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[February 2005]
CERAM Experts Help Commercial Success
Tests carried out by CERAM’s Building Technology (CBT) Division have helped a great idea become a commercial success.
Experts at CERAM were asked to test TDP’s Mortar FleeceTM, which is the first product to be specifically designed to prevent damage to mortar in newly-laid brickwork.
They instigated trials at independent sites in the UK, which they followed up with laboratory tests, to determine the exact level of protection against frost and heavy rain, as well as hot and windy conditions. The tests were carried out with two identically built brick walls, one protected with Mortar FleeceTM and the other with no protection.
Dr Andrew Smith, of CBT explained; “The use of Mortar FleeceTM, in all conditions tested, shows a distinct benefit over lack of protection. Mortar FleeceTM offers protection and ease of use in the majority of weather conditions experienced in the UK, and can minimise intrinsic defects that result from frost damage, saturation of the brickwork and cavity fill, and the reduction in mortar strength resulting from a loss of moisture from the mortar due to warm, dry and windy conditions.”
TDP Mortar FleeceTM is a strong, but lightweight, breathable fabric, with an integral waterproof strip to prevent water, snow or debris penetrating wall cavities. It is relatively low cost as it can potentially save contractors a huge amount in mortar costs that would normally be lost to damage from the elements.
The results of the research have proved popular with contractors, as since TDP Mortar FleeceTM has been made widely available through merchants, sales have surpassed all expectations.
Tim Blackman of TDP commented; “We always believed that the Mortar FleeceTM would prove to be a useful and popular product for builders, but having the confirmation from CBT has given our product true credibility in the market place.”
For more information about CERAM Building Technology, please telephone +44 (0)1782 764444 or visit www.ceram.com/building
ENDS