Making fast work on high profile roofing projects

Time is of the essence in business, particularly the roofing business, writes Mahroof Hussain, Area Technical Manager at Sika-Trocal. Delays, however minimal, incurred during commercial new-build or refurbishment projects can lead to unexpected costs to the client.

When someone falls behind schedule in a multi-trade works programme, the knock-on effect can be disastrous. If a roof's waterproofing is held-up, interior works are also likely to be delayed with the building not being weatherproof. This means the installation of floors, walls, electrics, plumbing and the like are also put on hold. The overall effect of this type of stalling could set a project back weeks and months, rather than hours or days. 

Rapid development

Product innovation and the streamlining of the building process itself is vital to helping contractors, developers, etc, fulfil the project expectations. Sika-Trocal's Type S waterproof membrane presents a fine example of a system created specifically for the 21^st century roofing market. Suitable for new and refurbishment projects, the Type S system uses dedicated Sika-Trocal laminated discs to fasten the membrane and the insulation to the substrate.

Mechanical fixing has been proven to speed-up the roof waterproofing process by up to 30%. The improved application time is due to solvent-welding methods devised to fuse the overlapping membrane rolls; a practice pioneered by Sika in the UK. Employing this process, rather than the more traditional heat-welding method, also results in a neater, more attractive waterproof finish. Heat welding requires a temperature of more than 350°C in order to successfully fuse membrane layers. Although there is no naked flame involved, in inexperienced hands a membrane is at risk of discoloration using this method. Mechanically- fixed, solvent-welded membranes also require less equipment to install. This benefit, along with its time-saving attributes which reduce on-site working hours, means the Type S system helps cut pollution caused by machine-based emissions.

Wind resistant 

The Type S system comprises of a vapour control layer, insulation and membrane which is held in place by Sika-Trocal discs. These are spot-welded to the membrane. The fixings allow the whole system to be mechanically-fastened to a roof's structural deck. The added strength this provides makes the Type S membrane an ideal waterproof solution for roofs located in exposed areas where high wind uplift is a common hazard.

Speed of installation and reliable, long-term performance are the properties which attract contractors and renowned commercial brands to specify Sika-Trocal's Type S. Supermarket stores nationwide have historically been fitted with the system. Its rapid delivery minimises disruption to businesses, hence its specification in September for a new supermarket site where its installation across a 600m² roof area was completed in just  three days.

The system's speedy installation doesn't compromise its quality, however. It is why Sika-Trocal's Type S system is the rapid, long-term solution when it comes to waterproof roofing.

Visit: www.sika.co.uk