Find quick answers to the most common questions about Polyroof’s range of cold-applied liquid waterproofing systems, products, and services.
Here at Polyroof, we understand that the world of flat roofing can sometimes be challenging. To help you navigate your way through these complexities, we have put together a handy FAQ section containing some of the most frequently asked questions related to flat roofing. If we haven’t answered your question below, please get in touch and our team of experts will be happy to help you further.
The following flat roof build-ups are compliant with UK Building Regulations:
Please note: In order to comply with Building Regulations when installing or specifying Polyroof systems, you must follow the correct guidance outlined in the specification. For further information, please contact us.
Here at Polyroof, we strive to take on board as many of the challenges and issues associated with the flat roof that we can, freeing up our clients’ time so they can focus their efforts where they are needed most. Backed by our dedicated technical team, our full suite of support services are designed to remove the stress from specifying the perfect flat roofing solution. From project conception right through to completion, you can rest assured that Polyroof will be on-hand to assist where required. Whether you need help writing a specification, require calculations, or a flat roof survey, we are here to help.
Flat roofing systems in the UK must comply with several parts of the Building Regulations (England & Wales). These are outlined below:
For further guidance on the Building Regulations, please refer to the Government website.
The key British Standards in relation to flat roofing are as follows:
For further information on any of these standards, our technical team will be more than happy to assist you. Please email technical@polyroof.co.uk
Yes, a Polyroof system can help you to improve the thermal performance of your roof. We will work closely with you to specify a system that brings your roof’s thermal performance in line with current building regulations. You can request a thermal performance calculation that will enables us to ensure your target U-Values are met.
Polyroof’s range of BBA-Certified, cold liquid applied systems can help you enhance the look of your building. For example, the systems are capable of replicating the look of metal sheeted roofing at a fraction of the weight and the price and, having no scrap value, are not prone to vandalism.
Polyroof’s simulated metal finishes are achieved through the installation of Polyroof pre-formed GRP trims which are fixed to the deck / substrate prior to the application of the Polyroof waterproofing membrane. The trims come in two varieties – lead roll effect and standing seam (for zinc and copper reproductions). Upon completion, the finish is totally seamless without any of the weak points associated with the joints of metal roofs.
Additionally, Polyroof anti-slip finishes can be incorporated with your flat roofing project to enhance both the aesthetics and safety of the roof. ProGrip and Polyfinish can be applied in conjunction with Polyroof waterproofing systems in a variety of different colours to achieve your aesthetic requirements.
Yes, Polyroof systems can be overlaid to a wide range of existing roof coverings including felt, asphalt, PVC single-ply, concrete, and GRP.
Yes, you can install a flat roof over an existing roof, providing the existing roof build up is structurally sound.
Yes, Polyroof offers a range of technically advanced, cold-applied liquid waterproofing membranes that are all highly resistant to penetration and ideal for use as part of a green roof construction. Polyroof waterproofing systems are BBA-certified for use with green roofs, helping you deliver increased biodiversity where it is needed most and enhance climate change mitigation & resilience in the built environment.
Yes, Polyroof’s range of cold-applied liquid waterproofing systems can be used in both new build and refurbishment applications. Our systems can overlay existing failed flat roof systems, upgrade structurally sound roofs that require increased thermal performance, and replace roofs where the integrity of the build up has been compromised. Polyroof’s team of technical experts will be able to advise you on the most suitable approach to your flat roofing project, by conducting core test samples and moisture mapping to determine the best course of action.
Polyroof can help you navigate challenges in relation to sustainability by providing you with transparent, reliable data needed to fulfil your client’s sustainability needs. Whether you are a contractor looking to strengthen your competitiveness during the tender process, or a specifier seeking to better understand the sustainability framework you are working within.
Yes, Polyroof’s systems are fully reinforced and, therefore, highly durable, making them ideally suited to be used in applications where foot traffic will be encountered. To ensure safety on the roof, you can incorporate an anti-slip finish to trafficable areas that clearly define designated walkways and recreational areas.
Polyroof’s flagship Protec Evolve System is powered by an advanced flexible hybrid polyester methacrylate formulation with exceptionally low odour during installation, making it ideal for sensitive applications.
To determine whether an existing roof is suitable for an overlay application, you must first conduct tests to ascertain the integrity of the build up. Polyroof’s Technical Team can help you do this by carrying out core tests, which will evaluate whether the existing roof is suitable for overlay.
