Unveiling the Durable Rooftop Pool at Jeddah's Hilton Garden Inn

The Hilton Garden Inn in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, has officially opened its doors, presenting a new luxury destination near the stunning Red Sea. Among its many attractions is a pivotal feature: the rooftop swimming pool. This installation poses significant design and performance challenges, especially concerning hydrostatic pressure and the potential risk of leaks affecting the guest rooms below.

To mitigate these risks, the Penetron System was selected for its advanced crystalline waterproofing properties. According to Sam Annous, the Director at Penetron Middle East, while traditional membrane systems offer ease of installation, they come with long-term risks, including staining and damage caused by potential breaches.

A Cutting-Edge Waterproofing Approach

The project required a guaranteed waterproof solution for the pool without relying on a surface membrane. The design team opted for an integral waterproofing method, where three specific Penetron products work in synergy:

1. PENETRON ADMIX: This product is mixed directly with the concrete at the batching plant, transforming it into a self-healing, waterproof material. This admixture effectively resists chlorides and chemical damage, ensuring the longevity of the structure.
2. PENEBAR SW45: These swellable waterstop strips, when combined with PENEBAR PRIMER, secure all construction joints and penetrations—the most vulnerable areas of any water-retaining structure, preventing leaks from becoming a reality.
3. PENETRON slurry and PENECRETE MORTAR: Used to fill in localized cracks and repair tie holes, these materials ensure a smooth, defect-free finish.

When exposed to moisture, PENETRON ADMIX triggers a reaction with calcium hydroxide and water that leads to the formation of crystal structures within the concrete. This process seals capillaries and handles cracks as they occur, reacting automatically to new sources of moisture. The end result is a material resistant to hydrostatic pressure, thus negating the need for any additional surface layer that could be compromised over time.

After the pool was filled and put through stringent testing, it was confirmed that the underlying structural walls remained dry with no signs of leakage. This proves that the integrated waterproofing system has succeeded in functioning without the need for a traditional membrane.

A Look Ahead

The Hilton Garden Inn in Jeddah stands as a beacon of luxury hospitality, now equipped with a robust rooftop pool that prioritizes safety and performance. This project marks yet another successful implementation of the Penetron System in the region, enhancing the reliability of concrete structures in high-stress environments.

Sam Annous emphasizes the growing acceptance of this technology in the local market, showcasing that durable solutions are in high demand as the hospitality sector continues to evolve. The Penetron Group, known for its innovative construction products, remains dedicated to providing support and expertise for concrete waterproofing and repair solutions worldwide.

For further details or inquiries about Penetron's waterproofing solutions, visit penetron.com or their Facebook page.

In conclusion, the Hilton Garden Inn's rooftop pool exemplifies modern engineering and design, promising a unique experience for guests while safeguarding the structure through advanced waterproofing technology. A true testament to the importance of innovation in the hospitality industry.