Get the Waterproofing Right for Blue Roofing

Blue roofing is fast becoming a new approach to surface water management in typically densely populated UK urban areas. Although not a brand new concept, some of the latest catchment and storage options are high tech and high performance.
 
One of the fundamentally important parts of a blue roofing project has to be to ensure that the waterproofing is right, first time. This is because the nature of the system is that it is installed above the membrane and is designed to capture and hold water for a determined period of time. 

We’re here to help you navigate the complexities of waterproofing for blue and other types of environmental roofing. Let’s take a closer look…

What is blue roofing?

If you’ve been researching environmentally friendlier options for your new flat roof, ‘blue roofing’ is a term you’re bound to have come across. A blue roof system is a complex temporary water storage solution, designed to help authorities better control surface water management.

Systems consist of a water catchment facility, which can be in the form of an open water area or a series of pipes and tanks to capture rainwater. Water is stored before being released at a pre-determined, controlled rate into the local surface water drainage system. 

Available in a range of designs, blue roofing is most commonly found on flat roofs, which simplify installation and operation. Some types of blue roof system have the capacity to utilise the rainwater at domestic level within the building. This is subject to some local authority permissions, but can help to ease the reliance on the mains water supply for watering green roofing, for instance, or flushing toilets.

Planning and design considerations

It is important to spend time planning any roofing project, so think ahead when it comes to green and blue roof systems. Local authority permissions may be required, building regulations and standards may need to be met. These requirements may differ by region and location, so it is wise to seek guidance from your local authority before planning begins in earnest. 

It is worth remembering that in a new build project, there are insulation and thermal performance guidelines that need to be followed. Build this into the planning well in advance to ensure compliance.

Making sure your blue roof is reliably waterproofed

Reliable, durable and high performance waterproofing is needed for blue roofing projects of any size. Choosing a waterproofing system with a long service life is also beneficial, to increase the integrity of the entire roofing system and ensure that the complex blue roof can maximise cost vs. long term value. 

We can recommend two roofing systems that offer the high performance needed:

EPDM Membrane

EPDM membranes offer a range of benefits for flat roof projects. They typically carry a long service life expectancy and bring high performance waterproofing to green and blue roofing. 

At PermaRoof, we stock Firestone Elevate RubberCover EPDM with a service life expectancy of over 50 years. Available in sheets up to 15m x 60m, RubberCover can be installed in a single sheet for most flat roof projects, negating large seams and increasing reliability.
 
We also stock SealEco fleece backed membranes, which are ideal for green blue roofs, having a high puncture resistance. 

Liquid Coatings

Our range of liquid PU coatings truly give a seamless finish, perfect for blue roofs. They are ideal for complex systems where membrane is difficult to reach or those with multiple extrusions.

Professional installation or DIY?

Complex in both design and installation, blue roofs may require the intervention of several professional experts during the various stages. Initially, a structural engineer may be required to assess the existing load bearing capacity, for example, and a specialist system may require specialist installation.
 
Similar to green roofs, blue roofing, with various layers and drainage, is much heavier than a traditional roof covering and it is important to both plan and execute installation in the right order.
 
However, once the system is planned, there are applications that can be suitable for DIY, such as the preparation of the roof deck and applying the waterproofing layer. RubberCover EPDM is fast and easy to apply and can be straightforward for a skilled DIYer. 

Through a network of partners and our National Installer Program, we are happy to connect you with reliable local tradespeople if you’re looking for a professional.

Why PermaRoof UK?

We offer a wide range of support and resources for our customers and we’re here to help you get the job done right. Whether you’re running a large complex project or creating a small scale project at home, talk to us. We can offer expert advice, provide free installation guides, training videos, high performance products and more. 

Get in touch today and let us help.