Waterproofing System for Roofing
To get the most out of your new flat roof, you must install an effective waterproofing system for roofing. This will safeguard the structure’s long-term stability. Excessive exposure to the weather will result in rot and deterioration of the decking and insulation, substantially shortening the roof’s life. This can result in costly repairs or, in the worst-case scenario, the need for a completely new roof.
There are three primary techniques for waterproofing flat roofs. The application of these methods will vary according to the environment, the size of the roof, the budget, and the type of structure being weatherproofed.
Using Reinforced Bitumen Membranes to Weatherproof a Flat Roof
The most often utilized material for waterproofing flat roofs on residential properties is reinforced bitumen membranes. The procedure entails applying two or three layers of the material across the entire roof’s surface. These are then joined using hot bitumen.
The bitumen coating is then mixed with a polyester carrier to create a roll-formed waterproof material. Once made, this can be spread across the insulation (on a warm flat roof) or directly across the structural deck (on a cold flat roof).
Numerous ways exist for attaching the waterproof membrane to the roof:
Pour and Roll: While unrolling the layer of RBM across the roof, hot bitumen is poured out in front to glue the two together.
Torching: A particular form of RBM is burned using a gas torch in order to remove the requirement for bitumen glue. Precautions must be made to reduce the likelihood of a fire.
Cold Application: A cold adhesive is placed across the roof’s surface prior to unrolling the RBM slowly, making certain that the laps are likewise bonded with the same bonding solution.
Self-Adhesive: On the bottom of the RBM, a strong, high-tack adhesive with release paper is applied and rolled out onto the roof. After positioning the membrane, the release paper can be removed and the later bonded into place. This technique must be accompanied by a consistent rolling action. Smooth away any kinks or places that haven’t entirely adhered to the surface with a broom.
What is Liquid Waterproofing and How Does It Work?
Liquid waterproofing employs a unique coating to adequately weatherproof your roof system. This method is applicable to all types of roofing but is most popular on flat roofs.