Waterproofing a flat roof is of particular importance, due to its specific construction. In the case of a pitched roof, water ponding on its surface is impossible, for flat roofs it is a major threat. Why is waterproofing so important and what impact does it have on the structure and safety of the building?
Waterproofing of flat roofs – what is it and why is it important?
Flat roof is a structure, with specific parameters. There is a slight slope, of about 1%-3%. For this reason, they are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of moisture, rain or snow. Their ponding can lead to structural damage and leaks, and consequently even damage to the roof’s supporting structure. For this reason, the roof must be properly protected with proper insulation.
Performing proper waterproofing of a flat roof is important because:
- protects against moisture penetration into the roof structure and building;
- increases the durability and strength of the roof;
- helps protect the thermal insulation, preventing heat loss through the roof sheathing;
- helps protect the sheathing from corrosion.
How does the process of waterproofing flat roofs work?
To properly protect a flat roof from water, snow and moisture, the waterproofing process must be properly prepared and executed. It is not only the selection of high-quality materials that matters, but also the way in which the next steps are performed.
The first step is the proper preparation of the substrate. This is particularly important, since negligence could deteriorate the properties of the resulting protection. The work begins with a thorough cleaning of the roof in such a way that there are no leaves, dust or greasy stains on the surface, among others. If, after removing the dirt, the presence of cavities, cracks or other damage is found, they must be repaired. The surface must be uniform and smooth, because only then will proper adhesion of insulation materials be ensured. The last element of preparation is thorough drying.
Next, a primer should be applied, always to a thoroughly cleaned and dried surface. The use of primer has the effect of improving the adhesion of waterproofing materials, increasing the tightness and durability of the final layer of protection. Once the surface has been thoroughly primed, the application of waterproofing material can begin.
Special attention should be paid to the treatment of hot spots, which include all edges, corners, drains, chimneys, vents. Sometimes in their immediate vicinity, it will be necessary to use additional protective elements, such as gaskets.
Waterproofing the roof requires a leak test. Once the workmanship is complete, you need to visually inspect the roof surface for any damage, unevenness or other errors due to improper application after the final layer is applied. Then you still need to perform water tests, observing whether water is penetrating through the completed layer in any places.
Why is flat roof waterproofing crucial to the longevity of a building?
A lot depends on the proper execution of the protection layer. It is an investment in the safety and durability of any building with a flat roof. Roof waterproofing is therefore a key issue that cannot be underestimated. The layer helps protect the interior of the building from flooding, but also from moisture penetration. There doesn’t have to be a lot of water for a leak to lead to really serious problems, such as mold and mildew growth, or damage to electrical wiring.
In the long aspect of time, water and moisture acting continuously on the supporting structure will lead to the weakening of materials, not only wood, but also concrete or steel. Gradual but constant weakening of the structure can consequently even lead to deterioration of the object’s stability, so that it will begin to threaten the strength of the building.
The advantages of waterproofing analyzed through the prism of human safety are the most important, but it is also worth raising the issue of health safety. The developing problem of mold and mildew, which appear under the influence of moisture, carries negative consequences for the health of the building’s occupants.
Proper protection of flat roofs and their regular maintenance can protect not only the structure of the roof, but also the entire building. Therefore, every effort should be made to keep the waterproofing layer in excellent condition.
