The roof is the fifth facade of a building. It protects the building's occupants and contents from the weather and other outside calamities. Those who invest in a flat roof expect peace of mind for a long time. It is best not to let that depend solely on a good choice of materials and quality workmanship. Periodic maintenance is important so that the structure can continue to perform all its intended functions throughout its life. Moreover, it offers the guarantee of a longer life of the roof waterproofing.
There are some factors that favorably affect the life of a flat roof. "Everything starts with thoughtful design, choosing quality materials and quality workmanship. Attention to detailing in the design helps prevent problems. For example, avoid details in gutters. Also design low-maintenance so that the roof can be accessed safely and maintenance can be done in a safe manner. For example, do not place PV panels up to the eaves. Read more about roof safety in the blog article on fall protection.
In terms of material selection, it is common practice in the flat roof sector to choose materials with a certificate of suitability for use (ATG). This gives you the assurance that the material has been tested and approved by external parties for its intended use. The correct roof construction is described in Technical Information 280. The detailing should be well thought out from the conception in order to avoid improvisations on the building site(see TV 244). If the subsequent execution is carried out with care, and the seam joints are an important point of attention, then you have a good starting point for a long service life," says Eddy Mahieu, Head of Technical Advice and animator of the TC Sealing Works at Buildwise.
Once installed, the materials are exposed to environmental factors: UV radiation, temperature differences, the impact of moisture, ice, pollution. Some materials are already more sensitive to these than others. "The older PVC roofs are a good example of this. Over time, plasticizers leave the material. This causes shrinkage in the sealing membranes and puts so much tension on the parts where there is no gravel ballast - such as the upstands - that the PVC seal can pull away from the wall and/or the water drain and be pulled out of the drains. These are the vulnerable parts that need extra attention during maintenance on older PVC roofs," says Roger Vandeweyer with Tectum Roofcomfort.
Drains and wall connections are vulnerable parts that need extra attention during maintenance.
"Each material has its specific lifespan. A product that on paper has a shorter lifespan will also show wear and tear faster. This is a consideration when choosing during the design phase. Depending on the roof construction and use, there are certain risks. There is a difference between a usage roof that you walk on every day and an unused roof," picks up Yves Rosier of Tectum Group .
The first problems that may arise are blockages caused by fallen leaves and branches. "They accumulate at the site of drains, preventing the smooth drainage of rain or melt water. When clearing the blockages, this can lead to high water pressure on the drain pipe, which can cause it to pop loose. Another phenomenon is the membrane shrinking over time. This shortens the web and the end seams begin to constrict. Over time, blistering can also occur in the gutters. Caulking joints require extra attention because they must be renewed regularly. Furthermore, vertical waterproofing can become loose and start to sag. In these places, water can make its way between the two-layer roof waterproofing or between the waterproofing and the vapor barrier. Finally, there is also traditional damage on pathways to roof installations, such as cracks or perforations," says Roger Vandeweyer. The latter can be easily remedied by installing roof tiles. (see photo above)
To prevent such defects from causing major problems, it is advisable to inspect the roof frequently. This is the essence of periodic flat roof maintenance. "The sooner a defect is noticed, the smaller the consequential damage remains. And this is possible when you inspect the roof at least twice a year," explains Yves Rosier. In addition, the risk of accidents is also reduced by removing loose debris or repairing loose cover stones in a timely manner.
"It's about more than avoiding the big problems," Eddy Mahieu continues. "Nowadays, you see more and more white or reflective waterproofing on flat roofs. To be effective, it requires periodic cleaning. The same applies when rainwater is recovered. Maintenance prevents the filters and cistern from becoming fouled too quickly. A recent and necessary evolution is the recycling or circular reuse of roofing materials. To keep those chances at the end of the life span flawless, regular maintenance and cleaning of the roof is very important. Some manufacturers guarantee the return of their roofing only when the owner can prove that the roof was periodically maintained. By the way, the most durable flat roof is the one with the longest lifespan. To that end, maintenance is crucial."
The most durable flat roof is one with the longest lifespan.
