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How to cover a flat roof. Flat roof. The structure of the roofing pie

All city high-rise and industrial building These are houses with flat roofs. Moreover, today many who love modern style in architecture prefer to have a flat roof in their private homes. It really looks stylish, but, among other things, houses with such a roof are more functional - they can be equipped with a winter garden or use the roof as a place to relax in the warm season. Therefore, we immediately proceed to the description of the installation steps and consider in detail its device.

A flat roof is great for those who use it as an open floor.

The subtleties of installation and the design of the roofing "pie"

Installation of a flat roof involves the presence of a roofing "pie". It has high heat-shielding properties that prevent overheating of the attic in summer time and keep warm in winter. In addition, the roofing “pie” is able to prevent the formation of condensate, the insulation will be protected from moisture, and icing and icicles will not appear on the roof. It is important to observe its correct device.

The design of the roofing "pie" involves the presence of several layers:

bearing base;
vapor barrier layer;
multilayer insulation;
hydroprotection.

You should start by preparing the foundation. It needs to be leveled, cleaned, cracks in concrete filled with polyurethane sealant, based on a consumption of 180 g per 1 running meter with a joint width of 5 cm and a depth of 0.3 cm. The next step is priming using an epoxy primer. On porous surfaces, you will need 0.2 kg per 1 sq.m, on non-porous surfaces - 0.12 kg. The primer is mixed with a low-speed mixer until a homogeneous mass is obtained, after which it is diluted ½ with water. Apply to the surface with a paint roller or brush. After all of the above, the base surface can be reinforced. For this, a special mastic is applied (14 kg per 1 cubic meter). Before polymerization, a construction bandage is laid on it, and after polymerization, another layer of mastic is laid.

Any roof needs a vapor barrier. For this, polypropylene and polyethylene films are used, which are fastened with nails or binders or glued. At the same time, it is necessary to maintain a 10 cm gap for ventilation so that steam does not accumulate under the film. The thermal insulation material must adhere tightly to the roof surface, pipes and ventilation units.

Roof insulation and thermal insulation materials

Insulation is responsible for maintaining warmth and comfort in the house. Properly selected thermal insulation materials will not only bring comfort to its walls, but will also significantly save on heating. Therefore, you should always pay attention to such qualities of roof insulation as low thermal conductivity, fire safety, vapor permeability, which is necessary for good ventilation of the room; resistance to moisture and various mechanical damage.

It is very important that the material of which the insulation consists is resistant to point loads. In 80% of cases of damage to roofs, they are the cause of many problems. The main ones are:

violation of waterproofing, as a result of which moisture reaches the roofing “pie” and destroys it;
causing serious damage during a thaw due to freezing of snow;
the appearance of "cold bridges" that increase heat loss.

To protect the roof from such troubles, you need to ensure that everything happens in accordance with all the rules and regulations of construction, and you also need to control the quality of the materials used. One of the most common materials, without which thermal insulation is indispensable, is stone wool. It is very easy to install and withstands temperatures up to 1000°C. In addition, polyurethane foam, foam concrete, foam glass and extruded polystyrene foam are often used as roofing heat-insulating material. Let's take a closer look at each type of material.

Polyurethane foam (PPU) is highly adaptable and has additional waterproofing properties. However, it cannot be left as a finishing coating, since ultraviolet radiation on the PPU will make it brittle and reduce its service life, insulation is its main purpose. But this material has good maintainability and is easily amenable to local repair. For 1 cubic meter, 60-80 kg of polyurethane foam will be needed. This amount is due to the fact that polyurethane foam is prone to burning, but its use in this particular ratio reduces its combustible qualities. When exposed to direct fire, PPU melts, and when the source of fire is eliminated, it instantly fades.

Foam concrete has a higher thermal conductivity compared to polyurethane foam, so reliable insulation will be obtained if its thickness and material costs are higher, on average, 250 kg per 1 cubic meter. However, this increases the load on the roof above the roof.

Extruded polystyrene foam refers to plate materials for thermal insulation. Warming with its use has become very widespread and is very popular due to the ease of installation. The slabs are tightly laid over the entire surface and glued together, after which the roof is considered to be fully insulated.

Thermal insulation using stone wool implies a laying method identical to the previous one. The difference lies in the material itself. Stone wool slabs usually have two degrees of density. The side with increased density is often marked with a black stripe. This side of the plate should lie up.

Foam glass is laid on a flat, dry surface filled with molten bitumen. Blocks of foam glass are superimposed at some distance from adjacent blocks and move towards them diagonally. To fix the position of the plate and remove excess bitumen from under it, you need to press your foot in the middle. Foam glass is high-strength, resistant to high temperatures and many acids, has low thermal conductivity, which ensures maximum insulation. However, its high cost often makes it less attractive for use as a thermal insulation material.

It can be carried out in many ways, but the most popular of them is bituminous. Let's stop on it. Bituminous mastic is stirred with a drill with a nozzle for 5 minutes. The first layer is made more liquid than subsequent ones. It is applied with a density of 90-120 g per 1 sq. cm. The next layer of bitumen is applied after the previous one has dried, after about 10-12 hours. The more layers there are, the higher the protection.

Features of a flat roof device

The device of flat roofs divides them into operated, non-operated, inversion and traditional. The device of the inverted roof is different in that the thermal insulation layer is located above the waterproofing, and not below it. This allows you to protect it from ultraviolet radiation, mechanical damage, temperature changes. does not imply additional use of the roof, its installation is most affordable. involves the active use of the roof surface (the presence of a sports or helipad, a cafe). In this regard, its device is more expensive than the device of non-exploited roofs, but also more durable.

Despite the fact that the roof is called flat, it still has a slight slope (1-4%). This design allows precipitation to descend on its own. The device of any roof structure must withstand a load of 200 kg per 1 sq.m, its own weight and the weight of the roof covering. Therefore, it is laid on durable reinforced concrete slabs 4-5 cm wide and 40 x 40 cm in size to increase reliability.

Flat roofing is one of the easiest and most convenient installation methods.

Therefore, the construction of a flat roof is quite often involved in the construction of residential buildings and industrial-type buildings.

The article discusses the functions, advantages and disadvantages of a flat roof on wooden beams, the stages of its installation (demolition, creation of a drain and a roofing pie, installation of parapets).

Depending on the type of roofing, the flat roof device is divided into 4 separate types:

exploited;
unexploited;
inversion;
traditional.

Positive and negative points

The device of a flat roof in frame houses on wooden beams is gaining more and more popularity every year.

The installation technology of such an exploited roof is so simple that even a non-professional can cope with this task with a small amount of construction work.

Even though it is called flat, it is still not horizontal.

When recreating it, a small technological bias is still very important - for 1 m of length it is 1.5-2.5%, provided that it is an exploited space.

In all other cases, this slope, according to SNiP, must be at least 3-10%.

If a we are talking on the service life of the coating (corrugated board) on frame house, then it directly depends on the professionalism of the builders who were involved in its construction.

But at the same time, an important role is played by the choice of materials, the properties of which must correspond not only to the terrain, but also to other parameters.

