Tecron

8 Common Roofing Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

As a contractor, you get it: roofing is one of the most – if not the most – critical elements of any building. It protects the structure from the elements, provides insulation and plays a decisive role in energy efficiency. However, even the best-designed roof can fail if mistakes are made during the selection, installation or maintenance process.

As the person making those big decisions, you can be held at-fault if those errors lead to water ingress, energy efficiencies, structural damage or costly repairs. That means that it’s essential that you understand the most common roofing mistakes and how to avoid them. Look no further for the advice you need: this comprehensive learning resource contains everything you need to know. Thank us later!

Mistake #1: Choosing the Wrong Materials

The most common mistake we see being made? That’s easy: choosing the wrong materials. Every roofing project is unique, and selecting the wrong materials for a building’s specific requirements can be one of the most significant and costly mistakes you can make. Your choice of materials should carefully consider factors like climate, building design and budget.

Here’s an example. Lightweight, single ply membranes are a great choice for modern flat roof designs, while bitumen waterproofing is ideal for projects requiring traditional durability. Green roofs are a better choice for sustainability-minded projects, while EPDM is the go-to for long-term flat roof performance.

• Tecron Tip: Avoid the common roofing pitfall by discussing your requirements with one of our experts. We’ll use our decades of experience to ensure your choice is the right one. Simple!

Mistake #2: Not Installing Incorrectly

No matter the quality or performance of your materials, the entire system will often depend on the quality of installation. Poor sealing, insufficient adhesion, or gaps in coverage can allow water to penetrate the roof, leading to leaks and long-term structural damage. For example, failing to properly install liquid-applied waterproofing can leave unprotected gaps, while incorrect placement of insulation can create thermal bridging and reduce energy efficiency.

• Tecron Tip: Before getting to work, ensure you have the technical support and expert advice you need. Contact us to ensure you’re following manufacturer guidelines.

Mistake #3: Poor Ventilation

As any roofing contractor knows, poor ventilation often leads to the build-up of moisture and mould, as well as the potential rotting of structural materials. This is caused due to the formation of condensation, which is caused by warm air meeting cooler roof surfaces. When this moisture has nowhere to go, you can expect significant issues down the line.

• Tecron Tip: Using a Vapour Control Layer (VCL) is essential, alongside high-performance ventilation in your roof design. This will manage moisture effectively while enhancing the overall lifespan of your building. For more advice, check out our blog on this subject.

Mistake #4: Neglecting the Vapour Barrier

Time and time again, we point out the importance of a vapour barrier to ensure a successful roofing project. While some may install the vapour barrier incorrectly, others may forget to install it completely. Any mistake made in this area will cause your roof to be highly susceptible to water ingress and energy loss.

• Tecron Tip: Our advanced vapour control products are designed to integrate seamlessly into roofing systems as a reliable defense against moisture. Always remember to install the vapour barrier on the warm side of the insulation to maximise its effectiveness.

Mistake #5: Not Securing Your Materials During Installation

In the roofing industry, we love lightweight materials like insulation, membranes and vapour barriers. However, during strong winds, these nifty materials can quickly turn into dangerous projectiles, presenting a major risk to your health and safety – not to mention the safety of others at ground level.

• Tecron Tip: We recommend storing your materials at ground level until they’re ready to be installed. This is especially important during the winter season, when winds are typically a lot stronger. We recommend using a decent fastening system to ensure your components are held firmly in place during unpredictable weather.

Mistake #6: Not Paying Attention to Drainage

Drainage is a critically important consideration for virtually any flat roof design. If a drainage system isn’t designed or installed correctly, you face an increased risk of water pooling. This will inevitably add extra weight to the roof and increase the risk of leaks, structural damage and total failure. As a roofing contractor, this is the last thing you’ll want to deal with.

• Tecron Tip: We recommend planning your drainage systems with care and attention to detail, incorporating adequate slopes, outlets and channels. For advice on reliable outlets and accessories, contact us today.

Mistake #7: Neglecting Night Seals and Disregarding Weather

We’ve already talked about the importance of keeping your materials tied down and secured during periods of windy weather. However, that’s not the only environmental condition you should be wary of. By neglecting to install temporary seals over work-in-progress roof areas, you risk causing potential damage to insulation and other materials. Aside from that, disregarding weather conditions can cause major issues, with rain, high winds and extreme cold threatening to compromise your adhesion, damage your materials and create unsafe working conditions.

