Kemper System’s Kemperol AC Speed is among the market leaders of fast-curing, liquid-applied PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate) waterproofing resin systems.

The PMMA technology from Kemper System is cold-applied and can be walked on after just 35 minutes before receiving the next coat after an hour. It combines quick installation with versatile aesthetic finishes – perfect for walkways, terraces and balcony applications, as well as roofs and car parks.

PMMA Development

The popularity for PMMA liquid waterproofing solutions has grown in recent years, but the technology isn’t a new concept.

PMMA was first developed more than 90 years ago and many liquid waterproofing manufacturers, including Kemper System, have offered a PMMA solution as part of their portfolio for many years.

Advantages of PMMA

As well as being fast-curing, PMMA products are durable, flexible and hard-wearing. The cold-applied liquid cures rapidly even at temperatures around 0°C or lower, and is installed wet-on-wet. This means the polyester reinforcing fleece in Kemper System’s PMMA solution is first saturated with liquid waterproofing resin, bonding the membrane to the substrate, with the surface layer then applied onto the bonding coat while still wet. This forms a single, seamless membrane of uniform thickness.

PMMA also lends itself well to winter working where days are shorter and the weather unpredictable, as curing times combined with site occupancy are shorter than other waterproofing systems.

Tough and robust, PMMA can provide a sound waterproofing solution for decades, as long as care is taking during preparation and installation stages.

Preparation and Communication

It is essential that contractors are fully prepared before applying Kemperol AC Speed, as this product is extremely fast-curing. Transparent communication between architects and contractors to establish exact awareness of product behaviour is vital to ensure the streamlined running of any Kemperol AC Speed application project.

For example, it is essential to be mindful of the weather and potential changes of the forecast throughout the day. Fluctuating temperatures can create moisture on the substrate, which in turn will have an impact on the cure. Using a catalyst controls the cure better with Kemperol AC Speed, but contractors can sometimes be caught out by changing temperatures and resulting dew points.

The product datasheets and certifications provide recommendations regarding the minimum temperature for application, so contractors must read these carefully before use. This is particularly important as moisture present on the substrate could significantly affect adhesion and compromise the quality of the waterproofing.

Kemperol AC Speed system has a minimum of two components, the first being the resin and the second being a catalyst or activator. Contractors mix the components together on site, starting the chemical reaction that initiates the rapid curing process. Contractors should be aware that this process generates a degree of heat.

As with any liquid waterproofing product, it is vital that contractors ensure the substrate is clean, dry and stable prior to application. Kemperol AC Speed can also be applied over the majority of existing roof waterproofing systems such as single ply and asphalt, subject to following the product’s preparation guidelines.

It also includes Kempertec AC Primer which is applied first before two coats of fleece-reinforced PMMA solution. The entire system is cold-applied, and adheres to all necessary testing and holds certification to showcase its high quality.

For roofing applications, Kemperol AC Speed can be applied exposed, direct-to-deck, over an insulated assembly, or recover an existing membrane.

Design Considerations

The Kemperol AC Speed resin is available in different colours to match any design brief. When used for waterproofing, the membrane can be covered with tile, paver, pavement, growing media and other types of approved overburden. Kemperol AC Speed is also available in quartz finishes and different colour topcoat options, offering a slip-inhibiting layer and decorative appearance.

Case Study - Merton Hotel balconies, Jersey

Located on the outskirts of St Helier, the Merton Hotel is the largest on the island and also home to 28 ‘Merton Suites.’ These units provide apartment-style accommodation for up to 12 guests and are available for both short- and long-term lets.

Kemper System’s Kemperol AC Speed was specified to address recurring water ingress issues underneath the floor tiles on the balconies and under the door sills into the apartments.

This PMMA waterproofing system project also includes the penetrative Kempertec AC Primer which seals and conditions the cementitious substrate, and Kemperdur AC Finish in the colour beige. Replacing the tiles, this heavy-duty coating provides a final, slip-inhibiting layer with a decorative appearance.

The Kemperol AC Speed PMMA system is the ideal solution as it allows same-day application, and combined with Kemperdur AC Finish will ensure the balconies are safe, aesthetically pleasing and exceptionally durable.

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