In regions with moderate rainfall, corrugated roofs are most often constructed. Laying corrugated board on a flat roof is carried out directly on the floor beams.

It is important that the technology of installation and installation of flat roofs is observed, since any deviations from the specified standards, when using low-quality materials, can cause a decrease in the life of not only the roof, but the building itself as a whole.

Advantages:

The device of a flat exploited roof based on rolled materials is considered an example of simplicity and minimalism, from an architectural point of view:
Smaller area, and therefore savings in materials;
Long service life of a roof from a professional flooring;
Simple installation technology and the device of a flat covering from a professional flooring;
Convenience during professional examinations and repair of the exploited roof of a house from corrugated board;
The possibility of using this site for a cafe or a green lawn;
Stability of roll materials under any weather conditions.

Important conditions:

High strength, which is very important during periods of heavy snowfall, when it is under pressure from snow and ice. This indicator must be taken into account when the roof is in operation;
The use of materials in the construction of a flat roof of a private house, which are able to withstand severe frosts and hot sunlight;
The roof must be heat-insulated and fireproof, according to SNiP.

Operated and non-operated types of coatings

The technology of the device of a flat exploited roof implies the wear resistance and strength of rolled materials.

Due to this, it is able to be homogeneous even with fairly strong uneven and long-term loads.

Such a roof is suitable for walking on it, like a corrugated roof.

Non-exploited corrugated roofing is less wear-resistant, due to the lack of a rigid base in it.

But at the same time, a corrugated roof is more durable and does not need special care.

The device of operated flat roofs today is carried out using the following materials:

Use of roll materials;
The use of polymer membranes;
Use of asphalt and bituminous mastics;
Application of materials with liquid rubber.

The device of a flat exploited roof made of corrugated sheets differs in the design of a roofing pie from any other roof.

A vapor barrier is laid on top of the ramp.

To date, several subspecies are known:

directed;
membrane;
bulk.

Flat roof mounting scheme using different materials consists of the following steps:

Vapor barrier with glassine, polyethylene film, roofing material;
Warming with mineral wool, expanded clay, polystyrene;
Gravel spreading device;
The device of a bulk cement-sand or asphalt concrete screed;
Priming screed;
The device of rolled roofs from polymeric membranes;
Installation of overhang and parapet from steel sheets;
External drainage system;
Installation of funnels for water drainage.

How is a flat roof slope created?

The formation of stagnant zones, thawing and freezing, the appearance of vegetation adversely affects the roof, reducing its service life.

The decompression device helps to combat these phenomena. SNiP, regulating their device, contribute to the flow of water to the funnels from the parapet, even with damage to the roof.

There are several ways to create a slope on the exploited roof of a house:

With backfill heaters;
On heat-insulating plates;
With the help of concrete mixtures.

by the most economical option for the device of flat roofing on wooden beams is the use of wedge-shaped plates made of polystyrene foam.

This method is considered the least laborious, in contrast to the demolition using a cement-sand screed. The most optimal is the creation of a slope with a slope of 1.7-2%.

All construction and repair work is carried out strictly in accordance with the requirements of SNiP, and therefore soft roof— is no exception.

For construction companies, SNiP are the rules that guide the performance of work. Only in this case the coating will be durable and strong.

To work with each of the rolled roofing materials, there are standard technological maps that describe a detailed diagram of the process of building a flat roof.

When creating a typical map, the requirements of SNiP for roofing must be taken into account.

So, when installing a flat roof of a house from rolled materials, SNiP II-26-76 is considered the main regulatory document.

In addition, the provisions of SNiP 3.04.01-87 are used, with a description of finishing and heat-insulating coatings, as well as requirements governing labor safety when performing such work.

Drainage system on a flat roof

The device of an internal drain on flat roofs of the house helps to eliminate moisture. The best option is to organize an internal drain.

To do this, the funnels are evenly distributed over the surface of the roof, carrying out the removal of water flows during heavy snowfalls and showers, preventing flooding. This is the main function of the drain.

The system of internal drainage and slopes is an indicator of roof care.

This suggests that it is important to inspect funnels, cleaning them of dirt, leaves, and also repair or replace them in a timely manner.

The device of an internal drain and slope is a sanitary standard, the miscalculations of which are carried out specifically for each individual case.

Initially, many people believe that the device of an internal drain and slope is not so important for residential buildings, however, a large functional load is assigned to it.

SNiP provides for the mandatory presence of an internal drain to protect structures from adverse effects.

It is important to perform the internal drainage device correctly, since if even small mistakes are made, there may be problems later.

At the time of compilation construction project it is important to plan for the presence of a drain.

Making a roofing cake

The installation conditions of the operated roof provide for the mandatory presence of a roofing pie, as it prevents heat loss. Protecting the roof from overheating is also one of the functions of the roof threshold.

The device of a roofing cake for a flat roof implies the presence of such layers:

base;
steam insulation;
insulation;
hydroprotection.

Each of the elements of the roofing pie performs its function. If the work on creating a roofing pie was performed in violation of the instructions, then the entire system will not function correctly. As a result, the work will have to be completely redone.

During the creation of a roofing pie, the following points are performed:

steam isolation;
creating a crate;
insulation installation;
work with waterproofing;
ventilation system.

Subject to all the requirements for the construction of a roofing pie, you can be sure of a positive result of the work carried out.

For many, a flat roof is associated with urban high-rise buildings, faceless and monotonous. But we are ready to surprise you! A flat roof in a private house will be a pleasant discovery for you if there is not much snow in your area, but the winds are strong enough. The fact is that in winter all snow accumulations from such a roof will simply be blown away. And the main thing is that not a single strong hurricane will be able to tear off the roof, which simply does not exist! And before you opens up a whole ocean of possibilities that now you can build over your head: a cafe, a dance floor, a mini-garden and even a whole greenhouse!

The main thing is to know about all the intricacies of building houses with a flat roof, and everything will work out. And now we will reveal all the secrets.

Pros and cons of this design

Here are the main advantages of a flat roof for a private house:

Such a roof is much smaller in area than the most gently sloping pitched roof. And this is saving on materials.
Such a roof is being built much faster than a gable roof, and even more so a hip roof.
Comfort and safety of all rafter works. You still need to manage to fall from such a roof!
Convenient subsequent repair and change of roofing.
Unlike a gable roof, the dismantling of the old flat roof is usually not needed - this is additional waterproofing and protection. The new pie is made exactly like the old one, which saves a lot of time and effort.
The ability to use the roof as an additional useful area where you can set up a flower garden, make an open terrace and even build a greenhouse.
The ability to install transparent roof elements (with careful waterproofing), and thus make a view of the night sky.
Possibility to build a house of laconic architectural form. Minimalism is at the height of fashion!

And now for the pros and cons:

Such a roof generously accumulates snow in itself. After all, now he has nowhere to roll, and the snow itself often causes leaks.
On especially generous days, the snow will have to be removed mechanically, which often damages the roofing.
The structure of the roof is becoming more complicated: now we need gutters, which, in addition to everything else, are clogged.
The difference is that water drains from the pitched roof rather quickly (and it happens that it does get into the under-roof space). But on a flat surface, it generally stands!

