The difference between tissue-faced and foil-faced thermal insulation boards is in which type of single ply membrane solution is most appropriate to be installed in contact with them, and the way in which those membranes are attached. The type of facing also affects the overall thermal performance of the insulation board. The difference between theRead more

A walkway membrane should be used on a single ply flat roof when regular foot traffic, which could damage the waterproofing covering, is expected. It should be installed at roof access points, along designated foot traffic routes, and to areas where access is required (e.g. for plant maintenance, rooflight cleaning, or regular general roof maintenance).Read more

The recommendations for installing roof-mounted plant and M&E equipment on a single ply flat roof vary depending on the size of the equipment and the way it needs to be supported. In selecting an appropriate solution, consideration should be given to future access to the membrane beneath the plant for remedial works and inspections, withoutRead more

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 aRead more

The minimum upstand height for a single ply membrane flat roof is 150mm. This should be measured from the top of the finished roof level, and is designed to provide comprehensive waterproofing protection at abutments and around penetrations like drainage pipes. It is critical to achieve the minimum upstand height at the same time asRead more

Maintenance of a single ply flat roofing system is essential for achieving ongoing performance and life expectancy, and ensuring the validity of the roof system guarantee. Appropriate care starts with basic protection against damage, whether by point loading, solvent spillage, or sharp objects such as nails, fixings, trims, glazing panels etc. Roof maintenance while on-siteRead more

A typical single ply membrane flat roof system can be expected to achieve a service life of at least 30 years. Care should be taken to distinguish between the durability of the single ply membrane by itself, and the expected service life of the flat roof system incorporating the membrane. As the components are exposedRead more

The number and location of rainwater drainage outlets for a flat roof system is calculated using BS EN 12056-3. The calculation takes into account rainfall intensity, the roof form, and the use of the building. Outlets can be external downpipes served by gutters, or internal downpipes. National building regulations also set out requirements for roofRead more

The thermal transmittance, or U-value, of the complete roof system is calculated in accordance with established international standards. For the majority of flat roofs – built up in a series of material layers, each of a consistent thickness and performance – the most appropriate calculation type is the ‘combined method’ detailed in BS EN ISORead more

IKO is sponsoring Kieran Smith, son of Rob Smith who works at the Clay Cross Pre-fabrication Department. Kieran is a young cyclist making a name for himself on a National level. He first started training as a tri-athlete just before his 9th birthday. In less than a year’s time, as a junior athlete, he wasRead more