Roof waterproofing is not only a preventive measure to avoid leaks and extend its useful life. As the first line of defense against water, any failure in its sealing can cause dampness, mold, leaks or structural damage.
Traditionally, roof waterproofing has been done with asphalt roofing membranes or bituminous paints, which, although economical, have significant disadvantages: they require welding, are sensitive to heat, can crack over time and do not always allow coating on top.
Table of Contents
Types of Roofs and their waterproofing needs
We must take into account the type of roof to choose the appropriate system, since not all behave in the same way and there is no one-size-fits-all solution.
Pitched roofs
We start with the most traditional in single-family homes and residential buildings: pitched roofs. They are characterized by having a slope of more than 10% and are topped with ceramic tile or concrete as visible exterior cladding.
This type of roof has a ventilated chamber between the structure and the tile, which favors the evacuation of water vapor and improves the overall thermal performance. Its effectiveness depends on the correct placement of the tile, which does not break, shift or lose its overlap.
For this reason, waterproofing under the roof tile is essential in the event of failure of this main covering. With a waterproofing sheet for roofs, such as GURU W-S Air , it is possible to protect the home from inclement weather and from the effects derived from the accumulation of residues (plant residues) on the roof, from a poor execution of the covering and from the breakage of roof parts.
The main characteristics of the waterproofing membrane for roofs include its easy installation, total impermeability to water, high vapor permeability and protection of the structure against the effects of humidity.
Non-trafficable roofs
These are roofs that are not designed to support the passage of people and are only accessed for technical maintenance. They are characterized by having a very slight slope (less than 5%), which makes them more susceptible to flooding if the drainage systems fail.
Walkable roofs
In the case of trafficable roofs, whether they are terrace-type roofs or landscaped roofs, they are characterized by supporting occasional or frequent traffic, to which is added the weight of ceramic, stone or tile coverings. It must, therefore, have a waterproofing system compatible with cementitious adhesives and allow direct installation on top of it.
It must also offer mechanical strength, elasticity and durability, as it will be exposed to structural movements, vibrations and stresses resulting from its use. In addition, it is important that it can absorb small shapes without losing watertightness and that it maintains its performance in the most adverse weather conditions.
The most suitable waterproofing membrane for walkable and non-walkable terraces is GURU’s WATERSTOP. Take note of these complementary products to ensure a perfect installation:
- W-S Mastic: high modulus polymeric MS sealant adhesive
- W-S Din: inside corner reinforcement
- W-S Passtub: heat-sealed pipe reinforcement
- W-S BAND: Reinforcement band
- EASEAL: One-component waterproofing cement for accessories.
and drains for terraces such as:
You can learn more about how to do it, and its advantages here.
Roof rehabilitation
In many older homes where the roof no longer serves its function properly, it is also possible to apply a roof waterproofing membrane without the need for complete dismantling, as the waterproofing membranes can be installed directly on the existing pavement.
Waterproofing of roofs over ceramic tiles
Although the Water-stop roof waterproofing membrane could fulfill this function, we do not want to fail to mention GURU’s G-Flex sheet, an anti-fracture waterproofing uncoupling sheet. This solution is especially suitable for installations on old, irregular or cracked substrates OR LARGE FORMAT CERAMICS with special risk of thermal expansion or movement.
Membranes for waterproofing roofs
As you have seen, the choice of the correct waterproofing system depends not only on the type of roof, but also on other factors such as the use to which it will be put, the slope it may have, the climate of the area or even the condition of the substrate.
GURU’s roof waterproofing systems have been designed to adapt to these variables and offer effective solutions for both new construction and roof renovations.
Learn more about these waterproofing systems in the GURU catalog.
Frequently asked questions about waterproofing pitched roofs and flat roofs
Can I waterproof a roof without removing the existing coating?
Yes, if the substrate is stable and well adhered, you can apply a waterproofing membrane such as G-Flex over the existing mortar, ceramic or pavement.
What is the difference between G-Flex and Water-stop?
Waterstop is a highly effective waterproofing membrane for regular and stable surfaces, compatible with cementitious adhesives (lacking content and naming strengths and highlights). G-Flex is an anti-fracture waterproofing membrane and is designed for old, irregular or at risk of movement supports, so it has greater elasticity and mechanical strength. In roofs with figures or risk of thermal expansion, G-Flex is the safest option. They are equally safe in terms of waterproofing, in fact, if we have to recommend one it would be the Water-Stop)
What maintenance does an already waterproofed roof need?
A well-done waterproofing job requires very little maintenance. However, it is advisable to check the waterproofing once a year, especially after heavy rains. Check for leaf build-up, that the joints are still sealed and that there are no visible tears.
Membranes for waterproofing roofs
As you have seen, the choice of the correct waterproofing system depends not only on the type of roof, but also on other factors such as the use to which it will be put, the slope it may have, the climate of the area or even the condition of the substrate.
GURU’s roof waterproofing systems have been designed to adapt to these variables and offer effective solutions for both new construction and roof rehabilitations.
Learn more about these waterproofing systems in the GURU catalog.