Monitoring the moisture content of the insulation and the general condition of the roof should be regular.

But, despite the fact that for its arrangement building materials you need much less than for a pitched roof, a flat roof in terms of installation is much more complicated. Let's just say, there are a lot more different subtleties and nuances that are important to know about.

That is why many people have fair doubts about the reliability of such a roof. But the European and overseas experience of private residential buildings with a flat roof is successful, and therefore you can safely get down to business.

Consider only such points:

There is much more snow in Russia than in warmer European countries.
Worse than snow is only a big difference between summer and winter temperatures, which not all foreign roofing materials are designed for.

And here technology is everything!

What is a flat roof?

So, what acts as the supporting base of a flat roof:

Reinforced concrete slab.
Roof sandwich panels.
Reinforced steel sheet.

And thanks to the fact that they learned to make a flat roof “breathable”, i.e. with internal ventilation, it has now become possible to use completely non-breathing waterproofing - roofing felt like it.

Any roof that we call flat, in fact, still has a slight slope: to one side or purposefully towards the drainpipe.

Here is the simplest example of a flat roof for a private house:

Types of flat roof: unexploited and inverted

Cheaper, of course, cost unexploited roofs. And exploited, which are correctly called "inversion", include additional materials.

A separate type of flat roof of a residential building is exploited. Those. the one on which people will walk and what objects will stand. This is the same garden, or sports ground, or summer cafe. All this creates considerable loads on the roof, and therefore its device is already different from the one that is intended only to protect the house from precipitation.

So, the main difference in the arrangement of traditional and inverted roofs is that in the first layer of thermal insulation is under the waterproofing, which is quite logical, and in the second - above it. But in the second version, the waterproofing is more protected from ultraviolet rays and temperature extremes. This design is more durable and functional: you can safely arrange a lawn or lay paving slabs on it.

And now in more detail.

Unexploited roof: standard pie

But a person can also occasionally climb onto an unused roof - for the same repair, for example.

Those. in a traditional flat roof, the top layer is waterproofing, and it is she who is subjected to all mechanical and thermal stresses.

Its separate type is a roof with a pressure layer, which is designed for the fact that a person can walk on it from time to time:

Inversion Roofing: Reverse Pie

The standard slope of an inverted roof is 5-7%. The inversion method assumes that the thermal insulation layer is already located on top of the waterproofing, which now also serves as a vapor barrier.

Moreover, the cake of inversion flat roofs can be very different. It all depends on what you are going to arrange on the roof: a terrace, a mini-pool (and this is not uncommon) or a garden. But the foundation will still be common: a monolithic screed is made that levels the entire surface, then waterproofing is laid and all this is covered with insulation. And on top already - a cement-sand mixture or a rubber coating.

Note that the active operation of the roof is frequent damage to the insulating layer, due to which moisture makes its way to the insulation and freezes in winter. Over time, the entire roofing cake deteriorates, and therefore a flat roof cannot do without a ventilation system.

The cement-sand screed is able to distribute the pressure layer on the heat insulator even better, but it must be additionally reinforced with a cracking mesh.

The subtleties of flat roof insulation

A layer of thermal insulation for a flat roof is required. For comparison: a gable roof is insulated only when a residential attic is equipped under it, and in all other cases, a maximum of mineral wool is laid on the floor of the attic. But for a flat roof, insulation is always necessary.

The fact is that without a heat-insulating layer in a flat roof, condensate will constantly appear on the ceiling in the house (such a roof will just turn out to be the cold part on which water vapor rushes). And this is bad not only because it will have to be repaired, but also because the whole structure deteriorates in this way.

You can insulate a flat roof both from the outside and from the inside - the difference is small. More importantly, in how many layers a particular roof needs to be insulated - in one or two.

Heat-insulating materials must be fixed to the base of the roof mechanically, both with screws or dowels, and with glue. Sometimes the mount is not used at all if the heat insulator is located outside, and paving slabs or pebbles press on it.

Why two layers? The fact is that the first layer of thermal insulation on a flat roof performs the function of a heater, it is from 70 to 200 mm thick. And the second, from 40 to 50 mm, is designed to distribute all the loads. And it is important to calculate the thickness of both layers accurately, based on climatic features terrain and the future use of the roof itself.

With two-layer insulation, all joints should go apart, in a checkerboard pattern, so as not to fall on each other. Moreover, in the places where the plates adjoin the walls and the parapet, it is additionally necessary to make heat-insulating bumpers. The cement-sand screed is able to distribute the pressure layer on the heat insulator even better, but it must be additionally reinforced with a cracking mesh.

Proper drainage system

But this is already a difficult task. Flat roofs are just bad because they are completely open to rain. But everything is solved! The main thing is to properly organize the drain, and for convenience, we have revealed this issue for you in such schematic illustrations:

Internal ventilation device

Another important point when arranging flat roofs - ventilation. The fact is that if moisture randomly enters the insulation, it no longer evaporates - it only accumulates. As a result, the heat-insulating material rots, and the waterproofing swells. And there are many reasons for leaks: broken waterproofing, mechanical damage to the top layer of the roof, cracks and damage from frozen water.

A wet heat insulator is also bad because of it bubbles and cracks appear on a flat roof in the summer heat - all due to the active evaporation of water. As a result, the roof covering is also destroyed. And if moisture eventually gets under the old screed, then the entire roof begins to flake off. That is why a flat roof must "breathe".

For this purpose, so-called aerators are used on it. In appearance, these are simple plastic or metal pipes covered with umbrella caps. They should be placed evenly over the entire area of the roof, preferably at its highest points. The essence of such a mechanism is that inside the roof is created different pressure and the air begins to create currents, along the way, taking with it all the excess moisture vapor.

In practice, it looks like this:

In addition, in any living space, water vapor rises up to the ceiling. Moreover, they often successfully overcome this barrier (the water molecule is quite small) and already get into the insulation, which is bad for him. That is why vapor barrier is required. And not the one that is usually used to insulate the attic, but dense, made of high-quality polypropylene or polyethylene. The bituminous membrane is even more reliable.

Choosing the right roofing

So, what is used as a coating for such roofs?

Option #1 - bitumen and polymer-bitumen materials

Such roofs cost the owners of private houses the cheapest. Basically, we are talking about roofing material and euroroofing material. These are rolled roofing sheets, which are based on synthetic fabric, and on the sides are bitumen. As an elastic and frost-resistant material, bitumen serves as an excellent protection and waterproofing.

Moreover, the installation of bituminous roofing on a flat roof is absolutely simple, you only need a gas burner. The rolls are easily fused together.

But such a roof has a significant drawback - fragility. And also the fact that the roofing material does not breathe at all, i.e. vapor-tight, and therefore it is necessary to arrange ventilation for such a roof, unless you want the insulation to rot in a year:

Option #2 - liquid rubber

Such roofs have a huge advantage in that they do not contain any seams. As we have already said, the disadvantage of a flat roof is, first of all, that snow accumulates on it, which then causes leaks.

