through the various steps involved with
determining the suitability of a product when installed in a
wet area.
And guess what? It needs to be in writing, or it’s not true!
BCA (NCC) COMPLIANCE
The BCA requires that a Building Solution complies with
the Performance Requirements. This can be achieved by
either:
1. Complying with the Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions.
Part 3.8.1 of BCA Volume 2, references AS 3740-2010
(Waterproofing of Domestic Wet Areas) as the Deemed to
Satisfy Solution.
2. A Performance Solution as determined by BCA 1.0.8, 1.0.9
and 1.0.10. I won’t go into the requirements as these have
been covered by previous articles in this publication.
3. An expert judgement following the verification methods
prescribed and documenting Evidence of Suitability under
Part 1.2.
4. A combination of above where these do not adversely affect
the performance provisions of other building elements.
It is up to the building surveyor/ certifier/ local authority
to assess and accept a Building Solution as one which will
comply with the Performance Provisions. Will it leak, rot
stuff out, cause it to fail or adversely affect the health and
amenity of the occupants?
ANDREWGOLLE
DISCUSSES WHETHER WELDED SHEET VINYL FOR WET AREAS IS WATERPROOF OR WATER
RESISTANT, AND WHAT IT MEANS FOR COMPLIANCE.
COVER STORY:
TILING DEFECTS
1:
Absence of waterproofing to WR plasterboard behind
lamipanel.
2:
Effects of water damage to water resistant
plasterboard at base of sheet.
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