Flat roofs have long been favored in commercial and industrial construction due to their affordability and straightforward installation process. In recent years, they’ve also gained traction in modern residential architecture for their sleek appearance. However, the durability and effectiveness of flat roofs largely depend on the quality of the materials and proper installation, which often presents challenges related to inadequate sealing. Advances in flat roofing technology have been developed to address these challenges, offering enhanced efficiency, extended lifespan, and reliable protection.
Discover how cutting-edge cold weather membrane tapes can elevate flat roofs to unparalleled levels of performance.
To address these challenges, high-performance pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) tapes offer an effective solution for installing self-adhered membranes on flat roofs without the need for mechanical fasteners or heat. This approach creates a win-win situation for construction companies, workers, and building owners alike. Let’s explore this further.
Three Key Benefits of Fully Adhered Roof Systems
Innovative adhesive tapes for flat roof installation ensure reliable performance while adding value in several areas, including the simplified installation of roofing membranes. The key benefits of these advanced tapes include:
- Quick and Easy Installation: PSA tapes allow for fast, clean application, reducing installation time, labor costs, and overall construction duration.
- Dependable Sealing Performance: These tapes provide long-lasting waterproof and airtight sealing, even under harsh conditions, thanks to their excellent aging and weather resistance. This durability minimizes the risk of insulation cracks, which can lead to potential weak spots for water infiltration and energy loss.
- Reduced Risks: The absence of high temperatures, flames, fumes, or gas cylinders during installation reduces risks for workers and minimizes environmental impact.
However, workers often encounter difficulties using PSA tapes in winter since most adhesives become brittle at temperatures near 0°C, limiting construction activities during the cold season. Additionally, achieving adhesion on nonpolar, difficult-to-bond membrane surfaces with PSA tapes is another challenge in fully adhered systems.
The good news is that specially designed adhesive tapes can overcome these challenges. Let’s dive into how they work!
The Adhesive Difference!
Utilizing innovative solvent-free UV curing adhesive technology, Saint-Gobain® Tape Solutions engineers have developed the RW20 pure acrylic adhesive. This adhesive offers critical features for demanding flat roofing applications, including excellent aging, moisture, and environmental resistance, reliable performance at temperatures below 0°C, and strong adhesion to both flat and rough low surface energy (LSE) substrates. This makes it an ideal choice for self-adhered membrane installations, even during cold seasons.
Biolink® non-permeable cold weather membrane sealing tape, Netlink 5072, can be used to seal mechanically attached membranes or as an auxiliary tape in fully adhered systems to secure critical seams.
The RW20 adhesive is an ideal option for laminating customer membranes, providing secure adhesion to a wide variety of membrane materials and underlying roof structures.
Another advantage of the UV curing technology used in RW20 is that it eliminates the need for solvents, water, or high temperatures during the coating process.
Superior Bonding and Sealing Performance
As we’ve discussed, innovative adhesive tapes offer considerable benefits for flat roof installations, ensuring long-lasting environmental protection. Selecting the right membrane and installation method is crucial for optimal performance in industrial, commercial, or residential flat roofs. Consult with your tape experts to find the best solution that will elevate your roof’s performance to the highest level.