• Tecron Tip: Always install night seals to protect unfinished sections of your roof (EPDM Flashing Tapes are a great solution). As far as unpredictable weather goes, we advise planning your roofing project around favourable weather forecasts, ensuring you arrive on-site fully equipped with protective tarps or covers to shield work-in-progress areas from sudden changes.

Mistake #8: Skipping Regular Maintenance

Last but not least, let’s take a look at one of the most common roofing mistakes we see: neglecting regular maintenance. Once a roof is installed, it’s easy to assume that the work is done. However, skipping regular maintenance can allow small issues—such as clogged drains or minor wear—to turn into major problems over time.

• Tecron Tip: Schedule routine inspections to check for signs of wear, leaks or debris. Tecron’s experts can provide guidance on ongoing roof care and suggest products to help prolong the life of your system.

Avoid Roofing Errors: Partner with the Pros

As with an area of specialised work, accidents do happen. However, by partnering with a true expert that’s always on-hand to provide the advice you need, you can keep these potentially costly errors to a minimum. To learn more about how we can help, check out the section below.

Ensure Reliable, Consistent Results with Tecron

Regardless of your project’s unique requirements or the challenges you face, we’ve got the experience, expertise and inventory to help. To reach out to one of our roofing experts now, simply reach out with your query to info@tecron.ie. Alternatively, call us on 0818 75 75 75 (or +353 91 353 545 outside of RoI), or visit our Trade Counter.

The Contractor’s Guide to Winterproofing Projects

With the dark evenings drawing in, the chill of winter has officially arrived. For roofing contractors across the UK and Ireland, ensuring buildings are properly winterproofed is at the top of the agenda. In the latest learning resource from Tecron, we explore some key considerations and actionable tips you can follow to ensure your roofing systems are ready for winter.

The winter seasons seem to become more challenging every year, with weather events like heavy rainfall and high winds presenting a significant challenge to both commercial and residential roofs. Now more than ever, winterproofing is essential not only for safeguarding the structural integrity of a building, but also the safety of workers and residents.

Why is winterproofing so important?

We all know that winter weather can be unpredictable and unforgiving. However, statements by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) highlight that this problem is to get worse in future years, with the number of intense storm periods set to increase along with levels of heavy rainfall. Roof areas in particular are highly vulnerable during construction or repair work, with lightweight materials like insulation and waterproofing membranes potentially becoming dangerous projectiles if not properly secured.

Aside from that, improperly prepared roofs will become more susceptible to water ingress, leading to damage not only to materials, but also the building’s interior. Fortunately, there are a number of steps that contractors can take to prevent damage that could otherwise lead to costly delays, repairs and for building owners across the board, the time to act is now. For steps you can take to winterproof your roofing project, keep reading.

A Guide to Winterproofing Your Roof

Winter presents many challenges. However, there are many steps you can take to mitigate these challenges, from basic safety steps like avoiding the overstacking of products to more considered approaches such as planning for day-by-day installation. Let’s take a closer look.