But there are subtleties here. So, liquid rubber for a flat roof should be taken only two-component, preferably the highest quality. And it is extremely important to correctly apply this material on a flat roof: evenly, avoiding unnecessary layers and savings in certain places. So, where the paint was applied unevenly, problems should be expected after 8-10 years.

Option #3 - PVC, TPO and EPDM membranes

Roofing membranes are valuable as flat roof coverings in that they allow steam to escape. After all, no matter what the vapor barrier used, moisture still at least a little, but gets into the insulation, not only from below, but also from above - after heavy rains, for example.

There are three types of membranes for the installation of such a roof: TPO, PVC and EPDM. The most popular is PVC membrane, it is also the most combustible. The EPDM membrane is more durable and affordable, but if mechanical damage occurs in it, nothing can fix it, while the PVC membrane is enough to melt with a hairdryer. In addition, the joints of the EPDM membrane must be glued with a special tape, which is much less reliable than the adhesion of PVC sheets.

But the cheapest membrane in its sector is PVC. But it has such significant disadvantages as low resistance to ultraviolet rays and fear of contact with bitumen, various oils and even polystyrene foam, otherwise the service life is significantly reduced.

Bonding EPDM membranes requires professional skills. TPO membrane, like PVC, is also hot air weldable. It is not afraid of the best ultraviolet, it is more chemically resistant and can be laid directly on polystyrene foam or old bituminous roofing without geotextiles. But its service life is shorter than that of EPDM, therefore, for the installation of a flat roof of a residential private house, we recommend using a PVC membrane.

So, the pie of a flat roof device with a PVC membrane is traditionally made like this:

Step 1. We arrange a monolithic floor slab.
Step 2. We put a tear-resistant vapor barrier film.
Step 3. We make a ramp out of insulation or screed.
Step 4. We put a heater. In private construction, this is usually foam with 35 density, and on top - XPS with 50 mm, which is even stronger.
Step 5. Now geotextile, 300-500 g per square meter.
Step 6. We turn to waterproofing - this is the PVC membrane. The density of the insulation is sufficient to walk on such a roof. But, if you plan to make an open terrace on the roof, then the cake needs to be continued further.
Step 7. Lay the geotextile again - now directly on the membrane.

We lay rubber tiles or reinforced screed 5-7 cm, on which we already lay paving slabs. To make a screed, you need ballast.

And such roofs are made of rubber, polymers or even foil. Unlike bituminous, they are durable, fire resistant and hold firmly to the base. They reach a slight slope with the help of expanded clay concrete or concrete screed.

How to achieve 100% waterproofing?

The main task when installing a flat roof is to make all joints and junctions as airtight as possible. After all, such a roof is most affected by moisture, hail, temperature changes and wind-blown debris. Therefore, the sealants used for sealing such joints must be of high quality and resistant to any influences. This is also a kind of expense that you have to go to.

For the same purpose of waterproofing, the slope of a flat roof is recommended to be at least 2%. Few? In fact, this is quite enough so that all atmospheric moisture does not linger on the surface, but flows down into funnels and pipes, and from them already into a septic tank, soil or sewer. Therefore, even at the design stage, you need to accurately think over the future drainage system.

Moreover, the drainage system itself is made both internal and external. So, the internal drainage system is a fitting - funnels located throughout the roof, which receive flowing water and direct it to pipes that go through buildings, but are isolated from living quarters. The only disadvantage of such a system is that the pipes are clogged with small debris and leaves, for which it is desirable to provide them with special filters and clean them periodically.

External drainage systems are already attached to the outer walls of the building. Of course, it is easier to clean such ones when they are clogged, but in cold weather they often freeze over. For which it is additionally customary to supply them with electrical heating in the form of cables.

As for the material for the internal and external drainage system of a flat roof, PVC or metal is quite suitable. Both options have their pros and cons. So, polyvinyl chloride does not corrode, but is more brittle than metal.

In order for the gutters not to freeze in winter, equip them with roofing thermal cables.

Green area on the roof: fashionable and environmentally friendly

Greenery and recreation areas are often not enough not only for the inhabitants of the "stone jungle", but even for the owners of private houses. The thing is that the same beautiful garden furniture it is not always possible to leave in the courtyard of the house, and beautiful rare flowers in the garden flower bed are often trampled by pets. Therefore, it is not surprising that the green area on the roof has become fashionable among the owners of cottages. Especially if the access to it goes immediately from the bedroom and no one else can disturb your morning peace with a cup of coffee.

There was also a fashion for some cafes to make the roof flat, and put a small greenhouse on it. All the greens - immediately on the table! And it’s profitable, because it’s not so easy to bring fresh dill or onions to the kitchen, and it’s economically profitable - there is where to send kitchen waste. And it's hard to know who borrowed this idea from whom: enterprising residents of private houses with a flat roof, or the best minds in catering. But the fact that such an arrangement of covered ground is beneficial is a fact: rodents will not dig under the beds, insects and pests will not get (as well as pests in the form of neighbors), and the fact that it is always a little hotter on the roof is only a plus for the same tomatoes. But the main thing is to correctly calculate the loads on such a roof during construction!

And the roofing pie often goes standard: waterproofing on the floor, thermal insulation, geotextiles, drainage and again geotextiles. And on top it is already possible both the earth and the beds:

Or in this version for more powerful overlaps:

A flat roof is a huge scope for any fantasy. Designers and architects love to bring to life a variety of projects for her: a garden, a greenhouse, a jogging track, a mini-beach with sun loungers, and much more. Some craftsmen even manage to make a parking lot on it!

I like private houses with a flat roof. Indeed, on such roofs in good weather, you can even have a picnic, cook a barbecue. Such a roof seems to me like a large balcony. But, compared to a balcony, it has unlimited space. And it is much more pleasant and useful to breathe in the fresh air on such a roof, and not in a cramped balcony. And the view from the rooftop is something special.

Be that as it may, it seems to me that in our climatic conditions it is not advisable to arrange flat roofs in private houses, since it is completely non-functional. How many warm and sunny days a year to be able to spend time on a flat roof!? Yes, and as the experience of flat roofs shows in high-rise buildings, they require almost constant maintenance and routine repairs.

Flat roof in a private house: how to build a house with a flat roof

Everything you need to know about flat roofing in a private house: types, technology and rules for successful waterproofing. Analysis of all technological stages.

Flat roof in the house: device, materials and technologies

A flat roof is not only attractive architectural solution, but also the possibility of using its surface for other purposes. For example, on a flat roof, you can equip a great place to relax or a small garden, if this is not possible on the main, “earthly” site. If earlier flat roofs were in demand only for high-rise urban buildings, today this option is becoming increasingly popular among owners of private houses.

Constructivism is a modern fashion trend that captured architects. They create projects of houses that are distinguished by the simplicity of their design, their “highlight” is in a minimum of details. But few of those who are engaged in the construction of a private house or cottage, decide on this "novelty". This is because in our idea of how a house should look, there are certain stereotypes that have been imposed on us since childhood. Remember what houses you drew in your drawings. They all had a standard gable roof. Therefore, while building houses with a flat roof, only people with non-standard thinking decide.

