Although mastic asphalt is one of the world’s oldest construction materials, it can sometimes be perceived as a one-dimensional waterproofing product that is only available in a standard black finish. But like many long-lasting, tried and tested materials, mastic asphalt is being re-imagined as a highly relevant building material for today.
Mastic asphalt is an ideal building material for a whole range of construction applications, both new build and refurbishment projects, where a seamless, durable surface is required. It is commonly associated with roofing, tanking, paving and screeding projects due to its ability to offer total waterproofing protection, but several contractor members of the Mastic Asphalt Council (MAC) have noted an increase in mastic asphalt being specified for flooring projects.
Able to be laid over many different structural bases such as concrete, metal flooring and timber boarding, mastic asphalt offers a dust-free, seamless surface ideal for high traffic flooring applications.
MAC has seen a trend emerging of the use of mastic asphalt flooring incorporating terrazzo. Modern interpretations of terrazzo have been created by combining decorative stone chippings with mastic asphalt, which is then polished to create infinite possibilities in any design situation. Other finishes can also be created – matt or smooth – as opposed to the highly polished effect normally associated with terrazzo.
Mastic asphalt terrazzo offers the durability and distinctive features of terrazzo and consists of a traditional mastic asphalt base with a modern finish. Slip and skid resistance can be incorporated into the wearing course of the mastic asphalt.
Bell Asphalt has carried out an impressive mastic asphalt terrazzo flooring application at a multi-million pound private residence in London’s Mayfair. Mastic asphalt terrazzo was specified for a 120m2 refurbishment of the garage floor, due to its exceptional waterproofing properties and decorative terrazzo finish.
The existing floor was uneven so Bell Asphalt levelled the floor with a waterproofing mastic asphalt layer applied at 10-25mm and silver grey terrazzo was incorporated at 30mm, resulting in a highly decorative, hard-wearing finish able to withstand impact and abrasion from vehicles in the garage. Aside from the decorative finish, mastic asphalt terrazzo was specified by architects Nord Studio of Berlin due its exceptional durability, optimum fire rating and non-flammable properties (BroofT4 according to BS EN 13501-1).
As well as being low maintenance, seamless and easy to clean, mastic asphalt flooring is moisture and rodent resistant, rot proof and a proven radon and methane barrier. Mastic asphalt is also carbon neutral and 100% recyclable at the end of its useful life.
The Mastic Asphalt Council (MAC) is the trade association for the mastic asphalt industry in the UK. Representing more than 80 companies, MAC members include mastic asphalt manufacturers, specialist application contractors and associated suppliers of equipment and services. MAC can recommend experienced contractors to carry out mastic asphalt projects. Further information is available at www.masticasphaltcouncil.co.uk, e-mail: [email protected] or on Tel: 01273 242778.