Flat Roofing Materials: Problems, solutions and futures

This course examines continuous waterproofing systems with respect to past, present and future practice, focussing on suitability, assessment of defects, refurbishment and innovations.

Continuous waterproofing, whatever the roof geometry, has long been recognised as providing an ideal solution where design calls for flexibility and cost effectiveness. A very large number of residential and commercial buildings are wholly or partly covered by flat roofs and now they are being widely promoted as a green alternative. Professionals encounter them regularly when conducting surveys and undertaking valuations, and when required to give practical advice about the specification of new or replacement roofs or the diagnosis of problems with a exiting roof. They need to understand past, present and future practice, to analyse problems due to poor design or maintenance and to be able to offer durable solutions. They also need an awareness of new developments and their benefits. This course meets those needs drawing on expertise based on the highest level practice.

The course covers:

• definitions and key standards
• types of flat roof: their behaviour, design and suitable materials
• assessing existing roofs
• options for refurbishment
• impact of Part L and prospects for 2013 onwards
• Green Deal
• solar renewables – are they a risk to roofs?
• case studies

Jim Hooker is an acknowledged national expert in flat roofing. He was technical director of the British Flat Roofing Council from 1994 to 2000, before setting up his own consultancy. He provides all technical administrative and financial support to the Single Ply Roofing Association.

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