How to Winterproof Your Project

• Avoid overstacking: This is one of the most common mistakes we see being made in roofing projects, and presents major risks during more extreme weather conditions. While it may seem efficient to place everything on-site at once, it really drives up the risk of materials being blown away in high winds, turning them into potentially dangerous projectiles. Our tip here is to store materials at ground level wherever possible, only bringing them to roof level in manageable quantities when needed. Aside from reducing the risk of wind damage, this also generally improves on-site organisation and safety.
• Use night seals: Unfinished roof areas are especially vulnerable to water ingress during winter. Night seals provide temporary protection, preventing rainwater from seeping into exposed sections of the roof or insulation layers. Our advice is to use Tecron Self-Adhesive EPDM Flashing Tapes for night seals. These tapes are designed to form a reliable barrier, keeping water out and safeguarding work-in-progress areas until construction resumes.
• Cover and secure uninstalled materials: As a roofing contractor, you’ll understand that materials can degrade quickly when exposed to the elements, causing them to lose their structural integrity or waterproofing capabilities. This is why we recommend that you always securely cover any uninstalled materials with tarpaulins or other weatherproof coverings. For peace of mind, we advise that you weigh these down, or tie them to prevent them being displaced by the wind.
• One day at a time: For higher levels of safety, it’s worth planning your work incrementally. You should only expose or open as much of the roof as can be covered or completed within the same day. Installing insulation in manageable sections ensures each area is fully covered with waterproofing layers before moving on. We also advise that you avoid leaving insulation exposed overnight or during rainfall, as water can pool on the vapour barrier and compromise its effectiveness.
• Fully adhere materials wherever possible: Fully adhering roofing membranes and insulation provides greater resistance to water ingress during work-in-progress stages. It creates a stronger bond, minimising the risk of materials lifting or becoming dislodged during adverse weather conditions. When fully adhering membranes or insulation, Tecron recommends using high-quality products specifically designed for winter applications to ensure durability and long-term performance.
• Account for vapour & water management: Last but not least, let’s talk about vapour and water management, one of the less visible but equally critical elements of winterproofing. Always remember that water ingress does not only occur from rain, but also from condensation caused by fluctuations in temperature. By incorporating vapour control layers into your roofing system, you can prevent moisture build-up in the roof structure. When combined with proper insulation and ventilation, you can manage temperature fluctuations effectively.

4 Advantages of Proactive Winterproofing

By taking these steps to winterproof your roof, you’re not only protecting materials and structures but also setting your project up for success. Here are some of the key benefits:

1. Reduced delays & costs: Weather-related damage can result in costly repairs and delays that throw off project timelines. Proper winterproofing minimises these risks, ensuring smoother progress and fewer unexpected expenses.
2. Improved safety: Winterproofing reduces the likelihood of accidents caused by unsecured materials or water ingress. This is especially critical for ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.
3. Long-term durability: Roofs that are properly prepared for winter weather are more likely to stand the test of time. Protecting materials and ensuring correct installation processes result in a stronger, more durable roofing system.
4. Peace of mind: Whether you’re a contractor or a building owner, knowing that your roof is protected against the harshest conditions provides valuable peace of mind during the unpredictable winter months.

Tecron: Winterproofing Your Next Project

Need more advice on how you can take steps to winterproof your next roofing project? Don’t sweat it. Our experts are on-standby to answer any queries you have. To get started, browse some of the products we have on offer. Alternatively, reach out to sales@tecron.ie , call us on +353-91-353545 or submit a query through our dedicated contact page. Let’s get started!

Why Choose Liquid Waterproofing? A Guide for Roofing Contractors

Among the many innovations seen in roofing technology over recent years, liquid waterproofing has seen some of the highest levels growth and development, evolving from a niche solution into one of the most trusted and versatile methods for flat roof coverings and waterproofing. From its flexibility and durability to ease of installation, we explore why liquid waterproofing has cemented its place as a top choice for professionals in the roofing industry.

The advantages of liquid waterproofing are broad ranging, secured by nearly four decades of research, development and real-world application. Now, we see a selection of products that have been developed to the highest performance standards, backed up with best-in-class technical expertise. This combination of factors means that liquid waterproofing can be incorporated into full Built-Up Roofing (BUR) applications, whether that’s for new builds, refurbishments or as an upgrade method for existing substrates.

At Tecron, we believe that the advent of high-performance waterproofing in a liquid form has arrived, and it truly has to be seen to be believed. Let’s take a closer look at how this evolution has made liquid waterproofing one of the most viable and popular options for flat roofs and other waterproofing needs.

Why Do Contractors Choose Liquid Waterproofing?

Today, liquid waterproofing solutions are a far cry from their early iterations, boasting state-of-the-art formulations that provide users with unmatched performance and ease of use. The continuous investment in research and development has resulted in products that are not only more stable but also highly adaptable to varying conditions.

Whether it’s blistering heat, pouring rain, or freezing temperatures, modern liquid waterproofing systems are designed to perform under virtually any environmental circumstance. Below, we delve into the details. Keep reading to learn more.

Essential Considerations for Roof Design & Preparation

Several considerations directly impact the overall functionality, durability and compliance of your roof with local building regulations. Let’s take a closer look at each of these considerations, starting with u-value requirements.

