Assessment

There is no universal patent solution for refurbishing a flat roof. The basic requirement for a refurbishment consultation is to assess and thoroughly inspect the roof. This includes firstly checking the existing roof system, from the substructure through to the waterproofing capping sheet or surface protection. If necessary, the waterproofing membranes and thermal insulation can be analysed in our laboratory. The usage of the building must also be taken into account, since that also has a crucial effect on the stresses acting on the roof structure as a whole. The most significant factors here are the air temperature and humidity within the building.

The process of assessment starts with a visual inspection. The slope of the roof is determined along with the type and number of
penetrations (skylights, fans, ventilation tubes etc.).
The surface of the roof waterproofing should be inspected for creases, blisters, cracks and brittleness. The connections and penetrations must also be checked:

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• Is the gully located at the lowest point so that water can actually drain away?
• Are penetration connections and expansion joints located away from the water-carrying level?
• Are the connection heights at the roof edge and roof connections complied with?
• How are the metal profiles and cover profiles designed?
• How have the expansion joints been installed?
  
  

The Bauder technical applications team has drawn up a checklist for this purpose so that your Bauder technical consultant can record all the most important points on-site. If the assessment reveals visible damage, a detailed roof investigation should be carried out. This involves opening up the roof at various points and examining the existing structure to ascertain whether the thermal insulation has absorbed moisture, whether there is any moisture on the vapour barrier and indeed whether there is a vapour barrier installed.