What Is Mapetex Sel N?

Mapei Mapetex Sel N is a non-woven, macro-holed polypropylene reinforcement fabric used to strengthen flexible waterproofing membranes. Embedded between the two coats of a cementitious membrane such as Mapelastic, Mapelastic Smart or Mapelastic Turbo, it bridges cracks, absorbs structural movement and bonds the layers into one strong, long-lasting waterproof skin. It is the professional choice for waterproofing roofs, water tanks, swimming pools, terraces, balconies and bathrooms in Kenya. Available at Shabbiri Hardware, Ongata Rongai — call 0741 042484.

Mapetex Sel N is made from 100% continuous synthetic polypropylene fibres joined by needle-punch technology, giving it an open, macro-holed structure. When laid into a fresh coat of waterproofing membrane, the membrane passes through the holes and grips both faces of the fabric, so the reinforcement becomes fully integrated rather than sitting as a weak, separate layer. Because it is entirely synthetic, this waterproofing reinforcement fabric will not rot, rust or degrade — even under permanent damp or full immersion — making it ideal for tanks, pools and flat roofs.

Key Benefits

• Crack bridging: reinforces the membrane over cracks and joints so normal building movement does not tear the waterproof layer.
• Bonds the coats: locks the first and second membrane layers into one strong, monolithic sandwich.
• High tensile strength: strong in both directions (5.8 / 7.2 kN/m) with generous elongation to flex without splitting.
• Rot & rust proof: 100% polypropylene that will not degrade in constant damp conditions.
• Light & easy to use: just 80 g/m² and 0.7 mm thick — soft, foldable and simple to lay into corners and details.
• Versatile: suitable for roofs, tanks, pools, terraces, balconies, bathrooms and below-ground structures.

Technical Specifications

Where to Use Mapetex Sel N

• Flat & sloped roofs
• Water tanks & large containment basins
• Swimming pools
• Foundations & retaining walls
• Terraces & balconies
• Bathrooms & shower enclosures
• Roof gardens & planters
• Over cracks, joints & wall-floor corners

How to Install Mapetex Sel N — Step by Step

1. Prepare the surface. Make sure the substrate is sound, clean and free of dust, oil and loose material. Repair cracks and defects, and prime if the membrane system requires it.
2. Apply the first membrane coat. Spread a fresh 1–2 mm layer of your flexible waterproofing membrane (e.g. Mapelastic Smart or Mapelastic Turbo) over the area, using a trowel or roller.
3. Lay the fabric into the wet membrane. While the first coat is still fresh, roll the Mapetex Sel N onto it and press it in firmly with a flat-bladed trowel until it is fully wetted through, with no dry spots, air bubbles or wrinkles.
4. Overlap the strips. Where two pieces meet, overlap them by at least 5 cm both lengthwise and across, so there are no gaps in the reinforcement.
5. Apply the second membrane coat. Once the fabric is fully embedded, apply a second 1–2 mm coat over the top to completely cover the fabric, forming one continuous reinforced layer.
6. Cure & protect. Allow the system to cure as directed for the membrane used. Protect from rain, direct sun and traffic while it sets, then continue with tiling, flooding or backfilling.

Pro Tips for a Strong Reinforced Seal

• Always sandwich the fabric between two coats — never leave it exposed on the surface.
• Pay extra attention to corners, upstands, drains and pipe penetrations; cut the fabric to fit neatly.
• Work the trowel firmly so the membrane bleeds through the fabric holes and grips both faces.
• Keep overlaps to at least 5 cm — skimping here is where reinforced systems fail.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly does Mapetex Sel N do?

It is a reinforcing fabric that sits between the two coats of a flexible waterproofing membrane. It bridges cracks, ties the coats together and helps the waterproofing absorb building movement without tearing — giving a much stronger, longer-lasting seal.

Is it a waterproofing product on its own?

No — it is a reinforcement, not a waterproofer by itself. It must be used together with a flexible membrane such as Mapelastic, Mapelastic Smart or Mapelastic Turbo, embedded between the coats.

How much does one roll cover?

Each roll is 1 m wide by 25 m long, giving 25 m² of fabric. Allow for the 5 cm overlaps at the joins, so usable coverage is slightly less on complex areas.

Which membrane should I pair it with?

It works with Mapei's flexible cementitious membranes — Mapelastic, Mapelastic Smart and Mapelastic Turbo are the common choices for roofs, tanks, pools and wet rooms.

Will it rot or rust in a wet tank or roof?

No. It is 100% polypropylene, so it is completely rot-proof and rust-proof and stays stable under permanent damp and immersion.

Where can I buy Mapetex Sel N in Kenya?

It is stocked at Shabbiri Hardware — Magadi Road, Ongata Rongai, and our Tuala branch (past Nazarene University). Call 0741 042484 or 0745 554008 for price and advice, or order the matching Mapelastic membrane at the same time.

Buy Mapei Mapetex Sel N at Shabbiri Hardware

Get genuine Mapei waterproofing products and expert advice from your trusted hardware and construction chemicals supplier in Rongai, Nairobi and Kajiado County.

• Branch 1: Magadi Road, Ongata Rongai
• Branch 2: Tuala, Past Nazarene University
• Call / WhatsApp: 0741 042484 or 0745 554008
• Email: info@shabbirihardware.co.ke
• Website: www.shabbirihardware.co.ke