Pros and cons of a flat roof

Meanwhile, it is this type of roof that is quite economical, since much less materials are required for its creation than for a pitched one, because its total area is smaller. But the great advantage of a flat roof is that it can be put to good use. For example, equip it with a cozy terrace, garden and even a pool! By the way, this practice has been used abroad for a long time and with success. Europeans do not waste a single square centimeter of space in vain.

Terrace on the roof of the house

However, in order for you to enjoy the original design and additional functionality of your property, there is one condition: the architect must correctly carry out all the calculations, and the builders must correctly select the necessary components to implement the idea and do the work in accordance with all the rules.

Modern materials guarantee the reliability of a flat coating only if all the work has been carried out in good faith. A flat roof has many advantages, including material savings. In addition, work on installing a flat roof in a house is much easier than a pitched one, as well as caring for it (surface inspection, cleaning funnels, etc.). A flat roof often becomes a terrace or a garden, such landscaping activities are most popular in large European cities due to the difficult environmental situation.

You can see the disadvantages of a flat roof in this video

Flat roof device

A flat roof job is a set of activities after which the roof must be waterproof, fireproof, easy to maintain or repair, and attractive in appearance.

Structurally, the so-called roofing "pie" consists of three layers:

vapor barrier,
insulation,
waterproofing.

Roofing pie and flat roof construction

roof base

The basis of this type of roof is usually a load-bearing base, for example, from a metal profiled sheet or a reinforced concrete slab. On top of it, installers lay a heat-insulating material that protects the top layer of insulation from moisture. By the way, if the slightest mistake is made while working on at least one layer, then the entire roof structure will eventually suffer.

Builders pay special attention to such elements as sealing seams, fasteners, through holes, corners, drains, communications. It is they who during the operation of the building are subjected to the most serious loads. In addition, it is necessary to select related parts that meet the parameters of weather resistance, corrosion resistance and UV resistance. Their choice should be dealt with directly by the designer, who calculates what exactly and in what quantity is necessary for the implementation of the plan.

At the same time, of course, he also takes into account such indicators as the type of object, the size of the roof and the conditions for its operation. That is, the design and creation of a flat roof must be approached systematically. If the rules for fastening the roofing material are not followed, then due to a strong gust of wind it can tear off the waterproofing. Electrochemical corrosion can lead to loss of bearing capacity of the base. If the funnel becomes clogged or water freezes in it, moisture can overflow the roof, and this is a direct path to its flow.

Roof vapor barrier

The second layer in the building "pie" of a flat roof is a vapor barrier, which is designed to protect the base from water vapor. It allows it not to get wet, otherwise the base will swell and lose its original features.

Next, the insulation is installed. It can be done in two ways: in one and two layers. The latter option is more common. The bottom layer is 70-200 mm thick, according to technology, it performs the main heat-insulating function, on the contrary, the top layer is responsible for the redistribution of the mechanical load. And despite being thinner, it has super strength.

Such a “redistribution” of functions between layers makes it possible to reduce the weight of the roof, and thus the load to which the ceilings are subjected.

Water vapor is constantly formed inside the house, which cools as it rises, which is why water drops appear under the roof. This process is most intensive during the cold season. The collected water negatively affects the structural elements. Due to excessive moisture, wet spots appear on the ceiling and walls, mold and flowering form. If moisture collects in the heat-insulating material, it destroys its main functions. This means that you have to pay more for heating the room.

Therefore, during the installation of the roof, it is necessary to pay great attention to ensuring that moisture vapor can freely exit to the surface through the layers of the construction “pie”.

Ventilation with roof fans

A flat roof must be well ventilated, otherwise the coating will not last long. Roof fans are perfect, which will not allow moisture to accumulate and destroy all elements of the coating.

In order to achieve this effect, builders recommend using special roof fans, which are also called aerators. They are ordinary metal or plastic pipes, covered with caps on top, shaped like umbrellas. The design of the roof fan allows moisture vapor to seep freely to freedom.

Scheme of the device of the roof fan - aerator

At the same time, it does not allow bubbles to form, due to which part of the roofing material may peel off. On flat roofs, balloons are mounted at the highest points of the roof perimeter and in those places where heat-insulating plates are joined. Save on ventilation system you can if you install all the elements at the time of the initial installation, and not after - in an already finished structure.

Arrangement of a water drainage system

Although visually the roof of your house will look flat, but it is not so at all. In order to prevent water from collecting on it after precipitation, a slope, although not large, is mounted. It is best if it is in the size of 2 to 5 percent.

In addition, it is necessary to think over the water drainage system. Therefore, an important measure is the installation of gutters on the roof, which will prevent flooding of the roof during precipitation or spring thaws. Otherwise, the roof may start to leak.

In flat roofs, drains are usually represented by internal systems, which are more common in multi-story buildings. Owners of private houses lean towards the traditional option and arrange an external drainage system. It is best to choose PVC gutters - they resist the appearance of frost better than metal gutters. Installing drain funnels or fittings will prevent flooding. Their number depends on many parameters, but on average, one funnel accounts for 200-300 square meters.

Cheaper - use an external drain. It is mounted on one side of the roof or in some of its parts.

Roof maintenance rules

The surface of a flat roof itself is not designed for constant load, that is, you can only walk on it in shoes with soft soles. In general, it is desirable to cover the surface of the roof with special coatings that will provide the roof with better resistance to mechanical stress. The same applies to roof gardening - gardening requires pre-training surfaces.

But, regardless of which system you prefer, you must remember that any roof needs maintenance. You must ensure that funnels and drains do not become clogged with fallen leaves or other debris, no matter how icy they are. In this case, your unusual, fashionable flat roof of the house will please you for a long time and will not require financial injections.

Construction and installation of a flat roof in a private house

Features and technologies for building a flat roof in private houses, photos and tips on choosing materials for roofing.

Flat roof made of corrugated board: insulation, waterproofing

When building your home, building a roof is one of the most important tasks. We propose to discuss how a flat roof is made in a private house with your own hands from corrugated board, its installation, insulation and drainage, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of this type of roofing.

Design features of a flat roof

Modern private builders rarely use flat roofs to cover private buildings, dwellings, mainly these are surfaces that can be covered with a gazebo, the surface of a garage, a bathhouse and other utility rooms. The flat roof is mainly used for multi-storey residential buildings, where design features you can not build a gable roof.

Photo - Flat roof roofing pie

Projects of houses and cottages with a flat roof are distinguished by originality and eclecticism. In addition, you can equip a special roofing cake, thanks to which the lack of attic (inter-roofing) space will play into your hands. There are such types of flat roofs:

Operated roof without an attic, but with the organization of personal space on the roof. main feature such coatings is the need for a rigid (concrete) base of the roof. This is necessary to provide a solid layer of waterproofing. This can be a polycarbonate roofing, often corrugated board acts as an overlap;

Photo - Operated roof

Unexploited roof with attic. This type of roof does not need to create a rigid foundation, it flows extremely rarely, in which case all repairs are carried out in the attic;

Photo - Unexploited roof

A flat traditional roof is when the waterproofing is higher than the insulation. The slope of the roof of the building for water drainage is organized using expanded clay concrete, which is very convenient, the screed can be carried out even from soft tiles;
An inverted roof never leaks, but it has an extremely complex roofing pie. It is the optimal solution for a building of any purpose: a barn, a garage, a summer house, a residential building, a cottage, etc. its section is shown in the photo below.

