New roofing products and accessories are enabling roofers to get their jobs done smarter, more efficiently, and with better results. This article looks specifically at “liquid-applied membrane.” Read on to discover why your commercial roofer might recommend these products and the benefits to you, the landlord, unit owner or tenant.
Better roof performance requires high-quality, expertly-installed
Effective waterproofing accessories and processes are essential in preventing water from seeping into vulnerable areas, such as joints, seams, and areas where the roof surface meets vertical structures. When watertight processes fail in a commercial property, damages can lead to costly repairs, delayed operations, damaged inventory, unhappy tenants and more.
A combination of membrane and metal counterflashings is the traditional go-to-solution to prevent leaks where flat surfaces meet vertical penetrations. However, the process can be difficult when dealing with hard-to-reach areas, such as around “I” beams and HSS posts. In such situations, using the customary solutions can be awkward and time-consuming.
One of the newer products in the industry is liquid-applied flashing. This versatile product is easy-to-apply – especially in irregularly shaped areas, requires less time and labour, extends performance in vulnerable areas and is great for small, quick repairs. No doubt, roofers will find additional ways to leverage this product in the future.
Leak-free roof performance requires the right products, accessories and installation
Here is some clarification about flashings. This word is often overused, misused and unclear. It’s not just any type of sheet metal, metal components, roof sealant, or seam tape.
A better definition is a process used to divert water away from the roof, preventing it from penetrating the roof system. It is installed around the base of roof projections such as HVAC curbs, skylights, vents, and other similar items.
With that said, let’s look at different types of systems.
Metal flashings
Metal flashings are highly durable and offer long-lasting protection against the elements. They are effective in areas with extreme weather or where longevity is crucial. They are made of a thin layer of metal that must be cut, positioned, installed precisely. The metal pieces are installed with mechanical fasteners (such as screws and nailin anchors) or adhesive. Metal cannot be used as a stand alone solution in most instances. There must be waterproofing materials installed underneath the metal.
In many situations, it is very difficult to install metal and rolled roofing membrane, including:
- Tight corners and crevices
- Structures that can’t be disconnected
- Circular elements like steel posts and columns
- Elements that are close together, making installation difficult
- Also, complex metal installations require a sheet metal installer to return to site adding to the cost of repairs.
Flexible flashing tape
This method has also become increasingly popular. The product comes in narrow rolls of rubberized asphalt, polyvinylidene fluoride (kylar), acrylic or butyl rubber with an adhesive backing. The membrane is cut into accurately shaped strips, carefully positioned and firmly pressed onto the roof surface while smoothing down any wrinkles or bubbles.
While metal is more durable, flexible tape is more convenient for many applications. It is often used for relatively small areas, irregularly shaped penetrations and around non-straight solutions, such as pipes.
Modified bitumen – rolled roofing membrane
Self-adhering modified bitumen (mod-bit), a membrane made from asphalt and polymers, can be a cost-effective alternative for small repairs. Mod-bit membrane is a full-sheet, multi-layered roofing material that is highly durable and weather resistant. Like flexible membrane tape, its flexibility enables it to conform to irregular shapes and penetrations. However, it is hard to cut and install in tight working areas and irregularly shaped locations.
Versatility and performance of liquid-applied roofing products
Liquid-applied systems overcome a variety of problems associated with metal, membrane tape and modified bitumen. Most importantly, it provides an easier and cost-effective way to create a continuous waterproof barrier in situations where metal is difficult to install.
Some especially useful applications are:
- For control joints in concrete buildings and balconies, where flexibility enables it to move with the building
- For the inside of enclosed box-type gutters, which have difficult-to-access corners, seams and penetrations
In the future, the industry will certainly discover more ways to use this product category, providing even greater versatility.
Characteristics of PermaFlash/Aslan liquid-applied systems:
A popular product in this category is Johns Manville’s Permaflash or Alsan by Soprema. This product is formulated for bituminous roofs and can be used to seal most penetrations, drains and vertical surfaces. It features a single-component polyurethane- and bitumen-based resin waterproof coating reinforced by polyester.
Other characteristics of these product include:
- Wide application temperature range
- Low odor, VOC compliant and UV stabile
- Great tensile strength, expansion up to 500% and strong crack bridging capabilities
- Fast and simple application
- Excellent adhesion, high reliability and durability
Combine Innovative Roofing Products with Top-Quality Workmanship
Liquid-applied flashing offers a great alternative to metal, tape and membrane, especially in hard-to-apply situations. As you compare methods and products, your choice will depend on the roof type, the project, environment, budget, and other considerations. Elite Roofing offers the superior craftsmanship and knowledge required to build a high-performing commercial roof using the best materials for your requirements. That’s the #EliteAdvantage.
Contact us today for a quote and consultation on new construction, repairs, reroofing, or replacement.
