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Waterproofing your roof

Polyurethane Foam as a Waterproofing Option

Polyurethane foam has been used in the building industry for almost half a century and is today considered durable, reliable, affordable and dependable.  This type of waterproofing offers great advantages, for one it gives a seamless cover.  Because it is sprayed on it creates a continuous membrane that is able to cover and protect the entire roof.  No joints or seams means no possibility of gaps opening allowing leaks through.  It is flexible and for this reason can be applied to any type of surface or shape.  There is also little waste incurred during application.
It is extremely lightweight and even though it is a thin material it provides wonderful insulation which will help reduce energy costs of running a home.
 
Polyurethane comprises very tight cells that act as a barrier against water or moisture; it keeps water away as well as minimising any problems associated with dew or condensation.  Even if the foam top coat gets damaged, it will still protect as it is the underlying layer that keeps the area water tight.  It encourages water to drain properly too and in this way prevents any accumulation.
 
The two substances that comprise polyurethane are run through a machine which heats them up and sprays them out in a single substrate.  Initially in liquid form, it enables every nook and cranny to be coated in a single continuous layer.  Once sprayed, polyurethane hardens over time.
 

Waterproof Membranes
 
By its name, membrane suggests some type of barrier or protection placed between two things, in this case, your roof and the weather. There are many different types of rubber membranes, and roofing by its nature calls for something that is robust, flexible and made from something that can be heat welded on site.  Installing a waterproof membrane on a roof however needs expertise and dry spaces.  When complete it is imperative that the membrane is 100% free of defects, especially on flat roof structures.  Waterproof membranes is laid down onto a surface and adhered to it by means of adhesives.  But this type of waterproofing is not without problems as it can be susceptible to UV and other elements which may weaken its structure.  Plus the adhesive used is critical for success.  They do require a professional installer to fit and are not recommended for a DIY project.  In South Africa, this type of waterproofing works well as we don’t experience that much rain throughout the year, as many other countries do. 
 

Bitumen Waterproofing
 
Hailed as being a perfect waterproofing material for roofs because of its ability to move.  It is considered to be not too rigid as well as being impervious to water. 
 
In its raw form Bitumen resembles tar.  When applied it is first heated and then brushed onto the surface it is protecting.  However it may not be the best option for extremely cold climates as these weather fluctuations may cause cracks.
 
It is not water soluble, and it is not biodegradable.  Bitumen roof products are available in different top surfaces however which can help blend into the landscape, it offers a long lifespan, reflect sun rays. However this is a roof waterproofing that takes the place of tiles or shingles, and is not applied as an under layer.  Perhaps it is an option best used on flat roofs where it is not easily seen. 
 
The three waterproofing ideas mentioned here are perhaps the most common methods for waterproofing a roof, but they are by no means the only ones.  Technology today is advancing each year and with it comes newer and newer innovations aimed at saving time and cost, adding value and increases longevity.
 
For some of us in South Africa who have to contend with a lot of rain one of the easiest methods of preventing water seepage is to have a slanting roof, but this on its own does not guarantee waterproofing.  We need and extra layer between the roof, the elements and us.  Those who opt for building a flat roof need above average waterproofing as water tends to build up which can lead to water logging and seepage over time.
 
Waterproofing a roof is a very big thing, if not done properly the results can be disastrous, even leading to a compromise of the very structure of not only the roof but of the entire building.  Water can creep into concrete cracks and can cause iron to rust and weaken.  Rusted iron expands which causes the concrete to crack even further and eventually as the iron becomes nothing more than powder, the structure loses its strength.  All this because your roof wasn’t waterproofed correctly!
 
If you are one of the unfortunate few who are experiencing water leakage, don’t hesitate in calling in the professionals.  Many different options are available today which will put an end to any further leakage before it becomes the nightmare of having to remove the entire roof and replacing it.  Who knows, it may be something that can be simply fixed by means of painting a waterproofing on the areas that are affected.
 
Maintenance
 
While it’s easy to point a finger at contractors and the like, as a homeowner one thing we tend to overlook is simple roof maintenance.  Just one small leak can become a larger one over time and what would have been a minor roof repair, now becomes a gargantuan one. 
 
For example, a leak can occur by the simple practice of leaves rotting on the roof.  Debris that is left to rot will create mould and this can slowly cause damage to the roof. 
 
You need to perform regular inspections every few months, no matter what your roof is made from.  This is the only way to ensure that you catch problems in their infancy and don’t allow them to get out of control.  Remove debris especially in those areas where water is designed to flow off.  Check all your flashing for damage and don’t leave moss or algae untreated, this can take literally years off the life of any roof.
 
A little bit of time and effort on your part can prevent major hassles in the future.