Carl Bailey, regional technical manager for Elevate (formerly Firestone Building Products) explains the importance of third-party approval when selecting an EPDM roofing system for residential flat roofs.
Housebuilders are faced with more choice than ever before when choosing an EPDM waterproofing system for residential flat roofs. The number of manufacturers is on the rise, bringing new products to market, many of which are sold through the merchant industry.
Made from a synthetic rubber compound, EDPM single-ply membranes offer a highly flexible and durable solution. But not all EPDM systems are the same. Although at first glance, they may all appear to deliver the same waterproofing benefits, a more thorough look could reveal otherwise. Some products are offered without independent, third-party certification, meaning they may not perform as expected.
Independent assurance
The British Board of Agrément (BBA) is the most widely-recognised independent certification of construction products and systems in the UK. This is a trusted body, which delivers extensive research, auditing, inspections, and testing. A BBA Agrément certificate isn’t mandatory but is seen as a mark of excellence, providing assurance that a construction product is fit for purpose.
The assessment of a product, such as an EPDM waterproofing system, is very thorough, involving an extensive review of the manufacturer’s own product information and testing data, factory visits, surveys with installers, and an analysis of any complaints or issues raised from within the market. These assessments take place every three years to check the product is still fit for purpose and has been tested in line with any regulatory changes.
A BBA Agrément certificate will detail a wide range of information, including the factors which have been assessed to ensure compliance with UK Building Regulations. For an EPDM roofing system these include weather-tightness, fire related properties, wind uplift, resistance to mechanical damage and durability. The certificate will also outline design considerations and installation guidance and confirm whether the product meets relevant requirements set by the NHBC.
Avoiding pitfalls
Selecting an EPDM roof system without the appropriate third-party accreditation poses various risks. Firstly, it is important for housebuilders to recognise that an EPDM membrane alone is not a system. A range of carefully designed and curated components are required to install it successfully and for it function in the right way.
Details of these components and a description of their correct application are all included within the scope of the agrément certificate. Substituting any of the products described within the certificate with alternative brands will invalidate the approval and could risk the membrane not performing to the required standard.
Installing an EPDM system which hasn’t been properly assessed or certified to UK standards will also lead to an uphill battle with Building Control. Another important consideration is that the BBA provides several certification services, including for international standards such as ISO 9001 and ISO 14001.
When a product displays the BBA logo, housebuilders should therefore check the Agrément certificate number is displayed immediately below. This will confirm thirdparty approval of the specific construction product or system. Without this number, the logo could relate to products or systems which fall outside of the certificate.
If in doubt, the validity of a BBA Agrément certificate can be easily checked using a tool on the BBA’s website.
Eliminating risks
Post Grenfell, new regulations are putting safety and quality under the microscope, so housebuilders are advised to consider other factors which will ensure the best possible performance from the system installed.
As well as opting for BBA-certified products, choosing well-established EPDM systems with strong reputations will reduce the risk of any issues further down the line. For example,
Experienced manufacturers will also be able to offer supplementary documentation providing additional data to help housebuilders make an informed choice. This would usually include technical literature, safety data sheets, application guidelines, installation videos.
The bigger picture
The arrival of new products in the EPDM residential market presents both opportunities and challenges for installers purchasing systems through merchants. More innovation means more choice and while that can be positive, it is important for housebuilders to look beyond packaging and marketing claims. Taking the time to check third-party accreditation and the proven expertise of the manufacturer will pay dividends and ensure a roof stands the test of time.
Want to know more?
For more information on Elevate EPDM membranes, please visit www.rdr.link/dap003
