WATERPROOFING technology has evolved considerably in recent years. While membrane performance remains fundamental, successful waterproofing depends on much more than the physical properties of the membrane itself. Correct technology selection, jointing, detailing, compatibility between system components and installation quality all contribute to the long-term performance of the building envelope.
For Zylog GreenShield, this system-based approach is becoming increasingly important as the company expands its presence across the GCC and works with customers on a growing range of roofing, below-grade and infrastructure applications.
“Different parts of a structure are exposed to very different conditions, and there is no single waterproofing technology that is ideal for every application,” says Mohamed Cherif, General Manager - GCC Region, Zylog GreenShield. “Our approach is, therefore, not simply to supply a membrane. We look at the application, the exposure conditions, the installation methodology and the critical details surrounding the membrane. Ultimately, the performance of waterproofing depends on the complete system.”
Engineering below-grade protection
Below-grade waterproofing is among the most demanding areas of a building, particularly because access for future repair can be extremely difficult once construction is completed, he points out.
Zylog GreenShield’s below-grade portfolio includes HDPE pre-applied and post-applied waterproofing membranes, together with dedicated tapes and detailing accessories.
Greenshield’s mechanically fastened TPO single-ply roofing membranes.
Pre-applied fully bonded systems are designed to form an integral bond with freshly poured concrete, creating a continuous waterproofing barrier around the structure. High puncture resistance, resistance to hydrostatic pressure and control of lateral water migration are particularly important considerations for foundations, basements, retaining structures, podiums and other below-ground applications.
Post-applied HDPE systems, meanwhile, are installed directly onto the completed concrete structure and incorporate a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer to provide continuous bonding between the membrane and the substrate. They provide an effective solution for waterproofing accessible concrete surfaces such as basement walls, podiums and other below-grade structures where the membrane is applied after the structural concrete has been completed.
The HDPE range also incorporates different jointing technologies, including adhesive-based systems and sand-coated membranes with heat-weldable selvedges, supported by dedicated tapes and detailing accessories. This allows the membrane, overlaps and critical details to be addressed as part of the overall waterproofing system.
Zylog GreenShield has also expanded its portfolio with FPO-based waterproofing solutions, providing an additional synthetic membrane technology for demanding below-grade applications.
Extending waterproofing solutions with EVA
GreenShield’s portfolio also includes EVA waterproofing membranes, providing a flexible and durable solution for applications such as tunnels, underground structures, landscaping, water features, swimming pools and reservoirs. The technology further broadens GreenShield’s range of synthetic waterproofing solutions, allowing different membrane systems to be considered according to the specific application and project requirements, according to the company.
From substructure to roofing
The same philosophy extends above ground. For roofing applications, GreenShield has developed a broad range of TPO single-ply roofing membranes, including reinforced, non-reinforced and fleece-backed configurations designed for different roofing systems and installation methods.
TPO roofing combines flexibility and mechanical performance with heat-welded seams, allowing individual sheets to form a continuous waterproofing layer across the roof.
Here again, GreenShield’s approach extends beyond the membrane itself. Depending on the project, a roofing assembly may involve the structural deck, vapour control layer, thermal insulation, separation or protection layers, membrane attachment and a wide range of perimeter and penetration details.
Zylog GreenShield also offers the TPO green roof system.
“Roofing should be considered as a complete assembly,” says Cherif. “Membrane selection is important, but so are the substrate, insulation, attachment method, wind-uplift requirements, seam quality and detailing. All these elements contribute to the performance and durability of the finished roof.”
GreenShield’s TPO development programme includes reinforced membranes for conventional roofing applications, non-reinforced membranes for detailing requirements and fleece-backed solutions for adhered systems.
The portfolio also includes dedicated membranes for specialised applications, including potable-water containment.
Managing movement and complex details
Waterproofing continuity becomes particularly challenging where structures are designed to accommodate movement. GreenShield’s portfolio, therefore, extends to TPE expansion-joint systems, designed to provide flexible waterproofing across construction and movement joints when used together with compatible bonding systems.
The company sees such accessories as an important part of its broader system philosophy, particularly for complex infrastructure, basement and podium applications where membrane systems frequently interface with joints, penetrations and structural transitions.
GreenShield heads to Big 5 Global
Zylog GreenShield will bring this system-based approach to Big 5 Global 2026, which is taking place from November 23 to 26 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, showcasing its synthetic waterproofing and roofing technologies across below-grade, roofing and specialised applications.
“Big 5 Global provides an excellent platform to engage with consultants, contractors, applicators and partners from across the region and demonstrate how our different technologies come together to provide waterproofing solutions from substructure to roof,” says Cherif.
The company will be present at Stand A361 in Hall 8.