Photo - Flat roof waterproofing

There is also a flat combined roof - when the roof combines several of the listed types. For example, inversion and traditional.

Highly simple design, there are no special principles for installing rafters, frames and other beams;
Easy calculation of roofing materials;
You can use the surface of such a roof as a foundation for installation various systems directly on the roof: satellite dishes, winter gardens, solar panels, etc.;
Smaller area, unlike a shed or attic (no need for wide overhangs).

But minuses flat non-attic roof are more significant:

Due to the lack of an angle of inclination, it often leaks. Shed, gable and other sloping types of roofs do an excellent job of independently draining water, but for a flat one you need to build a special drain;
Several times a year, a country house will need to be cleaned from the accumulation of foliage and snow on the roof;
Often the funnels of the internal drain freeze due to the lack of an attic.

But still, in view of economy, the disadvantages that a flat roof has are not very significant compared to its advantages.

How to choose a material for a flat roof

Properly selected roofing materials for a flat roof are half the success of the entire construction of a house. Of course, you can stop at a profiled sheet, but it is worth noting that in this case it is necessary to think about how snow removal and drainage will be carried out. The fact is that from the constant exposure to atmospheric precipitation, the metal coating can rust and go out of service earlier than the period declared by the manufacturers.

The roof covering must be perfectly resistant to moisture. Here will serve well:

Let's consider what material for a flat roof is more often used. Construction mastics most commonly used on residential buildings. These are special liquid coatings that are applied to the surface of the roof with a brush, and then solidify, forming an airtight solid substance that looks like rolled materials. They perfectly resist high temperatures - up to 70 degrees, but can crack at low temperatures - up to 25.

Photo - Flat roof

Polycarbonate is more reliable and beautiful than mastics, but it is much more expensive. Its main advantage is its external similarity with glass, so it can be used to create a stylish roof that will emphasize your financial condition. In addition, polycarbonate is chosen for design decoration residential buildings.

Slate previously used for any type of roof, regardless of its slopes. It is very heavy, so to install it, you need to carefully consider the frame and foundation of the building - so that the house does not "settle". The load that is placed on the rafters by slate is perfectly compensated by its durability indicators: it can last up to 50 years in medium-aggressive environments with strong pressure and temperature drops. Now it can be replaced by aerated concrete, which is lighter.

Decking polymer coated is an almost ideal material for covering a flat roof. A dacha, a greenhouse and a house with such a surface may not be afraid of temperature extremes, ultra-low degree indicators, but a snow cushion is fatal for them. It is necessary to ensure that the metal is periodically cleaned of precipitation, so work out natural cleaning systems.

Photo - Flat roof made of corrugated board

More rarely, but still, a wooden flat roof is used. Its durability indicators are relatively low, but the tree will help protect the roofing material or the same mastics. Timber roofs are mainly used in complex design projects.

Flat roof installation

Consider how a flat exploited roof is installed on square houses, as well as how to insulate this type of coating.

To get started, we need drawings. You can develop them yourself (using ArchiCAD, AutoCAD, etc.) or ask for help from the design services bureau. This item is necessary in order to develop cornice connections and a work plan. On the diagram, you need to indicate the junction of beams, rafters, the principle of laying insulation and waterproofing;
Now you need to lay aerated concrete slab on the surface of the building. It will help create the desired rigidity of the coating;
Next, we develop a water drainage system - this is the most difficult thing in the entire construction of a flat roof. Regardless of the chosen type of such a roof, be sure to make a slope of 5 degrees near the parapets. In the drawing, divide the roof into several conditionally equal zones, their size depends on the type of funnels chosen, most often it is 100 square meters. Where there is a slope of the roof, funnels with nets should be installed so that they stop debris. After all the funnels must be connected with pipes, which are allowed to be located both inside and outside the room (depending on the needs and possibilities);
It remains to organize vapor barrier and waterproofing. We need to lay a layer of material on the stove that will protect it from the effects of condensate from the room, it can be TechnoNiol, TechnoProv and others. The most commonly used universal reinforced fiberglass, it also helps to insulate the roof surface. At the joints of the roof and walls, you need to make this layer a little higher, and solder its edges with mastics. It is best if you work in one piece with a minimum number of joints;

Photo - Roof vapor barrier

Frame houses with a flat roof must be protected from moisture. This will help the bituminous coating on top of the vapor barrier. Remember, repairs to the waterproofing on the outside of the roof must be done every year and checked periodically, otherwise the roof will start to leak. Be sure to seal joints near funnels and walls;
Can be different variants roof insulation, for example, without or with an attic. If you use corrugated board with thermal insulation, then you can generally do without this item.
The technology we describe may vary slightly depending on which flat roofing materials you choose, but the principle of pie construction is basically always the same.

A flat roof is a universal type of construction, it has an excellent combination of price and quality, but there are significant drawbacks in the form of a complex gutter system. When choosing such a roof, weigh all the advantages and disadvantages very well.

Flat roof: how to do it yourself

Instructions on how to make a flat roof for a private house with your own hands. Tips for choosing material for a flat roof.

Ordinary flat roofs differ from their pitched counterpart not only in design, but also in slope, which in the first case should be minimal and within 1-4 degrees. Due to the fact that precipitation on a flat roof is not removed as efficiently as on a pitched counterpart, special requirements are placed on coatings for tightness and durability. If you choose good roofing materials for a flat roof, then it will last a long time without leaks.

The roofing of a flat roof should be a solid moisture-resistant carpet, so coatings such as flexible tiles and trendy ondulin are not suitable, despite their effectiveness on pitched roofs and high decorative performance.

Tightness and a minimum of seams are the main requirements for flat roof coatings. That is why only the following materials can cope with such tasks:

special mastics;
polymeric membranes;
roll materials based on bitumen.

The materials listed above are strong and elastic enough to perceive mechanical stress and temperature changes. However, they have their own differences, which consist in durability, installation methods, cost and functionality. To choose the best roof, it is necessary to study the features of each of the coatings.

Polymer membranes

The coating of polymer membranes in our country began to be used not so long ago, but has already gained popularity. This is the newest type of roll coatings, which are well tolerated by temperature changes, any mechanical stress and are elastic.

Important: membrane materials are sold in rolls, the length and width of which reaches several tens of meters, which allows you to equip roofs with a minimum number of seams and high tightness.

Such coatings received great popularity for:

their durability, because they can last up to half a century;
as well as for the speed of installation (laying by professionals is 1.5 times faster than installation of a rolled bitumen coating).

There are three varieties of this material depending on the polymer base: EPDM, TPO and PVC. Let's consider each type in more detail.

PVC

Polyvinyl chloride reinforced with polyester mesh is used as the basis for PVC membranes. To increase the elasticity of the material, volatile plasticizers were introduced into its composition, which occupy approximately 40% of its composition. These plasticizers are gradually released after the material has been laid.

