Roof waterproofing: types, which is better and how to choose

To isolate the house from moisture, it is not enough to lay roofing material on the roof. Water will always find gaps for itself. Therefore, carry out waterproofing of the roof. Let's consider what there are ways to insulate the roof from moisture, their features, and which one is better.

The action of roof waterproofing

Protective functions of roof waterproofing:

• Keeps moisture from getting into the rafter frame if the finish is damaged. When it gets damp, rotting begins. Loses its strength.
• The insulation will not get wet. Its thermal insulation properties will be preserved.
• On the inside of the roof, the formation of condensation is minimized.

Materials for roof waterproofing

The main types of waterproofing for roofs:

• Polyethylene film weighs a little, has an average strength, is inexpensive. However, this material deteriorates from the effects of ultraviolet light. Nevertheless, it can serve about 50 years and is often used for waterproofing roofs. The film should have special holes in certain places for ventilation.
• Membrane waterproofing with a multi-layer structure is more durable and flexible. It is more resistant to the effects of ultraviolet light. The membrane is permeable to air. This material is suitable for use for more than 100 years.
• Mastic for waterproofing is a liquid composition for waterproofing roofs. It is based on bitumen, synthetic polymers.
• Cladding waterproofing for the roof of fiberglass fabric, bitumen and mineral chips is laid with layering on neighboring cloths. It is then exposed to high temperatures with a torch.
• Waterproofing for roofs comes in the form of spray and from polymer-bitumen emulsion and two-component mastic. After application and curing, an elastic coating without seams is formed.

What waterproofing for the roof is better, there is no unambiguous answer. It depends on the level of humidity in the area where the house stands, from the design of the roof. Also take into account what kind of fastening or application of the material will be more convenient.

How to choose waterproofing for the roof

To withstand the effects of moisture, temperature fluctuations, pressure from the weight of the roof and water from precipitation, waterproofing should have these characteristics:

• The water resistance of the surface is determined by its ability to withstand a liquid pressure of 10 mPa from 10 minutes.
• Tensile strength will prevent the material from cracking or tearing when wind gusts or branches or hail hits the roof.
• The elasticity of the waterproofing will prevent it from tearing from water pressure.
• The light weight of the protective coating will not weigh down the roof structure.
• The lifespan of the waterproofing should match the lifespan of other roofing materials.

What kind of roof waterproofing is needed depends on the type of exterior coating. Under the soft tile is suitable polymer film, under the metal tile, folded roof - membrane waterproofing with vapor permeability. Rolled materials are easier to install. To apply mastic, liquid waterproofing in the form of spray, requires equipment and experience. Take into account which method of fixing the material is more convenient in a particular case.