For us, customer is always at the centre when we suggest any solution.

We have developed a two component polyurethane -polyurea hybrid which are high.

- Sanjay Bahadur, CEO, Pidilite Industries

Could you enlighten us on some of the trends driving innovation in the waterproofing industry?

Post Covid, we are bound to experience changes in the waterproofing segment. Such changes
will happen in the type of solutions, new methods of applications and adoption of new technologies. For example - one of the most important trends which will pick up post-Covid is finding the waterproofing solution which needs less manpower. There will be increased demand for solutions which are less labour intensive and conform to all protocols of safe application (social distancing etc.). One of the impacted segments will be labour intensive traditional waterproofing method of Brick Bat Coba, which is not a globally accepted method. This method could be replaced with a light-weight concrete system which can be used to make slopes and use coating solutions. Innovation will happen in this direction for sure.

Another shift will be in the method of application. If we look from the mechanisation perspective - spray-based systems will be encouraged, be it for plastering or for waterproofing. So, the application method will also become a driving factor to adopt the innovative technologies.

Post-Covid the construction technology will change as far as affordable housing is concerned. There will be a surge in pre-cast technology. This will also lead to adoption of sealants, grouts and suitable coatings. So, a complete package of waterproofing solution for pre-cast system will be adopted first which will further push the acceptability faster. Pidilite has already developed such solutions and as a market leader we are consistently innovating to meet emerging needs from construction industry.

Is there a shift towards environmentally friendly products and solutions, especially low VOC products?

The trend for environment friendly products and solutions has been there, irrespective of Covid. We need to provide products and solutions wherein we are protecting buildings from getting heated. So apart from low VOC, it is important that we protect the building from water and heat. Besides there is wide spread use of manufactured sand as a replacement to natural sand due to environmental reasons. We have introduced a special product to meet this need.

What new waterproofing developments in your company are you excited about?

Pidilite has the widest range of portfolio in waterproofing products and solutions. We are developing new products and continuously innovating to address any challenges in the waterproofing segment.

I am really excited about the recent development of range of two component polyurethane -polyurea hybrid which are high end waterproofing systems. We have developed it in-house for premium buildings and infrastructure.

Owners and contractors often seek a bargain when comparing waterproofing materials forgetting the fact that different solutions / materials can produce different results.

As an organization we believe in producing consistent products. For any particular application, we offer advice keeping in mind the best interest of the user and the consumer. From pricing perspective, we do not face such challenges. Our products may be slightly on the premium side but that comes with the quality consistency, better service, manufacturing technologies behind the product.

What are the trends in below-ground waterproofing?

The recent trend in the last 3-5 years has been the higher adoption of HDPE membranes in the basement and self-adhesive bitumen membranes for retaining walls. Indian Standard code has now been printed which will push for suitable technologies to be adopted. There is a lot of potential in hybrid membranes and bonded to concrete whether chemically or mechanically, will find its acceptance in the Indian market.

What are the key factors in the selection of a waterproofing system?

This is a very complicated subject because for different surface area there are different factors like - rainfall, level of water table, depth of foundation etc. which needs to be considered to suggest the right solution. Span of construction, size of roof, insulation need etc. also play a vital role in this decision making.

We have Dr. Fixit Advisory Centre where consultants and contractors can approach us to get suggestion and consultation about the best solution suitable for them. For large projects we have a dedicated team that engages with the consultants, understands their requirements and provides the right solutions. For us, customer is always at the centre when we suggest any solution.

How does the trend look like in remedial waterproofing?

In many metros, two solutions have found great acceptance in remedial waterproofing. Firstly, the injection grouting for below ground leakages and secondly, acrylic & PU coatings on the roof. There are lakhs of satisfied customers who have already adopted these methods.

What types of waterproofing products does Pidilite offer?

We offer all ranges of waterproofing solutions which is suitable for building a small house to building the tallest building in India, infrastructure, industries etc.

To what extent the current crisis has impacted the construction chemicals industry?

Overall construction activities are slow. This has impacted all concerned companies including ours.  The current demand is lower. However, I think, going forward the industry will turn around. The government will spend money on construction which will revive the industry. The inherent need of housing is obviously still there.

What are the major challenges that you have been facing in today's context?

Currently, in this crisis we are facing lack of labourers. They have migrated back to their native places. However, I think when the situation normalizes in a few months people will come back in search of jobs for sustenance. 

As a country we do not have enough trained applicators across the country. This is something we as an organization are committed to developing. We are continuously training the applicators in all geographies. This is a major initiative which the organization is driving.

Please brief us on the growth drivers?

Going forward, two factors will be the growth drivers - firstly, controlling the Covid situation and secondly, the government pumping money on construction. Thereafter the industry will respond positively.

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