Building technology does not stand still. They are constantly evolving, expanding opportunities for private and large developers. So in the field of waterproofing materials. Habitual technologies are being replaced by new ones. One of those is a waterproofing membrane. She is gaining recognition every day, pushing competitors from their positions.
What is it
A waterproofing membrane is a type of polymer film. It is made from low and high density polyethylene. The composition of this material includes various components, including antioxidants, which significantly increase operational characteristics.
A waterproofing membrane is a web material. The thickness of the web is from 0.5 to 3 mm. The thinner the material, the more flexible and flexible it is. But at the same time, its reliability and strength indicators are worse.
The main objective of this material is to protect the internal space from external moisture. Also, the membrane allows you to protect the building structure from external influences. This allows you to optimize the operational properties of the structure and extend its service life.
Main advantages
- Durability. The service life declared by the manufacturer can reach 50 years.
- UV resistant. Under the influence of sunlight, the performance of the membrane does not deteriorate.
- Resistance to external negative factors. The waterproofing membrane does not oxidize or rot.
- Resistance to mechanical influences. The structure of the material allows it to withstand various injuries, including punctures, shock, and germination of plant roots.
- Wide range of operating temperatures. The material retains its high performance and elasticity at temperatures from -40 to +50 degrees.
- Resistance to chemicals.
- Environmental Safety. The material does not adversely affect either the environment or living organisms.
Styling methods
There are several ways to install this material. The choice of one of them is determined by the type of roofing system. The first way is to fasten the membrane over the insulation on the rafters. This method is suitable for pitched roofs. For flat ones, ballast fixing of the material is used, that is, river pebbles of the middle fraction are covered over the entire area of the laid membrane.
PVC waterproofing membrane
This material is one of the most modern. It is a fabric made of plasticized polyvinyl chloride, reinforced with polyester thread. It is a very strong, durable and reliable material. Canvases at the joints are connected by welding.
EPDM membrane
The main component for the manufacture of this type of waterproofing is a synthetic rubber material that is reinforced with polyester fibers. The EPDM membrane is very flexible and has excellent performance properties. But it has one significant drawback - this is the complexity of arranging the joints. A special glue is required to connect the paintings. As a result, joints are the weakest point of structures.
TPO membrane
As the main component in the manufacture of this material, thermoplastic olefins are used. A waterproofing membrane of this type can be made both with reinforcement with a fiberglass mesh and without it. This material is slightly plastic, which has significant limitations on its use.
How much is a waterproofing membrane for a roof
The price of this material depends on the manufacturer, web thickness and additives used in the production. The minimum cost of one square meter of PVC, EPDM or TPO membrane is approximately equal and is about 250 rubles.