Ignite 2021 Presentation
During our In-practice Presentation at Ignite Architects in July, the specifiers asked some excellent questions during the session… so we thought we’d share them – along with the answers from our Managing Director, Rodney Knight.
Enjoy the Q&A here:
IGNITE: How does the drain/overflow thing work?
AQUAKNIGHT: It’s confusing at first glance; but out of the box, the unit is either a drain or (with the inclusion of the overflow insert), an overflow. But not both at once. It cuts down on inventory for Trades and means a consistent product.
IGNITE: Those outlet hats are really good, where should I use them?
AQUAKNIGHT: On every overflow. An overflow is an early warning system, alerting the property manager that there is a blockage in the system, and to do something about it. If the outlet is blocked it is reasonable to assume that eventually the overflow will become blocked. When that happens rainwater may enter the building envelope.
Without the hat, rain enters the overflow outlet and drips from the soffit trim every time it rains. This is a problem because it trains people to ignore it. Overflow hats are not compulsory yet, but in our view should be.
IGNITE: Are these compatible with all membrane systems?
AQUAKNIGHT: Our entire range is compatible with all sheet membrane systems, as well as the hot-mix systems.
Wherever there is a membrane- that is where we live.
IGNITE: Where do I use the Stainless Steel outlets?
AQUAKNIGHT: These are Red-List free and Declare Label listed, so they are used on Living Building Challenge projects.
They are also compatible with the very-hot-mix liquid applied waterproofing systems that are used in specialised applications such as car parks.
IGNITE: Are these expensive?
AQUAKNIGHT: Even the best membrane system in the world has two big holes in them; this is where these outlets live. It is the highest risk area of the entire roof as all the water from the roof must flow over and through them.
Over the cost of the entire waterproofing system, we are cost effective. It is madness to compromise the entire installation with sub-standard outlets for the sake of a few bucks.