TV280 recommends cleaning the roof twice a year and a visual inspection once a year after such a cleaning. "Although that also requires a bit of common sense. The location of the building (wooded area), the age and condition of the roof may already require a more intensive approach," Roger Vandeweyer suggests.
The seal type also plays a role according to Eddy Mahieu: "A roof seal with slate flakes or granules requires a little more attention during the first year of life. The slate flakes or granules are applied in excess when manufactured, may become loose and then float or blow to the drainage points. It is also advisable to check the condition of the roof or ballast layers after extreme weather conditions, such as a spring or fall storm."
After extreme weather conditions, it is advisable to check the condition of the roof.
Such inspection and maintenance are generally done physically. Sometimes, though, advanced technologies can help detect leaks. Consider thermography or incorporating sensors to detect leaks very quickly or signal excessive snow loads.
Today, we are increasingly using our flat roofs as additional outdoor space, such as a green roof or roof terrace. "The downside of this is that the roof waterproofing is no longer easily accessible for maintenance. In such cases, we start from the plans to detect the places where the water drains. Those are even more important in such roofs to inspect properly. At best, those points are still accessible for inspection.
The essence of periodic maintenance of a flat roof, is to avoid small defects causing major problems.
Let's face it, few building owners or building managers go out to inspect the roof twice a year. However, as a good housekeeper, you are supposed to take on that task or entrust it to a partner through a maintenance contract. Otherwise, that can turn against you. "A contractor must offer a standard 10-year warranty on the work done. But if he can prove that a problem with the roof waterproofing is due to poor maintenance, the contractor does have legal grounds to evade his obligations within the 10-year liability. The insurance company can also turn off the money tap in such cases."
Those who do have a maintenance contract would do well to inform the maintenance partner of any anomalies they notice inside, such as moisture spots after a heavy rain.
A constant and also first step during a maintenance service is a check of the roof drains to ensure a smooth passage of rain and melt water. This is not only important in the fall. In spring, there are the pollen formers that drop all sorts of things. In addition, detailing such as seams are visually checked. This specifically involves the connection of the roof edge profile, cable penetrations, pipes, shifted ballast layers, ...
A typical maintenance is done by a team of workers equipped with brushes, shovels, squeegees, etc. to remove any possible contamination and perform a technical inspection. On request, a more thorough technical inspection is also possible. Thereby all connection details are inspected, starting from the TV280 and the TV244 as a guideline.
Contact our colleagues at Tectum Roofcomfort at +32 2 253 11 53 or info@tectumroofcomfort.be and request your periodic roof maintenance.
Read here why Tarkett has chosen periodic roof maintenance in Dendermonde for the past 5 years.
The roof is the fifth facade of a building. It protects the building's occupants and contents from the weather and other outside calamities. Those who invest in a flat roof expect peace of mind for a long time. It is best not to let that depend solely on a good choice of materials and quality workmanship. Periodic maintenance is important so that the structure can continue to perform all its intended functions throughout its life. Moreover, it offers the guarantee of a longer life of the roof waterproofing.
There are some factors that favorably affect the life of a flat roof. "Everything starts with thoughtful design, choosing quality materials and quality workmanship. Attention to detailing in the design helps prevent problems. For example, avoid details in gutters. Also design low-maintenance so that the roof can be accessed safely and maintenance can be done in a safe manner. For example, do not place PV panels up to the eaves. Read more about roof safety in the blog article on fall protection.
In terms of material selection, it is common practice in the flat roof sector to choose materials with a certificate of suitability for use (ATG). This gives you the assurance that the material has been tested and approved by external parties for its intended use. The correct roof construction is described in Technical Information 280. The detailing should be well thought out from the conception in order to avoid improvisations on the building site(see TV 244). If the subsequent execution is carried out with care, and the seam joints are an important point of attention, then you have a good starting point for a long service life," says Eddy Mahieu, Head of Technical Advice and animator of the TC Sealing Works at Buildwise.
