​Contact Us: +27 83 226 5599
BUILD ANYTHING FAST
FAQ
We have compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions to assist you with the Roofix process. Please contact us here if you have any further questions.
01
What is Roofix?
Roofix is a formwork for concrete.
02
What is it made of?
The raw material for Roofix is 0.70mm thick and 500mm wide cold rolled steel strip with technical specifications equivalent to DIN 1623 (Part 1) ST12.
03
What are Roofix dimensions?
Roofix is produced in sheets, 810mm (approx.) wide, with lengths between 1m and 7m (according to order) - cut to centimeter precision.
04
Is Roofix only used for the construction of concrete floors?
No. Roofix has evolved during the course of time to the extent that it is now present in nearly all areas of concrete construction. These include the construction of all types of concrete floors, walls, staircases, foundations, pools, storage tanks, bridges, canals, tunnels, and domes, to mention just a few!
05
Does Roofix play any roles in the mechanical strength of concrete structures?
06
Roofix (first generation) is used only as formwork although laboratory tests have shown considerable contribution towards the mechanical strength (particularly in bending) of concrete structures. However, there are drawbacks that prevent Roofix (first generation) from being included in structural calculations. The second generation of Roofix (currently undergoing tests for certification), will work as both formwork and reinforcement.
Considering the size of Roofix mesh, is there a risk of losing concrete juice (water and cement content) when vibrating or using high-slump self-compacting concrete?
07
There is very little risk of juice loss for wet concrete with slump values of about 6cm to 7cm. Consolidation of concrete slabs up to thicknesses of 8cm to 10cm must be carried out by hand tamping. When the concrete thickness exceeds 10cm, or when high-slump self-compacting concrete is used, there are at least three ways to prevent the loss of concrete juice.
How can we prevent the loss of concrete juice when vibrating the concrete or using high-slump concrete?
08
Either:
a) Cover Roofix with a thin layer of polythene sheet before placing the reinforcement mesh on top, or
b) Lay a thin (1cm to 2cm) layer of screed on top of Roofix and allow it to harden (this usually takes a few hours). The main concrete pour can commence without any worry of juice loss.
c) Attach bubble reflective insulation under Roofix and then carry out concreting in one go.
For each example, please ask for details to be sent to you.
Can Roofix be used as formwork for curved surfaces?
09
Yes. Unlike other types of concrete formwork, Roofix is very pliable. Therefore, complicated forms can be created with the minimum of effort and cost. Roofix is extensively used in the construction of domes and curved roofs.
What is the maximum thickness of concrete that can be poured on Roofix?
10
There is practically no limitation on the thickness of the concrete pour. As the thickness of the concrete increases, the distance between temporary supports decreases, allowing for the weight of the concrete and that of the workers who spread it, to be supported by Roofix.
What type of walls can be constructed with Roofix?
11
Numerous types of walls have been constructed with Roofix. These include partition walls, external walls (in concrete and metal structure buildings, including light steel frame or LSF), retaining walls, shear walls, parapets, storage and septic tanks, garden walls, decorative panels and tunnels (tunnelling shields and linings).
How is Roofix used for the construction of external walls in LSF buildings?
12
Usually the walls of LSF buildings are non-load-bearing as the LSF structure itself carries all the dead and live loads onto the foundation. The advantages of Roofix walls are in their finished costs and easy and speedy installation. Roofix walls are thin monolithic concrete surfaces that act like strong diaphragms. They do not sound hollow, they are not brittle, and most of all, they can be formed into almost any architectural shape and design. As far as plumbing and electrical wiring are concerned, most of the pipes and electric wires can be accommodated within Roofix walls. There is no need for additional space for the installation of thermal insulation as these are also located within Roofix wall cavities.
How is Roofix attached to LSF structures?
Regardless of whether Roofix is used in the construction of external walls or in composite concrete floors, it is easily attached to LSF structures by self-drilling screws. After the installation is complete, Roofix and the LSF structure form a single integrated body, increasing both the static and the dynamic performance of the whole structure.