Objectives
The goals of the Simon Fraser University campus renovation were to provide a permeable solution that would be durable and usable for faculty, staff, and students.
Solutions
Permeability, durability, and usability were signaled as top priorities for Simon Fraser University’s paving renovation. Pavers provided multiple economic, environmental, and sustainable benefits over other competing systems.
Results
Using pavers, the Simon Fraser University community can enjoy a strong, puddle free, and attractive campus for years to come. John Wall, Architect AIBC, OAA, MRAIC, LEED AP, Principal, Public Design, “To address the project requirements, PUBLIC selected a drainable mortar system. Used widely in Europe for the past 40 years, this system uses an epoxy and birds-eye gravel, permeable matrix to create a bi-level draining mortar bed: Rainwater flows to surface drains as well as through the permeable mortar matrix to the membrane beneath. This system reduces ponding on low-slope structures and is rated to support vehicle loads. Finish tiles are fully supported and adhered with an epoxy that resists movement, freeze-thaw cycling, and degradation of the jointing materials (the campus plaza has an extensive number of joints with other buildings and hundreds of unique boundary conditions). A full-scale, in-situ mock-up of several short-listed roof assemblies was constructed and tested for loading and drainage performance. The final, selected assembly demonstrated the fastest drainage and drying times.”
Team & Location
Owner: Simon Fraser University
Designer: Public Architecture
Producer: ROMEX
Installer: Apex Granite & Tile