Worth knowing: PVC membranes are produced in several colors, but they fade over time.

During the installation process, the material panel is first fixed mechanically, by means of telescopic fasteners. Then the second sheet is overlapped with welding of joints by means of hot air. Diffusion welding can also be used for these purposes. In this case, a special solvent is applied to the seams. After that, the edges of the panels are whipped and loaded.

TPO membranes

This flat roof material is based on special thermoplastic olefins. Polyester mesh or fiberglass is used as a reinforcing layer. But there are also non-reinforced products on sale, since they can cope with their tasks without additional reinforcement.

This material is better than its PVC counterpart, since it does not contain volatile plasticizing compounds that are harmful to environment. Among all membrane materials, TPO products have the highest frost resistance, as they can withstand temperatures down to -62°C.

Important: strips of TPO-material are connected into a continuous monolithic surface by means of a jet of heated air.

EPDM

This roll material for flat roofs is made on the basis of rubber. It is reinforced with fiberglass or polyester mesh. In addition to pure EPDM, there are composite products with a top layer of rubber and a bottom layer of bituminous polymer.

Among the advantages of EPDM it is worth mentioning the following:

Compared to other roofing materials, EPDM membranes have increased elasticity, which is 400%.
The low price is another plus of these products.
Since EPDM is not sensitive to bitumen and modifications of this substance, they can be laid directly on the old bituminous roof without first dismantling it. This greatly facilitates the process of repairing the roof.

The installation of the EPDM membrane is carried out by joining two strips of the sheet at the overlapping point using a self-adhesive tape. However, this method is not as reliable as welding, which is used when installing other types of membranes, so it is better to use adhesive compositions during installation. A ballast installation method is also allowed, in which the membrane is fixed with telescopic fasteners and covered with rubble or pebbles from above.

Bituminous materials

These are roll materials that are made from a solid base impregnated with modified or oxidized bitumen. They are sold in rolls approximately one meter wide and 10 to 30 meters long.

If a flat roof is being built, then bitumen-based materials suitable for these purposes are called as follows:

rubemast;
ruberoid;
stekloizol;
euroruberoid.

Ruberoid

This is the most common type of product for waterproofing. Its basis is cardboard, which is impregnated with bitumen. Also, on one or both sides, a protective dressing of talc, sand or asbestos can be made. The service life of a roof made of this material is a maximum of 10 years.

Product advantages:

Minimal water absorption, which guarantees high waterproofing characteristics.
High resistance to atmospheric and mechanical influences.
Affordable price is an additional plus in his favor.
Also, the roofing material is quite simple and quickly mounted. To do this, just roll out the roll and glue it to the base with bituminous mastic carefully gluing all seams.

Among the shortcomings, it is worth mentioning the poor resistance of the material to extreme temperature effects. In the heat of more than 50 degrees, it melts, and in severe frost it begins to crack. That is why such a coating requires frequent repairs and cannot last for a long time.

Rubemast

This is an improved version of the ruberoid. Its basis is also roofing cardboard, but the lower layer of bitumen is thicker and covered with a melted film, which makes it possible to increase the plasticity of the product and protect it from cracking during temperature changes and mechanical stress. On the front side, dust-like dressing or coarse-grained spraying is made.

Important! The service life of rebumast is longer than that of its bituminous counterpart - roofing material, and reaches 15 years.

It is referred to as built-up materials, since laying is carried out by melting the lower layer with a gas burner or special solvents.

Stekloizol

This material is also called glass roofing material. Outwardly, it is no different from the two products listed above, but as a basis it uses fiberglass or fiberglass, which are coated with bitumen. The upper side has a granular dressing, and a fusible film is applied on the back side. It is thanks to this that the installation is carried out by welding.

The benefits include the following:

Unlike cardboard, fiberglass does not rot.
Also, the fiberglass base serves as a kind of material frame, protecting it from cracking and holding flexible bitumen well.
In comparison with other bitumen roll materials, glass isol is the most durable. Its service life reaches 20 years.

Euroruberoid

Euroruberoid is considered the most functional coating among all bituminous materials. This product is based on a bitumen-polymer, since the bitumen in this material is modified with various additives (pieces of rubber, etc.), which give the product increased moisture resistance and flexibility.

Polyester, fiberglass or fiberglass are used as the basis here. They are highly resistant to decay and durable. Bituminous binder with additives and fillers is applied to the base from both sides. On both sides, the web is protected by polymer films or fine-grained bulk materials.

For laying euroroofing material, its lower layer is melted by a burner, after which the material is glued to the roof. This method is used for materials with a polymer film (indicator). If the product already has a self-adhesive layer, then you just need to remove the protective coating and stick a strip of material.

Mastics

To get a monolithic seamless roof, you can use roofing mastics. The service life of such a coating can reach up to 10 years. As a rule, it is a viscous mixture, which, after being applied to the roof surface, hardens in air. Mastics can be used both as a coating on mastic roofs and for gluing roof rolls.

All mastics are divided into hot and cold. The latter are already ready to use, and hot mixes need to be heated before application, but they are more economical and harden faster. All roofing mastics are divided into the following types:

polymer products;
bituminous compositions;
bitumen-polymer mixtures;
bituminous rubber.

Bituminous mastics have the simplest composition and are made on the basis of petroleum bitumen, antiseptic and filler. However, the range of use of bituminous mastic is small, so it is not suitable for mastic roofing.

Bitumen-rubber compounds after hardening form an elastic and durable coating that can withstand extreme temperatures and mechanical stress. These mastics are suitable for roofing and can be used to repair roll coverings.

Bitumen-polymer compositions are obtained by modifying bitumen with artificial waxes, petroleum polymer resins, and rubbers. After drying, you will get a durable flexible coating with high waterproofing characteristics. These mastics are suitable for gluing and repairing roll materials.

As a part of polymeric mastics there is no bitumen. They are made on the basis of polymers and synthetic resins. Such roofing membranes are characterized by high resistance to solar radiation, good elasticity and durability. They are also suitable for repairing rolled roofing and arranging self-leveling roofs.

From the first days of the birth and development of architectural and construction art in the history of mankind, two trends in the arrangement of roofs for buildings and structures have appeared: volumetric pitched and flat horizontal. And if flat roofs initially became widespread mainly in the southern Mediterranean and Asian countries, then pitched vertical ones - in the countries of northern Europe and in Russia.

The explanation for this is quite simple and pragmatic: the roof must provide reliable waterproofing of the dwelling and withstand the load of precipitation accumulating on it. In southern countries with a large number of sunny days, this problem is not so acute and there, as a rule, they choose the least cheap option flat roof. In the northern countries, a pitched roof is a forced measure, albeit more expensive in the construction process.

Flat roof: main features

In our country, until recently, flat roofs were designed only for industrial facilities or high-rise residential buildings, and in low-rise housing construction only traditional gable roofs were used, either. But the improvement of technologies and the building materials market do not stand still, due to which in recent times there has been a clear trend towards the use of horizontal roof structures in individual housing developments. This was especially evident after the removal of restrictions on the area and number of storeys of private housing construction, which determined the mandatory design of attic or attic spaces for their use as residential premises.

