When to overlay flat roofs with single ply membranes
Is it possible to overlay an existing flat roof with single ply? Mostly the answer is yes, but each project should be taken on its own merits. The fact that a roof looks in good condition should not be the basis of installing a new roof covering. There have been many instances where new materials […]
6 reasons to consider a rooftop SuDS solution
Making the most of your flat roof areas using a Rooftop SuDS (Sustainable Urban Drainage System) can make good sense when used in the correct application with the correct specification and installation. Rooftop SuDS are sometimes known as Blue Roofs which is in my opinion misleading terminology that implies that water is going to be […]
What products and materials are incompatible with single ply flat roof membranes?
Single ply flat roofing membranes are typically incompatible with other hydrocarbon-based materials, including bitumen-based based products, solvents, paints, and other rubber-based products. Ensuring chemical compatibility between the single ply waterproofing and other components is vital to the success of a single ply flat roofing system. Using a roofing system with a manufacturer-backed guarantee is a […]
Life expectancy of single ply membranes
Single Ply Membranes are often considered to be new technology when in fact the first single ply roofs were installed over 6o years ago. The membranes have evolved since then with the introduction of PVC membranes in the 1960’s, the latest generation using longer lasting Phathalate Plasticisers and the introduction of TPO’s in 1990s which […]
Pipe detailing in single ply roof installation
Love them or hate them, there is no getting away from the pipe detail! It’s not often a roof doesn’t contain one, especially on refurbishment projects. They come in all shapes and sizes from small handrail posts, all the way through to large duct type pipes. When installed well, they can finish the roof off […]
How to choose the right adhesives for single ply roofing
Why choose adhered single ply roofing systems? Adhered single ply roofing systems are particularly popular in the UK flat roofing market. They are chosen for a myriad of reasons such as achieving a more aesthetically pleasing roof finish, avoiding the need to predrill into a concrete roof deck or the need for several fixing and […]
Wind load on flat roofs
The calculation of wind loads on a roof is an essential part of the design process. The designer must ensure that the installed roof system is able to resist the wind load induced by a building’s geometry and location and that the correct calculation procedures are followed. The correct calculation methodology for UK Building Regulations […]
What is the fire rating of single ply membranes?
The fire rating of a single ply membrane is determined through standardised testing methods, which consider the complete flat roof system from the structural deck upwards. There are different fire ratings for construction products depending on what is being tested; for a flat roof system, the resistance of the roof to external fire exposure is […]
Are single ply flat roof membranes suitable for use on pitched roofs?
A single ply membrane can be used to provide the waterproofing finish for a pitched roof, and there is no limit on the slope of the roof for which it can be used. BS 6229:2018, the code of practice for flat roofs with continuously supported flexible waterproof coverings, even advises that many of its recommendations […]