It’s a fact that synthetic roofing membranes enjoy well proven
longevity but for exactly how long has, to date, only been simulated
by laboratory ageing tests. Evidence based on tests of a product in
situ for over half a century is eminently more convincing.
Back in 2005, what is thought to be the oldest fully functional roof
with a full-sized synthetic waterproofing was discovered in the
small peaceful village of Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany. Dating
back more than 50 years then, the building was used for the
temporary storage of drinking water which supplied the adjacent
housing estate in peak times.
A roof that could leak untreated rainwater into the village’s
drinking supply was unthinkable and so the best membrane available
in 1955, Prewanol PIB, was chosen.
Fifteen years ago, the building was superseded by a new larger plant
room and so was left unused for a whole decade. On examination in
2005, the roof did not show any significant damage and even the
detailing to two integrated roof vents remained defect free.
As manufacturers of Prewanol PIB, the predecessor to Rhepanol fk,
FDT invited State Material Testing Institute (MPA) of Darmstadt to
undertake an independent analysis of the membrane’s integrity
including the welded seams. The results confirmed that the roof was
still sufficiently waterproof and performing well.
Rhepanol is the proven to be the oldest and most environmental
friendly single ply in the world. It is the only membrane with a
unique Life Cycle Assessment and meets DIN EN ISO 14040 part ff.
Today, the Rhepanol range of membranes which are suitable for new
build, over roofing, green roofs and under photovoltaic panels is
only available in the UK from SIG Design & Technology and can only
be installed by their trained and licensed contractors who are
members of DATAC.
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