Once installed, the materials are exposed to environmental factors: UV radiation, temperature differences, the impact of moisture, ice, pollution. Some materials are already more sensitive to these than others. "The older PVC roofs are a good example of this. Over time, plasticizers leave the material. This causes shrinkage in the sealing membranes and puts so much tension on the parts where there is no gravel ballast - such as the upstands - that the PVC seal can pull away from the wall and/or the water drain and be pulled out of the drains. These are the vulnerable parts that need extra attention during maintenance on older PVC roofs," says Roger Vandeweyer with Tectum Roofcomfort.
Drains and wall connections are vulnerable parts that need extra attention during maintenance.
"Each material has its specific lifespan. A product that on paper has a shorter lifespan will also show wear and tear faster. This is a consideration when choosing during the design phase. Depending on the roof construction and use, there are certain risks. There is a difference between a usage roof that you walk on every day and an unused roof," picks up Yves Rosier of Tectum Group .
The first problems that may arise are blockages caused by fallen leaves and branches. "They accumulate at the site of drains, preventing the smooth drainage of rain or melt water. When clearing the blockages, this can lead to high water pressure on the drain pipe, which can cause it to pop loose. Another phenomenon is the membrane shrinking over time. This shortens the web and the end seams begin to constrict. Over time, blistering can also occur in the gutters. Caulking joints require extra attention because they must be renewed regularly. Furthermore, vertical waterproofing can become loose and start to sag. In these places, water can make its way between the two-layer roof waterproofing or between the waterproofing and the vapor barrier. Finally, there is also traditional damage on pathways to roof installations, such as cracks or perforations," says Roger Vandeweyer. The latter can be easily remedied by installing roof tiles. (see photo above)
To prevent such defects from causing major problems, it is advisable to inspect the roof frequently. This is the essence of periodic flat roof maintenance. "The sooner a defect is noticed, the smaller the consequential damage remains. And this is possible when you inspect the roof at least twice a year," explains Yves Rosier. In addition, the risk of accidents is also reduced by removing loose debris or repairing loose cover stones in a timely manner.
"It's about more than avoiding the big problems," Eddy Mahieu continues. "Nowadays, you see more and more white or reflective waterproofing on flat roofs. To be effective, it requires periodic cleaning. The same applies when rainwater is recovered. Maintenance prevents the filters and cistern from becoming fouled too quickly. A recent and necessary evolution is the recycling or circular reuse of roofing materials. To keep those chances at the end of the life span flawless, regular maintenance and cleaning of the roof is very important. Some manufacturers guarantee the return of their roofing only when the owner can prove that the roof was periodically maintained. By the way, the most durable flat roof is the one with the longest lifespan. To that end, maintenance is crucial."
The most durable flat roof is one with the longest lifespan.
TV280 recommends cleaning the roof twice a year and a visual inspection once a year after such a cleaning. "Although that also requires a bit of common sense. The location of the building (wooded area), the age and condition of the roof may already require a more intensive approach," Roger Vandeweyer suggests.
The seal type also plays a role according to Eddy Mahieu: "A roof seal with slate flakes or granules requires a little more attention during the first year of life. The slate flakes or granules are applied in excess when manufactured, may become loose and then float or blow to the drainage points. It is also advisable to check the condition of the roof or ballast layers after extreme weather conditions, such as a spring or fall storm."
After extreme weather conditions, it is advisable to check the condition of the roof.
Such inspection and maintenance are generally done physically. Sometimes, though, advanced technologies can help detect leaks. Consider thermography or incorporating sensors to detect leaks very quickly or signal excessive snow loads.
Today, we are increasingly using our flat roofs as additional outdoor space, such as a green roof or roof terrace. "The downside of this is that the roof waterproofing is no longer easily accessible for maintenance. In such cases, we start from the plans to detect the places where the water drains. Those are even more important in such roofs to inspect properly. At best, those points are still accessible for inspection.
Let's face it, few building owners or building managers go out to inspect the roof twice a year. However, as a good housekeeper, you are supposed to take on that task or entrust it to a partner through a maintenance contract. Otherwise, that can turn against you. "A contractor must offer a standard 10-year warranty on the work done. But if he can prove that a problem with the roof waterproofing is due to poor maintenance, the contractor does have legal grounds to evade his obligations within the 10-year liability. The insurance company can also turn off the money tap in such cases."