1. Ease of Application

A key benefit of liquid waterproofing is in the ease of installation it provides to roofing contractors. While traditional waterproofing methods typically require the use of heat or complex installations, liquid systems are applied cold, directly from the container. This offers two major advantages: it eliminates the need for heavy machinery or specialist tools, and also makes the application significantly faster and safer.

Beyond that, it’s important to note that liquid waterproofing can be applied to an incredibly wide range of substrates, from concrete and timber to asphalt and metal. The adaptability liquid waterproofing provides makes it a versatile solution for use on new construction projects as well as refurbishments on older structures.

From our experience working with contractors across the UK and Ireland, the ability to quickly and efficiently apply liquid waterproofing – especially in challenging weather conditions – significantly reduces labour costs and project timelines.

2. Seamless, Fully Integrated Finish

As a roofing contractor, you will work with clients who demand the highest quality of finish on their building. Few other solutions provide a finish as seamless as liquid applied solutions.

Unlike membrane-based systems that typically rely on joints and seams, liquid waterproofing creates its own, fully integrated membrane that effectively eliminates weak points that would otherwise be susceptible to the penetration of water. This results in a continuous, joint-free surface that lowers the risk of leaks, guaranteeing long-term protection for roofs and other surfaces.

Another key benefit of the liquid nature of this solution is in how it can be easily moulded around more intricate details, penetrations or awkward roof shapes: scenarios where traditional materials tend to struggle. This makes liquid waterproofing ideal in situations where you’re working on a complex roof design with installations such as skylights or HVAC units.

3. Durability & Flexibility

Liquid waterproofing is engineered with longevity as a top priority. Of course, this is essential where buildings may be susceptible to thermal expansion and contraction. Roof surfaces tend to expand and contract as temperatures fluctuate, causing traditional materials to crack or become brittle over time.

With liquid waterproofing, these concerns are eliminated. This is because liquid waterproofing’s elasticity allows it to move with the building while simultaneously maintaining its watertight seal. That means the waterproofing later remains intact, even when the building is subject to extreme temperature variations.

4. Rapid Cure Technology

On virtually any construction project, time is of the essence. This is especially true across the UK and Ireland, where contractors are often working on projects that are weather-dependent. Thanks to the incorporation of rapid cure technology, liquid waterproofing is quickly set after application, ensuring the roof is watertight almost immediately. The result? Faster project completion and reduced downtime.

5. Accreditations and Standards

Today’s construction industry demands proof of the most rigorous approaches to testing and accreditation, and liquid waterproofing has gained industry-wide trust in this area. The leading manufacturers who engineer liquid waterproofing systems ensure their products meet the highest performance standards, backed by key certifications from FM, BBA and ETA.

For contractors, these accreditations are critical. They provide specifiers and contractors with priceless peace of mind that they have chosen a product that has been thoroughly tested and guaranteed to perform in a wide variety of conditions.

6. Ease of Maintenance and Repair

Regardless of how advanced it is, the fact is that no waterproofing system is completely immune to wear, tear or accidental damage. Despite this, it is important to consider that liquid waterproofing systems are significantly easier to repair compared to traditional materials.

If a section of the roof becomes damaged by foreign objects or excessive wear, the affected area can be easily repaired without the need to remove large sections of the waterproofing layer. Aside from saving time and money on your project, it also ensures that the building will remain protected from potential water ingress.

Liquid Waterproofing: Other Advantages to Consider

The factors listed above only provide a brief overview of the benefits offered by liquid waterproofing systems. Beyond those factors, liquid waterproofing offers its own benefits when it comes to general versatility, as well as sustainability.

• General versatility: Whether you’re working on a high-traffic roof that needs reinforced walkways or a more decorative finish, liquid systems allow for the easy incorporation of various design elements. Non-slip surfaces, vibrantly coloured walkways, and other markings can be added using a single product, making it an all-in-one solution for various aesthetic and functional requirements.
• Sustainability benefits: As the construction industry moves toward more sustainable practices, liquid waterproofing systems are proving to be a greener option. Many of these systems are low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and free from harmful chemicals, making them safer for both installers and the environment. Additionally, the long lifespan of liquid waterproofing systems means fewer replacements, which translates to less waste over the building’s life cycle.

If you’re considering liquid waterproofing for your next project, we invite you to explore our range of products, backed by best-in-class warranties and support.