Now, when creating a project for a private house or cottage, it is easy to provide for a residential second or even third floor instead of an attic, and on the additionally formed horizontal roof area, you can place a resting place, a sports or fitness area, a small greenhouse, yes, at least an observatory: whoever likes what . All this contributes to the growing popularity of flat roofs in individual housing construction, and modern technologies and building materials make it possible not only to simplify and reduce the cost of building a residential building, but also to provide it with significant strength, reliability and durability.

The main advantage of a flat type of roof is simplicity and low cost. If the cost of arranging a pitched roof can be 20–25%, and in the case of complex, multifaceted configurations, up to 50% of the total construction cost, then investments in a flat structure will mainly be determined by the costs of strengthening and insulating the upper floor, as well as materials and work to ensure waterproofing.

Types of roofing materials for a flat roof

Basically, two types of materials are used for waterproofing horizontal roofs:

In some cases, they can be used in combination with each other. To improve the aesthetic and operational properties of the protective layer, various decorative coatings, ceramic or paving slabs, artificial turf, etc.

Of course, a sloping multi-faceted and multi-profile roof can significantly decorate a building, give it a unique personality, but at the same time, a horizontal roof is more practical and functional. The increased load on the building structure in winter due to the large mass of snow accumulating on it is compensated by a significant reduction in the weight of the roof itself and the use of both modern durable materials and the latest construction technologies in the construction of the walls of the building. Moreover, cleaning a flat roof from snow is a much less laborious process.

The main characteristics of materials for a flat roof

The materials used for horizontal roofs must first of all provide high-quality waterproofing of the entire structure - this is the main requirement for them, and the roofing material usually used for this until now has coped well with this task. But today, increased requirements are imposed on roofing materials:

strength,
light weight,
thermal insulation,
soundproofing,
resistance to solar radiation,
frost and heat resistance,
biostability,
chemical protection,
fire resistance,
durability,
economy,
ease of operation.

And in this competition, traditional roofing products based on paper, cardboard and bitumen are inferior to modern materials in all respects.

Bituminous roll materials

The traditionally used roofing material, roofing felt and glassine, are still widely used today, but their main drawback is their fragility, due to low resistance to frost, ultraviolet, bio- and mechanical effects. This manifests itself in cracking and gradual layer-by-layer destruction, which necessitates re-coating every 10-15 years of operation for roofing material, and when using glassine or roofing felt - 5-10 years. Therefore, they are gradually giving way to new synthetic roll-bitumen roofing based on:

TechnoNIKOL - great material roof roof

Fiberglass, fiberglass and modified bitumen, which have much better strength, durability and other performance characteristics.
- As well as their counterparts from various manufacturers: Linokrom, Stekloizol, Filigis, Bikroelast, Bireplast-Norma, Unikrom, Rubikrom, Bikrost, Rubemast, Hydrostekloizol, Rubestek.

Bitumen-polymer roofing materials made of polypropylene or polyester:

Isoplast EPP 3.0 and 4.0, costing 120 and 140 rubles / sq. m, respectively, used for the lower layer of the protective coating,
Isoplast EKP 4.5, Isoplast EKP 5.0- for the top layer, price - 160 rubles / sq. m,
Isoplast EMP 5.5- high density, with increased requirements for waterproofing, also used for reinforced concrete bases and foundations, price - 180 rubles / sq. m,
and others similar: M ostoplast, Elabit, Luberite.

aluminum foil: Metalloizol and Hydroizol materials used in hydro- and thermal insulation of pipelines have also found application in roofing.

The numbers in the names of materials indicate, as a rule, the weight of 1 sq. m of material.

All of these products allow for a long service life of the roof and very high quality coatings. As a rule, they are produced in rolls 1 m wide and 10 m long.

Video - flat roof waterproofing

Polymer membrane materials

At the heart of such a roof are materials reinforced with plastic mesh:

EPDM membranes - elastomers made from synthetic rubber and polymer resins:
Firestone, 1.15 mm thick, in a roll 6.1x30B5 m, price 320 rubles / sq. m

TPO membranes - thermoplastics based on olefins and polypropylene:

TPO Roofing Systems, 1.15 mm, cost - 70 rubles / sq. m,
Also PVC membranes made of polyvinyl chloride:
LogicRoof V-SR, 1.5 mm, reinforced, price - 56 rubles / sq. m.

Polymer-bituminous material for roofing

These roofing materials are more expensive than polymer bitumen, but they are more resistant to weather conditions, strength, elasticity and, accordingly, durability, which can reach 50 years. In addition, due to its lower weight, approximately 1.3 kg / sq. m, they are produced in a much wider range of roll widths - from 0.9 to 9 m, which allows you to optimally adjust this parameter to the width of the roof, with the smallest number of joints. requires the use of open fire, which is unacceptable on roofs made of combustible building materials. Seams are joined with hot air and adhesive tapes. There are also self-adhesive roofing membranes, which greatly simplifies the coating work. In addition to the appearance of noticeable surface irregularities, this is also a frequent cause of waterproofing failure and leakage as a result of weather effects. Fundamentally different, devoid of this drawback, is a seamless roof covering with special mastics based on hot and cold applied polymer resins. Under the influence of atmospheric oxygen and moisture, a polymerization process occurs in them, creating a strong, waterproof, monolithic and durable coating. This technology is called "floating roof".

Here we should also mention a roof made of "liquid rubber" based on artificial rubber and binders from petroleum polymers. Roller, brush or spray on, this excellent performance coating would be ideal in every way, but its application is hindered by the need to maintain very strict conditions in terms of temperature and humidity of the ambient air, as well as the humidity of the roof surface during work and in the process. vulcanization of the protective layer. In addition to all the undoubted advantages of mastic roofs, there is one more thing - the simplicity and speed of application. This is especially true of cold mastics, the layer of which is leveled over the roof surface with an ordinary hard brush or brush, without requiring preheating. There are mastic materials that are bred not only with organic solvents, but even with water, although their durability is not so high, but simplicity technological process allows you to carry out work at least every year. Before applying such materials, the roof surface must be pre-treated with a primer or primer. This will significantly increase the durability and strength of the protective layer. In addition, combining the technologies of built-up and self-leveling roofing can give an ideal result. Heat-insulating materialsA flat roof, unlike a three-dimensional one, does not create an additional air gap that provides thermal protection for the interior living quarters of the house. However, work on waterproofing a flat roof can be preceded by the creation of an external heat-shielding layer based on modern materials such as:

After laying the heat-shielding layer, waterproofing of the roof is carried out, and the use of additional internal thermal insulation of the premises in the form of suspended or stretch ceilings allows you to fully compensate for this lack of a horizontal roof.

Thus, the use of new high-quality materials and technologies in modern construction allows you to move away from the traditional design of roofs for low-rise housing construction, relying on alternative ideas and methods that help diversify the choice of individual solutions and options. Video instruction - thermal insulation of a flat roof (roof)