Flat roofs

The elastomeric membrane, also known as modified bitumen membrane

The double-layered elastomeric membrane is a practical and effective material for those who are used to doing construction and repair work on their own. It suits for the construction of new houses, as well as for the reconstruction of roofs on old houses.

This is a roll-type material, on both sides of which there is an adhesive strip with polyethylene protection. This allows the installation of the material without any glue.

Make sure the contractors you hire for such job have the proper insurance policies because installing this material is a fire hazard. Also, note that some contractors may occasionally skip sealing joints (for example by skylights or ventilators). This will seriously reduce lifecycle of the material.

You can also apply the membrane for resurfacing by heating up the older membrane, pushing in the remaining bits, and installing a new membrane over it. This will minimize waste and environment impact.

By creating a stone surface, the material does not peel off with time. The membrane retains its elasticity during severe frosts, which allows for installation work in the winter period at a temperature of -20 degrees Celsius. The covering guarantees a high level of durability. When using a wooden base or water-repellent plates in the combination with membrane, you get a roof, on which you can easily move without fear of cracking or failing.

TPO

TPO membranes are the last generation polymer material (based on thermoplastic polyolefins) for flat roofs. The seams of the membrane are fixed using welding machines and hot air. This material is used to install roofing systems similar to EPDM roofing systems, but it is claimed to have more esthetic look and to be easier to install. Thanks to the reinforcing layer (polyester net), the material is more resistant to mechanical stress and fire, but it less elastic. The polymer contains up to 30% polypropylene, which gives the membrane high chemical resistance.

Among other advantages it can be said that this material is the most environment-friendly and fully recyclable.

PVC membrane

PVC membrane is also an innovative waterproof material suitable for commercial, residential and industrial buildings. It is a single-layer type of roof covering, which is made from elastic polyvinyl chloride. Hot air welding guarantees integrity and total tightness. The necessary elasticity is achieved by the application of volatile plasticizers (up to 40%). As a result of the obtained elasticity, increases the temperature, water, fire and strength resistance.

EPDM

EPDM stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer and belongs to the group of polymer roofing waterproofing materials which are based on synthetic rubber – polymerized ethylene-propylene-diene-monomer and other polymer additives. In a nutshell it is a synthetic rubber.

The EPDM membrane is used for industrial and commercial buildings, waterproofing of underground structures, reservoirs, canals, – wherever it is necessary to reliably and quickly waterproof a large surface, at facilities that require durable and high-quality materials.

Tar and Gravel

This is multi-layered system for your roof. What is meant here is a sheet of felt that is enforced by asphalt. The multi layers serve the purpose of water barriers. However, for such kind of roof to remain efficient it is important to regularly check it for deteriorations (leaks, dried sheets, craters, dust or whether the sheet detaches from the surface, etc.).