Tecron: Your Project, Our Passion

At Tecron, we pride ourselves on offering high-performance liquid waterproofing systems that meet the demands of modern construction. To upgrade your supply, begin by browsing our full selection of liquid waterproofing systems. Alternatively, reach out to one of our experts today to discuss your unique project requirements.

The Importance of Pull-Out Tests and Fixing Patterns for Flat Roofing Projects

Unlike any other construction work, flat roofing projects come with a raft of unique challenges that demand the highest levels of planning to ensure structural integrity, durability and long-term performance. Pull-out tests are one of the most important elements of this process, establishing appropriate fixing patterns and more. In the latest learning resource from Tecron, we highlight everything roofing contractors need to know about pull-out testing.

Pull-Out Testing: An Essential Process

From verifying fixing strength and space optimisation to assessing substrate integrity and mitigating wind uplift risks, pull-out testing ensures comprehensive insights that ensure optimum end results. We’ve identified six key areas that make pull-out testing a bare essential on your flat roofing project. Keep reading to learn more…

1. Verify Your Fixing Strength

One of the core benefits of pull-out testing is that they provide accurate empirical data on the strength of the fixings used in your flat roof installation project.

Pull-out testing simulates real-world conditions and assesses your fasteners’ ability to withstand load-bearing requirements by subjecting them to controlled tension forces. By verifying your fixing strength, you can ensure that your choice of fixing pattern can sufficiently secure roofing membranes, insulation layers and other components. The end result? A finished project that minimises the risk of structural failures or material detachment.

2. Optimise Your Fixing Space & Layout

There are a number of factors that effective fixing patterns depend on, ranging from roofing materials and substrate conditions to climate and building usage.

Fortunately, pull-out testing allows engineers and contractors to use empirical evidence to fully justify their fixing spacing and layout, as opposed to relying on manufacturer recommendations or theoretical calculations. This process allows you to systematically test a variety of configurations, including different spacings and orientations.

More than any other planning process, pull-out testing helps identify the most efficient and robust fixing pattern for your flat roofing project.

3. Assess the Integrity of Your Substrate

Your flat roof substrate will largely vary in its composition and condition, weather that’s concrete, metal decks or timber structures. By conducting thorough pull-out testing, engineers and contractors can both evaluate the performance of their fixings whilst also receiving data-informed insights into the integrity of the underlying substrate.

This is a significant benefit as detecting weaknesses or inconsistencies in the substrate provides space for remedial measures to be implemented, ensuring a strong and stable foundation for grounding the roofing system.

4. Mitigate the Risks of Wind Uplift

Wind uplift presents a significant threat to flat roofing, especially in Ireland where strong winds are a common weather characteristic. Pull-out testing is one of the most comprehensive ways of assessing your fixings’ resistance to wind uplift forces, guiding design and installation teams in determining the best fixing patterns and specifications.

By determining this information, you can contribute to the overall resilience of your flat roof against wind-related damage or failure.

5. Ensure Quality Assurance and Compliance

Where quality assurance protocols are concerned, pull-out testing processes are a bare essential. This is because these tests objectively evaluate the performance of your fixings; ensuring compliance with industry standards, building codes and project specifications.

By providing full documentation of your tests, you can provide your stakeholders with the confidence they expect in the reliability and safety of your completed project, fostering accountability and transparency throughout the construction process.

6. Predict Long-Term Performance

Roofing contractors will understand that the durability and longevity of their flat roofing system will hinge on the effectiveness of their fixings in maintaining structural integrity over a period of time. Only by conducting comprehensive pull-out tests contractors can predict long-term performance and proactively identify any issues that may arise across the lifespan of the roof.

By proactively addressing fixings-related concerns based on pull-out test results, stakeholders can mitigate maintenance requirements, minimize lifecycle costs, and prolong the service life of flat roofing installations.

Implement Pull-Out Testing on Your Next Project

By integrating pull-out testing into the construction process, stakeholders can ensure the reliability, compliance, and long-term sustainability of flat roof installations, ultimately delivering superior outcomes for building owners, occupants, and communities alike. Take Tecron’s advice: don’t discover the importance of pull-out testing by accident.

Tecron: Your Roofing Partner

For full details and information on our range of Single Ply membranes please contact the Tecron Team or call and see us at our trade counter. Alternatively, email our team via sales@tecron.ie or call us on +353-91-353545.

