May 13, 2008: LATICRETE International, Inc, a global leader in the manufacturing of innovative systems for the installation of ceramic tile and stone, supplied the award-winning architectural firm PTW with LATICRETE® System materials for the waterproofing and the pool and deck tile installation at the Beijing National Aquatics Centre, also known as the Water Cube. The National Aquatics Centre will host all Olympic swimming and diving events for the upcoming 2008 Summer Games.

The Water Cube, considered the most architecturally advanced venue built in recent history, was realized by the consortium of PTW Architects, China State Construction and Engineering Corporation, and the CSEC Shenzen Design Institute. LATICRETE supplied the waterproofing and setting materials system for the pools and decks, including one of its signature products LATICRETE 9235 Waterproofing Membrane.

A self-supported, concrete and steel structure, the Water Cube is not only a breathtaking visual; it also represents one of the most advanced sustainable venues in the world. The building’s structural design is based on the natural formation of soap bubbles in infinite to give a random, organic appearance. The exterior is clad with 634 ETFE panels. The gas-infused panels provide heat for the building and the pools, and 80 percent of all water used will be recycled from catchments on the roof, pool backwash and overland flows.

The LATICRETE Swimming Pool Installation System is globally proven, from the Sydney Olympic pools to the Water Cube in Beijing. Ultimately, it was selected in recognition of the Bethany, Connecticut-based firm’s long history in the manufacturing of high-quality, environmentally-friendly systems, world-class technical support, and the comprehensive LATICRETE System warranty. The LATICRETE technical services department, in collaboration with the Mainland China-based LATICRETE sales team, ultimately surpassed the previously specified competition with hard work and superior products during the process. The LATICRETE commitment to manufacturing environmentally-friendly products, mandated by the Olympics, was an important factor during the decision-making process.

In addition, one of the main products supplied for the 10,000 square meters of pools in the Water Cube, LATICRETE 9235 Waterproofing Membrane, provided peace of mind in the decision making process with over 45 years of successful installations on its resume.

LATICRETE also provided LATICRETE 226 Thick Bed Mortar mixed with LATICRETE 3701 Mortar Admix to level the water-resistant reinforced concrete substrate prior to applying the primary waterproofing membrane. For a tenacious bond with the pool tiles, LATICRETE 4237 Latex Additive was mixed with LATICRETE 211 Powder. To grout the tiles, LATICRETE 1500 Sanded Grout was mixed with LATICRETE 1776 Grout Admix, which will inhibit the growth of stain-causing mold and mildew with antimicrobial protection from Microban®.

In April of 2008, LATICRETE celebrated the grand opening of its first fully-owned plant outside of the US, LATICRETE (Shanghai) Building Material Co. LTD. The new state-of-the-art facility in Songiang, Shanghai, the largest metropolitan area in China, clearly signifies a long-term commitment from LATICRETE.

LATICRETE is a global leader in the manufacturing of tile and stone installation systems, known and trusted for industry leading innovation and expertise. For in-depth technical support and answers to your installation or application questions call toll free: 1.800.243.4788, ext 235, or outside the USA: +1.203.393.0010, ext 235, E-mail: support@laticrete.com. Comprehensive LATICRETE and industry information can be found on the web at: www.laticrete.com. LATICRETE, LATAPOXY, SpectraLOCK and the LATICRETE logo are registered trademarks of LATICRETE International, Inc.