The most widespread materials for the creation of the waterproofing layer are the polymer-bitumen roll-fed membranes. This is due to the relative simplicity of installation, popularity of the technology, durability of the material and stability of the factory-set technical parameters. Polymer-bitumen membranes are commonly used for waterproofing of foundations, engineering structures, roads, bridge decks and flat roofs. These materials could also be used as an underlay for pitched roofs and as a vapor barrier.

Keeping water away from the indoor environment is critical to maintaining the integrity of the intended structure as well as indoor comfort and hygiene. Whether you are investing in waterproofing a foundation, road, pitched roof or flat roof, polymer-bitumen waterproofing membranes can help you achieve the design functions that you need.

Types of polymer-bitumen membranes

Regular membranes

Regular polymer-bitumen membranes are used as traditional roofing and waterproofing materials and require a torch-on application for adhesion to the base. These membrane materials feature either APP, a polymer specifically suited for hot climates, or SBS, a polymer that offers greater flexibility and resiliency. For example, ULTRAPLAST grey mineral is an APP-modified cap sheet membrane that is used as the top layer in a double-layer exposed roofing system, which provides reliable waterproofing regardless of the heat intensity. Whereas the SBS-modified membranes of ULTRAFLEX A series can offer additional flexibility and dynamic resistance.  

Membranes for special application

The membranes for a special application feature the same waterproofing capabilities as regular membranes but provide unique attributes to suit specific targets. One can use TECHNONICOL SOUNDSTOP SUPER underneath floating flooring to reduce impact noise. TECHNONICOL ENVIRO WHITE membrane incorporates white slate as a means of reducing UV influence and heat absorption; its unique color also provides an interesting aesthetic as a roofing material. Other special membranes can even improve air quality and reduce vegetative growth on the roofing, such as TECHNONICOL ENVIRO AIR and TECHNONICOL ENVIRO FOREST models, respectively.

Self-adhesive membranes

For those looking for the easy application of polymer-bitumen membranes without torch heating, one can choose from various options relative to the project's needs. TECHNONICOL self-adhesive membranes greatly simplify and speed up the application without compromising waterproofing integrity in roofs and foundations. The best-seller material of the category, ULTRAFLEX SA 7000-X, offers superior elongation, waterproofing and radon protection for foundation and engineering projects.

Membranes for pitched roofs with mechanical fixation

Traditional pitched roofs require mechanical fixation of shingles with nails to the roofing underlayment. The membranes for pitched roofs not only provide waterproofing capabilities but also help to seal and retain the nails, increasing the durability of the roofing system. In conjunction with self-adhesive membranes UNDERLAY NEXT SELF or ULTRAFLEX SA applied over eaves and valleys of a roofing structure, users gain maximum waterproofing as well as improved strength throughout the roofing surface.

Benefits of modified bitumen membranes

The primary benefit of implementing modified bitumen membranes in roofing and overall construction is preventing the destruction of the structure due to water penetration, subsequently extending its lifetime as well as reducing overall maintenance costs. Secondarily, waterproofing helps to reduce indoor humidity as well as prevent the infiltration of unwanted microorganisms such as mold and mildew, improving indoor air quality and enhancing occupant comfort. Ultimately, with various design features that reduce UV damage and vegetative damage as well as simplify the application of bitumen membranes, users gain increased building performance while reducing labor and material costs.

If you are looking for a sound and proven method to reduce overall costs, improve building integrity and increase its performance, consider the variety of modified bitumen membranes to take your construction projects to the next level.