Istanbul Technical University

The roof of Yildiz Technical University's massive campus had deteriorated over the years and water leaks had started to appear. This situation was causing both structural damage and negatively affecting the education of students. At this point, we stepped in to provide a permanent solution to this problem. The main goal of the project was to provide water insulation on the entire 1000 square meter roof, protecting the building from external factors and ensuring its longevity. Before starting the project, we analyzed the current condition of the roof by conducting a detailed inspection. Existing coatings and damaged areas on the surface were identified. Then, we conducted a meticulous research to select the most suitable materials. We preferred epoxy primer, pure polyurea, and aliphatic paint, which offer high-performance and long-lasting solutions. Epoxy primer would play a critical role in preparing the surface for polyurea application. By penetrating the concrete surface perfectly, it would ensure better adhesion of the polyurea and strengthen the ground. Pure polyurea, with its superior waterproofing properties and high elasticity, would perfectly protect the roof against water leaks. Finally, aliphatic paint would extend the life of the polyurea with its resistance to UV rays and provide an aesthetic appearance. Our application process consisted of carefully planned steps. First, we roughened and cleaned the concrete surface by grinding it with a diamond-tipped grinding machine. This process ensured that the epoxy primer adhered better to the surface. Then, we applied the epoxy primer evenly to the surface and waited for it to dry. After the epoxy primer dried, we applied 2 mm thick pure polyurea by spraying. Thanks to the rapid curing property of polyurea, the project was completed in a short time. Finally, we applied aliphatic paint to give the roof an aesthetic appearance and strengthen its protection against UV rays. When the project was successfully completed, the roof of Yildiz Technical University was completely waterproofed and ready to serve seamlessly for many years. Students and faculty members would now be able to continue their education without worrying about water leaks. This project became one of the best examples of how permanent solutions can be produced with the right material selection and meticulous application.