The Benefits of Single Ply Membranes in Modular Construction

In Ireland and across the world, modular construction has emerged as a dominant trend: a game-changing approach that combines speed, efficiency and sustainability like no other. Single Ply Membranes are among the most popular roofing solutions in modular construction, and with their huge range of benefits, it’s not hard to see why. In the latest learning resource from Tecron, we explore the benefits of single ply membranes including PVC, EPDM, TPO & FPO.

The superior properties of these membranes have propelled their market growth. Here at Tecron, we’ve observed this growth in popularity first-hand, particularly in more specialist projects due to their levels of adaptability.

The Advantages of Single Ply Membranes

Let’s take a look at each of the advantages of Single Ply Membranes on modular construction projects in greater detail. If you’re in a rush, you can jump straight into the range of mechanically fixed, fully adhered and roof finish products we have to offer.

1. Adaptability Meets Flexibility

Single Ply Membranes are popular thanks to their incredible level of versatility, with their ability to adapt to a broad range of modular construction designs and configurations. That’s why we’re seeing these systems being rolled out on a large scale across residential, commercial and industrial facilities.

2. Low Weight, High Performance

One of the key strengths behind modular construction is its sheer agility, driven by the efficiency and mobility it allows. Thanks to their lightweight, easy-to-handly nature, Single Ply Membranes can contribute to this speedy process.

With modular construction projects being primarily assembled off-site and transported to the final location, Single Ply Membranes further streamline transportation, logistics and installation processes.

3. Easy to Install

With time being the most valuable resource in modular construction projects, Single Ply Membranes can significantly increase the pace at which the roofing process can be completed. This is because these systems can be prefabricated to fit specific dimensions, thereby reducing on-site cutting and welding.

Beyond that, the flexibility of Single Ply Membranes facilitates faster, more streamlined installation, cutting labour costs and construction timelines along the way.

4. Enhanced Longevity & Durability

Those working on modular buildings will be only too aware of the impacts of transportation stresses and environmental factors. This is why Single Ply Membranes provide a significant advantage due to their exceptional durability, allowing them to withstand the harshest of weather conditions; as well as UV radiation and temperature fluctuations.

When it comes to longevity, these systems have a proven record, with a life expectancy of over 50 years. Indeed, that 50-year lifespan involves minimum hassle as no fixing is required.

5. Sustainability, Efficiency & Integration with Green Technologies

Embodied carbon in construction is currently responsible for 15% of global greenhouse gas emissions. With this alarming statistic in-mind, sustainable practices are becoming increasingly important. Single Ply Membranes offer major benefits in this area, contributing to the energy efficiency of a building as a whole.

There are a few reasons to consider why these systems are so efficient. Firstly, Single Ply Membranes ensure no loss of heat through ingress of water or drafts thanks to their watertight properties. This reduces heating and cooling costs through minimised energy consumption. Secondly, Single Ply Membranes can be supplied in a range of lighter colours which can offset any solar gain; further reducing any cooling requirements during summer months.

Aside from their energy efficiency, these membranes are generally seen as a more environmentally friendly choice compared to traditional roofing systems. This is because they can be recycled at the end of their lifespan, reducing environmental impact and promoting circular economy principles.

Finally, Single Ply Membranes provide a seamless platform for integrating green technologies such as solar panels and green roofs, offering a stable and compatible roofing substrate.

6. Low Maintenance Requirements

Minimalistic and cost-effective maintenance strategies are one of the core principles that underpin modular construction today. This is a key factor driving the popularity of Single Ply Membranes, which require little ongoing maintenance and hassle-free upkeep compared to traditional roofing systems.

Whilst these systems are low-maintenance, ensuring regular inspections and cleaning can preserve their integrity in the long-run.

Single Ply Membranes: A Modular Essential

As the construction industry continues to embrace modular methodologies, Single Ply Membranes are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of
construction practices. Be sure to check out our Single Ply Membranes page to access a range of expert resources, from brochures and technical sheets to BBA certificates, drawing details and more.

Tecron: Your Roofing Partner

For full details and information on our range of Single Ply membranes please contact the Tecron Team or call and see us at our trade counter. Alternatively, email our team via sales@tecron.ie or call us on +353-91-353545.