The roof is one of the most important protective elements of a house – it protects it from heat loss and moisture, while also affecting its aesthetics and style. Up to 20-30% of heat can escape through a poorly insulated roof, which is why waterproofing is so important to protect the slope from mold and mildew, and thus from corrosion and loss of functionality. What is the best way to protect the roof and how does the waterproofing process work?
Why is roof waterproofing crucial in the fight against moisture and mold?
The roof is the main element of a building that is directly exposed to water. Condensed fog, frost, rain or snow all fall on the slopes and expose them to prolonged exposure to moisture. Destruction and corrosion caused by water can lead to damage to the roof, resulting in costly repairs or even replacement of the roofing and the entire structure. To prevent this, it is worthwhile to take care of proper waterproofing, that is, protection from moisture.
Even a small leak in the roofing can lead to leaks, and thus the development of mold or mildew on the walls. Prolonged exposure of wood to moisture leads to wood rot and thus the need to replace the roofing and trusses. The cost of such an investment is very high, so a better solution is to waterproof the roof – an effective protection against moisture, to which all roofs are exposed, especially flat ones.
The best roof waterproofing materials – what is worth choosing?
There are a number of materials available on the market for waterproofing a roof. One of the most popular is roofing paper, but specialists are now turning to more modern technologies. One of them is a quick-to-use and effective liquid membrane. This roof protection is formed from polyurethane resin, which takes on a uniform layer that is bonded to the substrate. This makes it resistant and very durable, even when the substrate is exposed to moisture (including standing water) for a long time, it protects and prevents leaks.
The liquid membrane does not corrode, and is also resistant to changing weather conditions – strong sunlight, low or high temperatures, severe frost. It can be used not only for roofs, but also balconies, terraces, basements or swimming pools. It is ideal for flat roofs. Its advantage is fast and uncomplicated application.
What are the advantages of liquid waterproofing?
Lack of waterproofing is a serious problem that leads to damage and corrosion. First of all, an inadequately protected or uninsulated roof leaks, with water running all the way down to the exterior and interior walls. This quickly leads to the formation of dangerous to health and unsightly mold and mildew. Cracks in the walls in winter and warping of the wooden elements of the roof trusses can happen. The use of liquid waterproofing virtually eliminates these risks and very quickly creates a uniform, smooth surface that is seamless and seamless.
Its main advantages are:
- protection against variable and harmful weather factors;
- long (even more than 20 years) protection,
- very strong sealing due to uniform surface,
- excellent mechanical strength and damage resistance,
- resistance to very high and very low temperatures and UV radiation,
- high flexibility.
Step by step: The roof waterproofing process by RS-MAL specialists
RS-MAL specialists perform a number of works, related to the roof structure, such as fireproofing painting of steel structures, roof painting (Silesia and other regions) or just roof waterproofing. The waterproofing process takes place in four very important steps:
Preparation of the roof surface
Before the actual waterproofing process begins, it is necessary to prepare the surface of the house. To do this, professionals make sure that it is clean, dry and free of any dirt. There should also be no sharp elements on the roof that can damage the materials. In flat roofs, it is additionally necessary to check the slopes.
Laying a layer of thermal insulation
Flat roofs need additional protection, so before they are covered with a waterproofing layer it is necessary to lay a layer of thermal insulation. This additional protection against heat loss and can be made of wool or polyurethane foam.
Installation of waterproofing
The actual waterproofing layer is applied to the roof surface thus prepared. In the case of a liquid membrane, the installation is carried out with special adhesives or mechanical fasteners. It is important to maintain the correct order of layers and the detailed joining of individual strips of material.
Quality control
Once the waterproofing work is completed, it is worth conducting a quality inspection. To do this, specialists check whether everything has been properly fixed and there is no visible damage to the materials. If irregularities have appeared, they can be removed or repaired right away.
