In this post, we will discuss the importance of a flat roof field inspection and how it can aid in the roof renovation or replacement process. Let’s use a school renovation project as an example to illustrate its benefits.
The on-site inspection is step six of eight steps in the Perfect Roof process. Read more on our microsite or watch the video here.
Flat roof field inspection supports clients
School project clients (in this case a multi-academy trust), school business managers and directors can gain confidence and peace of mind by having flat roof installations regularly inspected by experts during construction. These inspections allow the client to ensure that the roof is installed correctly at every stage.
Warranty is key Contributes to successful flat roof installation or repair. It needs to be authentic. Backed by trusted solution providers and based on good practices. An on-site inspection of the flat roof confirms that the warranty is met, the school does not need to apply for a warranty, and a maintenance program (usually consisting of inspections every 6 months) ensures that the roof You can be confident that your equipment will function properly throughout its service life. ) follows.
On-site inspection reduces client risk This is because not only does it eliminate the need for warranty claims, but it also reduces risk for roofing suppliers and installers. If the roof is properly installed and maintained, you should not experience any problems with flat roofs during the life of the roof. There are also no additional costs, so everyone can rest assured.
On-site inspection of flat roofs assists contractors
On-site inspections can also assist roofing contractors, as the experts at SIG Design and Technology can provide professional assistance and support. Many of our contractors have been working on flat roofs for over 30 years, so collaboration is a natural fit for them.
If design issues arise during the project, they can be discussed with the contractor on site. Problems can be avoided if they are caught early enough, but they can be costly if discovered later. Flat roofs are sealed by their nature, and uncovering buildup may reveal some problems. An experienced team can identify the right way to deal with such issues and prevent mistakes and poor decisions resulting from inexperience.
During the site inspection, we can discuss the best way to achieve the details planned in the specifications and ensure we achieve the most robust details possible. SIG Design and Technology acts as a constant point of contact so contractors can quickly resolve issues and avoid program delays.
What does an on-site inspection include?
Cover page of our on-site roof inspection report
Typically, we will inspect your roofing work at least once a week during construction and complete an inspection document known as a SIGnature Warranty Inspection Report if SIGnature products are used. A similar inspection process is applied to other systems as appropriate.
This inspection report is sent to the client and provides a snapshot of what is happening. In this way, the client is well-informed about the stages of the work and always informed about the identified problems and how to solve them.
Part of the field inspection process for flat roofs is to ensure that all layers of the roof are installed correctly. These may include, among others:
- deck;
- Primer;
- VCL (vapor control layer);
- Insulation (may be glued or mechanically fixed).
- Underlay;
- cap sheet;
- Any trim, and
- Rainwater drains and gutters.
Below are examples of photos taken during our inspections.
It was pointed out to the contractor that the roof needed to be properly cleaned before applying the primer.
Image shows correctly installed underlay
The image shows that there is a constant and consistent bead all around the underlay
The image shows staggered bonded insulation correctly installed. Please have a fire extinguisher on hand in accordance with HSE requirements in case of fire.
The hard edges of the wood are installed correctly at the required height
New wood posts completely and accurately primed
It is especially important to ensure that the VCL (vapor control layer) is installed correctly. This is because condensation issues can occur if the VCL is not installed correctly. In many flat roof structures, the VCL is glued to the deck, and then the layer above is glued to his VCL. These adhesive layers are important in construction because they prevent damage to the roof, especially at the edges, due to wind uplift. Typically, a PU (polyurethane) adhesive is used to bond the insulation to the VCL. The role of the VCL is to prevent moist air from entering the insulation. Therefore, the VCL itself must be completely sealed and properly terminated to the underlay.
During the inspection, we also ensure that the insulation is the correct product (according to specifications), that it is properly glued, and that the adhesive is applied correctly. If your insulation is tapered (where the insulation is cut, creating a dip in the roof), also check that the taper is installed correctly, to avoid problems with standing water, for example.
The next layer will probably be the underlayment. Make sure this is also fully adhered and the wrap is sealed. In the gutters, see the membrane endlap and headlap increased to 150 mm for more robust gutter details. And of course inspect all the other layers and check all the details around the piece.
Content changes after flat roof on-site inspection
In some cases, the work may reveal aspects of the existing roof that were not visible during the survey, and in this case, being present for routine inspections can be particularly helpful. This is an example from Darlington Primary School.
Clear story window illuminating the rear of the toilet block
During the investigation a series of clerestory windows above the existing toilet block were being inspected. These windows must be closed because the re-roof will not fit within the required 150mm rise from the new roof below (which meets current building regulations and has enhanced insulation for better heat retention). was the purpose.
The intention during the design phase was to install a new set of SIGNature Flat Rooflights on the existing deck to provide natural light to the rear of the toilet, with a traditional window also illuminating the front. However, when contractors removed the roof, they discovered that the concrete deck reinforcements could not be installed safely. This problem was discovered during a subsequent field survey.
We discussed this issue with the contractor, client and surveyor and identified that the best way forward was to install LED lighting behind the toilet block to supplement the natural light coming from the other side. This gave us a solid detail at this point in the roof, kept it properly upright, and was a solution that could be implemented within our budget.
Delaying design decisions had other benefits as well. On bright days, toilet blocks have plenty of natural light, but LEDs are cost-effective and can outperform roof lights as they can increase illumination levels in the dark mornings and evenings. Therefore, the result was an overall better solution at no additional cost to the client.
Field inspection of flat roofs is good practice.
When working on a flat roof for a school or other building, make sure your roofing professionals work as a team. Maximize your professional experience, facilitate communication and ensure weekly work inspections are carried out to avoid delays and additional costs.
To find out more about our free initial survey for your school flat roof, visit our Fix Your School Roof microsite or contact us for advice on your project.
If you have any questions, please comment on this post or drop us a line.