Those who do have a maintenance contract would do well to inform the maintenance partner of any anomalies they notice inside, such as moisture spots after a heavy rain.
A constant and also first step during a maintenance service is a check of the roof drains to ensure a smooth passage of rain and melt water. This is not only important in the fall. In spring, there are the pollen formers that drop all sorts of things. In addition, detailing such as seams are visually checked. This specifically involves the connection of the roof edge profile, cable penetrations, pipes, shifted ballast layers, ...
A typical maintenance is done by a team of workers equipped with brushes, shovels, squeegees, etc. to remove any possible contamination and perform a technical inspection. On request, a more thorough technical inspection is also possible. Thereby all connection details are inspected, starting from the TV280 and the TV244 as a guideline.
Contact our colleagues at Tectum Roofcomfort at +32 2 253 11 53 or info@tectumroofcomfort.be and request your periodic roof maintenance.
Read here why Tarkett has chosen periodic roof maintenance in Dendermonde for the past 5 years.
The roof is the fifth facade of a building. It protects the building's occupants and contents from the weather and other outside calamities. Those who invest in a flat roof expect peace of mind for a long time. It is best not to let that depend solely on a good choice of materials and quality workmanship. Periodic maintenance is important so that the structure can continue to perform all its intended functions throughout its life. Moreover, it offers the guarantee of a longer life of the roof waterproofing.
There are some factors that favorably affect the life of a flat roof. "Everything starts with thoughtful design, choosing quality materials and quality workmanship. Attention to detailing in the design helps prevent problems. For example, avoid details in gutters. Also design low-maintenance so that the roof can be accessed safely and maintenance can be done in a safe manner. For example, do not place PV panels up to the eaves. Read more about roof safety in the blog article on fall protection.
In terms of material selection, it is common practice in the flat roof sector to choose materials with a certificate of suitability for use (ATG). This gives you the assurance that the material has been tested and approved by external parties for its intended use. The correct roof construction is described in Technical Information 280. The detailing should be well thought out from the conception in order to avoid improvisations on the building site(see TV 244). If the subsequent execution is carried out with care, and the seam joints are an important point of attention, then you have a good starting point for a long service life," says Eddy Mahieu, Head of Technical Advice and animator of the TC Sealing Works at Buildwise.
Once installed, the materials are exposed to environmental factors: UV radiation, temperature differences, the impact of moisture, ice, pollution. Some materials are already more sensitive to these than others. "The older PVC roofs are a good example of this. Over time, plasticizers leave the material. This causes shrinkage in the sealing membranes and puts so much tension on the parts where there is no gravel ballast - such as the upstands - that the PVC seal can pull away from the wall and/or the water drain and be pulled out of the drains. These are the vulnerable parts that need extra attention during maintenance on older PVC roofs," says Roger Vandeweyer with Tectum Roofcomfort.
Drains and wall connections are vulnerable parts that need extra attention during maintenance.
"Each material has its specific lifespan. A product that on paper has a shorter lifespan will also show wear and tear faster. This is a consideration when choosing during the design phase. Depending on the roof construction and use, there are certain risks. There is a difference between a usage roof that you walk on every day and an unused roof," picks up Yves Rosier of Tectum Group .
The first problems that may arise are blockages caused by fallen leaves and branches. "They accumulate at the site of drains, preventing the smooth drainage of rain or melt water. When clearing the blockages, this can lead to high water pressure on the drain pipe, which can cause it to pop loose. Another phenomenon is the membrane shrinking over time. This shortens the web and the end seams begin to constrict. Over time, blistering can also occur in the gutters. Caulking joints require extra attention because they must be renewed regularly. Furthermore, vertical waterproofing can become loose and start to sag. In these places, water can make its way between the two-layer roof waterproofing or between the waterproofing and the vapor barrier. Finally, there is also traditional damage on pathways to roof installations, such as cracks or perforations," says Roger Vandeweyer. The latter can be easily remedied by installing roof tiles. (see photo above)
The essence of periodic maintenance of a flat roof, is to avoid small defects causing major problems.
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