Lafarge Africa Plc., a Nigerian building solutions company and member of Holcim Limited, has revealed the ‘Watershield’ cement, a new innovative product that the company says will pioneer a ‘new era’ in construction
Lafarge devised the solution after recognising that traditional cement and waterproofing solutions have long been plagued by issues of water damage, rust and seepage. These issues can cause deeper problems including comprising the integrity of structures and forcing the undertaking of costly remedial works.
The aim of addressing these challenges, led the company to design its Watershield cement solution which, according to the company, offers unmatched durability and superior water resistance to ensure longevity and enhanced resistance of buildings.
Indeed, initial reports of its use have been promising with Lafarge suggesting positive testimonials are already pouring in. “We’ve integrated Watershield Cement into our construction projects, and the results have been truly remarkable,” said Chukwuka Onyeka Charles of Charlope Nigeria Enterprises. “I like testing innovation, so I decided to put Water Shield Cement to the test. Three days ago, we tested it with casting and German floor. We poured five liters of water on the floor and we left it for one hour, when we came back the exact quantity of water was still there – none of it had seeped in.”
A moment of transformation for the construction industry
At the launch of the new product in Victoria Island, Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, GMD/CEO, Lafarge Africa Plc, remarked that the unveiling marks a “moment of transformation in the construction industry”. He continued by stating, “This product represents a safer, more sustainable built environment for current and future generations, offering peace of mind and significant savings in time and resources.’’
Also speaking at the event was Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, who matched Alade-Akinyemi’s pride around the solution. He remarked, “We hold the bragging rights that this product, like many other innovations, is first launched here in the State of Excellence! On behalf of the good people of Lagos State, I congratulate the management and the visionary team of Lafarge Africa, plc on the development of this superb product.”
Lafarge Africa is no stranger to developing innovative solutions for the construction industry. Last year, the company unveiled a new Eco Label to provide end-users with the opportunity to make greener choices and accelerate Nigeria’s carbon reduction journey.
