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Can someone please explain why they paint buildings black here when under construction and what the substance is?

Many thanks

Probably to keep the construction workers inside nice and warm!!

its probably bitumum (water proofing). they sometimes use it to seal the roofs of buildings to prevent water damage when it rains, as normally all the drains are blocked and the water sits on the roof and doesn't drain.

they also use it at ground level around the base of villas and foundations to prevent groundwater and salt seepage.

I thought it was because black was cool....

Liban wrote:I thought it was because black was cool....

Sounds much more believable!!!

Black bitumen paint to stop water and damp going through it?? That almost sounds like forward planning!!!
Never gonna happen in Dubai. It's gotta be because it looks nice!!

They cover the black up with tiles, glass etc it;s just a prep stage

Also don't laugh about the wet and damp - the greening of the UAE is with the aim to encourage rain

the_zooter wrote:Probably to keep the construction workers inside nice and warm!!

ya the black stuff is sort of an asphalt material that is used for insulation