Fibertex Nonwovens SA – prestigious rooftop garden in Gauteng

The joy of greener rooftops

Fibertex Nonwovens SA – leaders in the development of a wide range of nonwovens, geosynthetics and performance-based materials – is playing a major role the design and development of a new rooftop garden in Gauteng.

This rooftop garden project has been designed to deliver an environmentally sustainable solution that is practical, aesthetically pleasing and easy to maintain.

“Our current installation – on the roof of a prestigious hotel’s new reception and banqueting buildings – encompasses advanced geosynthetic materials to ensure efficient drainage necessary for healthy plant growth,” explains Lia Thandeka Collatz, Sales Executive, Fibertex Nonwovens SA. “Apart from contributing to a more sustainable environment, this green roof installation reduces storm water runoff, improves air quality and also contributes to better sound insulation and temperature control, thus saving energy.

“This new green roof project showcases the successful combination of two key Fibertex products – Polytex PT 115 and Cavidrain S8U. The lightweight Polytex-Cavidrain drainage system represents a robust and effective solution for achieving optimal drainage and substrate stability in green roof applications. Traditional drainage methods, like gravel layers, can add significant weight to roof structures and may be susceptible to clogging over time.

“By combining the filtration and separation properties of , with the high-flow drainage capacity of Cavidrain, effective drainage is achieved to ensure optimal soil moisture levels and prevent waterlogging. This durable system delivers long-term performance, minimises maintenance requirements and supports the development of lightweight, healthy and sustainable green roofs.”

Polytex, a woven geotextile, serves a dual purpose within this green roof installation. Firstly, it acts as a filter, preventing fine particles from the growing medium from migrating into the Cavidrain drainage layer.

This filtration function is crucial for maintaining the long-term performance of the drainage system, preventing clogging and ensuring consistent water flow. Secondly, Polytex functions as a separation layer, maintaining a distinct boundary between the growing medium and the drainage layer. This separation material prevents the mixing of materials, preserving the integrity of each layer, which is particularly important in extensive green roofs with shallow substrate depths.

Cavidrain is a lightweight, modular drainage system designed for efficient water removal. The structure of this material creates a network of interconnected channels that facilitate rapid drainage, preventing waterlogging and promoting healthy root development. The modularity of Cavidrain allows for easy installation and adaptability to various roof geometries and green roof designs

Fibertex woven geotextile products are manufactured using virgin polypropylene fibrillated tapes, ensuring durability, strength and resistance to environmental factors. The company’s commitment to environmental responsibility – by minimising harmful effects on the environment – is evidenced by ISO9001:2015 certification.

Through the local Fibertex team’s flexible geosynthetic solutions, which are tailored to meet specific needs and preferences, cities around Africa are achieving green roof gardens that contribute to greener, more sustainable built environments.

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Fibertex Nonwovens SA – leaders in the development of a wide range of nonwovens, geosynthetics and performance-based materials – is playing a major role the design and development of a new rooftop garden in Gauteng. This prestigious rooftop garden project has been designed to deliver an environmentally sustainable solution that is practical, aesthetically pleasing and easy to maintain.

Fibertex geosynthetic products are suitable for new buildings and retro-fit projects, providing numerous benefits, including higher property values, aesthetic charm, rainwater management and temperature regulation. Rooftop gardens also reduce air pollutants that cause smog and when planted with indigenous flora, roof gardens provide important habitats for birds and insects.

For further information Lia Thandeka Collatz, Sales Executive, Fibertex Nonwovens South Africa

Landline:+27 11 965 0205

Mobile: +27 79 124 2646

Email: LTCO@fibertex.com

Website: www.fibertex.com