Performance claims alone aren't enough when specifying waterproofing systems. Architects, Engineers and Contractors need to be confident all products have been independently assessed, comply with New Zealand Building Code requirements and are fit for purpose in local conditions. That's why Fosroc ANZ's achievement of four BRANZ Appraisals for its Nitoproof waterproofing systems is such a significant milestone.

The independent appraisals cover both internal wet areas and external above ground applications for Nitoproof® 410 and Nitoproof® 810, providing specifiers and contractors with greater confidence when selecting waterproofing solutions for everything from showers, bathrooms and laundries through to balconies, podium decks and roof areas. More importantly, they reinforce Fosroc ANZ's ongoing investment in the New Zealand market and commitment to delivering waterproofing systems that have been independently verified for local conditions.

Nitoproof 410

Nitoproof 810

What is a BRANZ Appraisal?

Issued by the Building Research Association of New Zealand, a BRANZ Appraisal is one of the country's most respected independent assessments of building products.

BRANZ Appraisals are widely recognised throughout the New Zealand construction industry as a trusted benchmark for product performance, compliance and fitness for purpose.

"It's like an independent certification that tells architects and specifiers the product will do what it says it's going to do," says Fosroc ANZ Product Segment Specialist, Colin Picton. "It gives them confidence because the independent assessment has been carried out here in New Zealand."

More than a simple product test

Achieving a BRANZ Appraisal involves considerably more than sending a product away for testing. 

Each appraisal evaluates product performance alongside manufacturing quality systems, quality assurance procedures, technical documentation, installation guidance and the evidence supporting every performance claim to determine whether the system is fit for purpose in New Zealand conditions.

"It's much more than simply rolling out the product and doing some performance testing," Colin explains. "They really go into depth. They look at the technical information, the installation details, your manufacturing quality systems, whether production comes from an accredited source and all the supporting documentation. It's a complete assessment of the whole offering."

Each BRANZ Appraisal is supported by a comprehensive technical document detailing where the waterproofing system can be used, how it should be installed and maintained, expected durability, relevant building code requirements and the evidence supporting the assessment.

Building on an already rigorous foundation

The BRANZ Appraisals build on an already robust framework of independent verification of Fosroc ANZ products.

Both Nitoproof systems have already been independently tested to the relevant Australian/New Zealand Standards, while the manufacturing facilities supplying the products operate under internationally recognised ISO 9001 quality management systems, demonstrating rigorous quality assurance and manufacturing processes.

"We've already invested heavily in independent testing," says Fosroc ANZ Technical and Specification Service Manager, Phil Jones. "BRANZ builds on that by looking closely at our manufacturing quality systems and quality assurance procedures."

The BRANZ process took more than a year to complete and involved extensive technical review, independent evaluation and ongoing assessment before the appraisals were issued.