Polyroof protection for school flat roofs
Vandalism accounts for 21% of all crimes in the UK, and is regarded as ‘a big problem’ by 32% of people, according to figures released by the Home Office. Combating vandalism is a huge challenge and recent years have also seen a marked increase in thefts of lead and copper fuelled by the high price of metals.
Schools are especially prone to vandalism and many of the schools built during the 1960s have low level flat roofs which can be easy to climb. Most school flat roofs are waterproofed with a felt/bitumen covering, providing laps and joints that can easily be ripped up by determined vandals. Costs for roof and ceiling repair, plus water ingress damage and classroom disruption, can run into many thousands of pounds.
Polyroof Products Ltd is actively working with LEAs throughout the country to help solve their flat roofing and vandalism challenges. We are also involved in Building Schools for the Future, the £2.2 billion government initiative which aims to renew and rebuild every secondary school in England within 15 years.
Tough, vandal resistant glassfibre reinforced membranes
Polyroof 185 provides optimal toughness and vandal resistance. It is a complete flat roof GRP system, approved by the BBA and durability rated for 30 years. Polyroof 185 is based on specially developed flexible resins that fuse to an exterior grade plywood deck. The resilience of the system easily accommodates structural movement and the reinforced membrane quickly cures to an extremely tough, impact resistant, seamless finish with no joints to crack or blister.
Being a cold-applied system, Polyroof 185 presents fewer safety risks compared to bitumen boilers and hot torches. This is a particular benefit for schools where normal activities can continue with minimal disruption. Insulation can easily be built into the new roof design to meet Building Regulations requirements.
Polyroof tough, vandal resistant membranes can be supplied in architectural finishes that replicate lead and copper, such as standing seams and lead roll effects, by using preformed fiberglass trims manufactured at Polyroof’s factory in Flint, North Wales. The Polyroof system is lower in weight and has no scrap value, which is why it is also widely used to replace stripped and vandalized lead roofs in schools, churches and public buildings.
Overlay systems for school roof refurbishment
Polyroof Products also offer a range of BBA approved overlay systems for when the substrate is structurally sound but additional waterproofing or flat roof protection is needed. Products include Elastex, a highly flexible polyurethane overlay membrane and Protec, a single system polyester overlay. Other specialized products are available such as Roofcoat Plus for the sealing and protection of asbestos and metal sheeted roofs.
Cold applied liquid systems are rated favourably under BREEAM (BRE Environmental Assessment Method) because when they reach the end of their service life they can easily be rejuvenated by over-coating. This simple procedure gives further protection for decades to come, while reducing waste by not having to strip the old roof covering. Similarly in the unlikely event of damage occurring to the membrane, local repairs can be carried out quickly and easily.
Watertight protection and watertight guarantees
All Polyroof systems are available in a range of colours and finishes including anti-slip mineral finishes for foot traffic areas, balconies and walkways. Polyroof 185 comes with a 20-year insurance backed guarantee which is fully transferable, while flexible guarantees of 10-25 years are available for the overlay products subject to substrate conditions and client requirements.
Unlike traditional coverings, Polyroof’s advanced systems do not attract moss or fungal growth and there is no need for messy stones to deflect heat during summer months. The cross-linking nature of the polymers used means that once Polyroof systems are cured they will not melt or soften under extreme heat as will bitumen based roof coverings. This quality also helps Polyroof systems to achieve EXT.F.AA rating when tested to BS 476 fire safety standards.
Being a free flowing liquid ensures a watertight seal around skylights and other protrusions. Polyroof systems also make the ideal waterproofing membrane for green roofs - living roofs that provide educational value as well as their well documented environmental benefits.