ROOFING WATER, WATER, EVERYWHERE
BMJ looks at the way the right waterproofing solutions can impact the safety and value of a building.
H
owever they are caused, whether by age, damaged flashing or ponding water, roof problems are irritating, and time-consuming and
costly to recify. That’s why timely remedial waterproofing solutions can help to prevent small leaks from turning into major problems. According to Bostik’s Andrew Hamman, category manager - Weatherproofing, Chemicals & Thermal Construction, a build-up of moisture may be the result of buildings being improperly waterproofed, repairs being made with the wrong product, or a lack of surface preparation. “As well as damaging the roof and building structure, it can also destroy equipment and property inside the building. Repairs and replacements for this type of damage can become expensive,” he says. Hamman points out that there are a number of waterproofing products available that offer preventative maintenance or emergency repairs to roofs, without costing the earth.
Puddles mean leaks
Ponding and puddles that form on a roof are a large cause of leaks, and the nature of flat roofs makes them particularly susceptible to this issue, while an uneven roof is more likely to face problems no matter what drainage system is in place. When a large amount of rainwater builds up, it can stay there for some time – especially in the colder months when there’s more rain and it doesn’t get the chance to evaporate. As this water turns stagnant, it can damage a structure through existing wear and tear.
He explains that regular maintenance is one of the best ways to prevent waterproofing issues. “When contractors are carrying out any maintenance or emergency visits, the merchant needs to recommend that the roof is checked for areas with ponding, and to see if water is gathering in any areas where it shouldn’t. This could be due to faulty guttering or blocked drainage, but it’s usually best to also advise on investigating inside buildings during or straight after heavy rainfall – this will determine whether there are any internal issues as well.” Even the most well constructed building will be impacted by the effects of the elements over time, Hamman adds. “Any small leaks can still cause significant problems, and can soon turn into larger ones, so it’s best for them
maintenance products work best when applied in warm, dry conditions, solutions such as our Bostik Flexacryl Instant Repair can be applied in the wet as an emergency repair for more urgent issues.”
When gaps and cracks are completely coated, the fibres in this type of waterproofer will bridge and seal them permanently. It’s suitable for application by brush straight from the tin, including to wet surfaces once contaminants have been removed and any excess water is brushed away.
Furthermore, damaged flashing or roof felt are both easily repaired with a tear resistant flashing tape, such as Bostik Flashband, which Hamman says has four layers of protection to provide a permanent watertight seal. “Before flashing tape is applied, correctly preparing the surface is crucial to ensure the product can perform optimally. Its adhesion will always be improved with the use of a primer, but this is even more crucial in damp conditions. Bostik Flashband Primer S.V. is useful if surfaces are more porous. It will prime and seal roof tiles, timber, metal or mineralised felt, while drying quickly, even in cold and damp conditions.”
If gutters leak, the joints between sections are one of the most common causes, while cracks can soon grow, causing greater damage. Hamman says that, with this sort of wear and tear more likely to occur when there has been significant volumes of poor weather, epairs usually need to be made in the wet, often whilst it is still raining. “Dirt or grit needs to be removed, then you can recommend a sealant like EVO-STIK Sticks Like Sh*t to provide a long lasting, waterproof seal. This stays flexible, is paintable when dry and can be applied in the wet, so it’s ideal in this situation.” Merchants need to be aware of the issues in order to be able to stock the right waterproofing solutions, he adds, thereby providing contractors with the ideal tools to carry out the best possible waterproofing maintenance and emergency repairs. “In addition, being able to advise on the most suitable methods, emphasising the importance of quality waterproofing and maintenance, will ensure your customers can offer a service that provides long-term safety and value to building structures.” BMJ
July 2022
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net 33
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52
