Waterproofing Membrane in Zoo Enclosure | Elevate EMEA

RubberGard EPDM waterproofing membrane from Elevate EMEA was used in the design of an okapis zoo enclosure. Situated at the Branféré Animal and Botanical Park, visitors can discover animals in semi-freedom. One specific species that cohabit in the 45-hectare forest is two okapis. The okapis is an endangered animal, native to the Congo, and shares its habitat with antelopes, wattled cranes, and dik-diks. The okapis recently joined the Branféré Animal and Botanical Park as part of its endangered species development plan and required an enclosure to suit their needs.

Enclosure Design

The new enclosure was designed by Benoît Morin architects. The building consists of a technical room, lodges for the animals, and an observatory for visitors. The building is built with an organic architecture that blends harmoniously into the surrounding wooded environment. The structure is made of wood and the shed-type roofs mimic the fir trees planted around the site. The design ensures the interior receives natural light all year round while not becoming covered by fallen leaves.

Waterproofing Solution

The waterproofing was overseen by the authorized Holcim Building Envelope installer CEI 56. They convinced the architects to select the RubberGard EPDM roofing membrane as it offered:

• High durability
• High UV resistance
• Sustainability and energy efficiency
• Ease of maintenance

The roof is designed with no gutters to ensure the dead leaves are evacuated at the same time as the rainwater. The RubberGard EPDM membrane does not release toxic substances or slowly decay as a material meaning the water that flows from the room holds no risk to the animals or causing pollution.

Installation of Membrane

The thickness recommended for the installation was 1.5 mm as it guaranteed high resistance to punctures from branches falling. The 550 sqm of Rubbergard EPDM was installed in just under two months. Unlike other sealing systems, EPDM is less sensitive to weather conditions during installation. The membrane was fully adhered to the sloped wooden structure and mechanically fixed on the perimeter. The result is a smooth finish.

Project Details