Waterproofing Solutions for Airport Roof Structures: Lessons from the Tan Son Nhat T3 Terminal Incident

On May 24th, during a sudden heavy downpour in Ho Chi Minh City, the roof of Tan Son Nhat International Airport’s Terminal T3 experienced a serious water leakage issue. Rainwater escaped from a faulty joint on the roof, pouring directly onto the terminal floor. This incident serves as a powerful reminder of the critical importance of waterproofing and effective drainage systems in major infrastructure projects.

 

 

What Caused the Leak at Terminal T3?

 

According to Mr. Nguyen Duc Toan, Deputy General Director of Hancorp (representative of the contractor consortium), the issue originated from a vertical drainage pipe joint with a loose gasket. Under heavy rainfall, water pressure in the pipe increased dramatically, causing water to escape forcefully through the compromised joint and spill into the terminal within minutes.

 

From a technical standpoint, pipe joints, penetration points, and roof-to-equipment connections are often the weakest links in waterproofing systems, susceptible to wear, movement, and weathering without specialized treatment.

 

The Professional Waterproofing Solution: Triflex ProDetail

 

To prevent similar issues and ensure long-term durability, Triflex ProDetail offers a specialized waterproofing solution ideally suited for complex roof details like vertical drainage joints, ventilation bases, and pipe penetrations.

 

Key Advantages of Triflex ProDetail:

  • Superior waterproofing: Seamless membrane forms a tight, durable seal to prevent any water ingress.
  • Excellent adhesion: Bonds reliably to metals, concrete, bitumen, and various construction materials.
  •  UV and weather resistance: Maintains performance under harsh environmental conditions.
  • Cold-applied system: Fast, safe application without heat, minimizing downtime and operational disruption.
  • Proven in Europe and large-scale infrastructure: Triflex, a German brand with over 40 years of experience, is trusted in critical waterproofing projects across the globe.

 

In large-scale facilities such as airport terminals—with high foot traffic and continuous operations—investing in high-performance waterproofing systems is a must. Triflex ProDetail addresses typical weak points effectively, reducing long-term maintenance costs and extending structural lifespan.

 

VIVABLAST – The Exclusive Distributor of Triflex in Vietnam

 

VIVABLAST is proud to be the exclusive distributor of Triflex in Vietnam, offering both product supply and full-service application through a team of experienced technicians. We have successfully executed many complex waterproofing projects for industrial roofs, commercial buildings, and key infrastructure across the country.

 

Learn more about the Triflex product range HERE.

 

Contact us today for expert consultation on Triflex ProDetail waterproofing solutions tailored to your business needs.