In order to determine the most appropriate course of action to refurbish a flat roof, you must first ascertain whether there are any underlying issues. By conducting a survey of the roof area, Polyroof can help you decide if the roof requires an overlay of the existing flat roof system, upgrading the existing roof, or stripping up the entire failing system and replacing it. Request a site survey today.
When installing a liquid-applied membranes, the outdoor temperature has an effect on the cure time and installation process. When temperatures, drop to a certain level, Winter Accelerators must be used in conjunction with Polyroof systems. Please see the below guidelines for further information:
Protec System –
If the temperature ranges between 1°C and 4°C, Low Temperature Accelerators must be used to ensure the system will fully cure. You must first ensure that the substrate is clear from any debris and dirt, in addition to condensation and frost.
If the temperature is between 5°C and 10°C, Low Temperature Accelerators may be used to speed up the cure time and pot life of the resin for a quicker installation.
Winter Accelerators for Protec are not recommended for temperatures above 10°C.
Protec Evolve System –
If the temperature is between 2°C and 7°C, Low Temperature Accelerators must be used to ensure the system will fully cure. You must first ensure that the substrate is clear from any debris and dirt, in addition to condensation and frost.
If the temperature is between 8°C and 17°C, Low Temperature Accelerators may be used to speed up the cure time and pot life of the resin for a quicker installation.
Winter Accelerators for Protec Evolve are not recommended for temperatures above 17°C.
During warmer temperatures, the pot life of the resin is reduced. Polyroof recommends using Summer Inhibitors to allow more control over the cure time of the system and optimise your installation.
No, all Polyroof systems are fully cold applied, negating the need for any hot works permits for application.
On projects over 100m2 and requiring a Polyroof Guarantee, it is recommended Polyroof Field Services complete the Adhesion Test (as required) prior to commencement of works to confirm the preparation and priming requirements.
Adhesion test methodology will vary depending on the surface to be coated.
The following is typical guidance that would be applicable for a single ply or unidentified coating. Thoroughly clean an area to be tested approximately 300mm x 300mm.
Scrub half the sample with acetone and wait until it fully evaporates. Next, decant and add catalyst at the required amount of Uni-Primer DP and apply to half the sample in the opposite orientation to the acetone wipe. Alternatively use SP Primer 202 if testing single ply.
Once the primer has cured, add catalyst at the required rate to decanted Protec Resin and apply by roller over the sample and embed cut-to-size fibreglass CSM, which should be fully consolidated with resin.
IMPORTANT – Make sure to take a sketch, photo or clearly mark around the samples in order to record what preparation has been carried out. Return to the sample 7 days later with a Stanley knife and attempt to dislodge the membrane from the
surface, assessing each of the four areas for level of adhesion. If the surface is suitable for over-coating, you will not be able to lift the membrane from at least one of the four areas. If more than one area shows excellent adhesion, chose your preferred surface preparation.
A carrier layer is used in refurbishment applications where the existing roof covering is overlaid with the new waterproofing system to normalise surface level.
Carrier layers are required in warm roof construction, as liquid waterproofing membranes cannot be directly applied to the insulation.
In a roof application where the system is being applied to plywood or OSB, we recommend incorporating a carrier layer to avoid the need for expansion joints or board joint taping.
Polyroof systems are BBA-Certified for application to surfaces up to 70 degrees in pitch. For further information regarding this, please email technical@polyroof.co.uk
You should allow each coat 30-60 minutes (in normal conditions) to fully cure before walking over the system.
Protec System:
Protec Evolve System:
185 GRP System
ProGrip
Once the waterproofing system has fully cured, you can walk on roof. Polyroof’s systems encompass RapidCure technology, with cure times in as little as 30 minutes.
The Customer must take all reasonable care to regularly inspect the Roof twice annually at a minimum (in autumn and spring). Additional inspections may be necessary after very unusual weather conditions, if other works are being carried out in close proximity to the Roof, or if any known damage has occurred. All inspections should be undertaken by a Competent Person.
We have been supporting Polyroof installations in conjunction with approved installers with our proven guarantees since 1984 and take pride in the level of cover that our guarantees provide.
Note: Any guarantee offer is subject to confirmation. Samples of guarantees outlining level of cover and full T&Cs are available on request.
