Flat roof refurbishment can help extend the service life of an existing roof, improve waterproofing performance and reduce the need for costly repairs. Whether a roof has reached the end of its design life or is experiencing issues such as leaks, ponding water, weathering or deterioration, selecting the right refurbishment solution is essential for long-term performance. Sika provides a range of flat roof refurbishment systems, technical support and roof assessment services to help identify the most appropriate solution for each project.
Common Causes of Roof Failure
Design Considerations
Issues such as inadequate drainage design, insufficient falls, poor movement accommodation, wind uplift challenges or condensation risks can affect long-term roof performance.
Installation Factors
Incorrect installation practices can impact watertightness and reduce the expected performance of the roofing system.
Maintenance Requirements
Regular roof inspections and maintenance are essential. Blocked outlets, debris build-up and poor drainage can lead to standing water and increased stress on roofing materials over time.
Choosing the Right Roof Refurbishment Solution
Every roof refurbishment project has unique requirements. Factors such as the condition of the existing roof, building occupancy, structural loading, roof complexity and desired service life should all be considered when selecting a refurbishment system. Sika offers both single ply and liquid applied membrane solutions designed to extend roof service life while minimising disruption during installation.
Roof Refurbishment with Sika Single Ply Membranes
Sarnafil® and Sikaplan® single ply roofing membranes are widely used for flat roof refurbishment projects, particularly where lightweight waterproofing solutions are required. Available as mechanically fixed or adhered systems, they can often be installed directly over existing waterproofing membranes, reducing the need for extensive roof removal.
Key benefits include:
- Lightweight solution that minimises additional structural loading
- Sarnafil® T (FPO) membranes are compatible with existing bitumen waterproofing
- Fast installation, particularly with mechanically fixed systems
- High wind uplift resistance through reinforced membrane technology
- Installation can proceed in a wide range of weather conditions
- No penetration of the existing roof build-up with adhered systems
- Low noise installation compared with traditional refurbishment methods
- Suitable for both simple and complex roof geometries
- Available in a range of colours and finishes to enhance roof appearance
Roof Refurbishment with Sika Liquid Applied Membranes
Sikalastic® liquid applied waterproofing systems provide a seamless refurbishment solution for roofs with complex detailing, penetrations and irregular shapes. Their cold applied installation and low odour formulations make them particularly suitable for occupied buildings where disruption must be kept to a minimum.
Key benefits include:
- Cold applied installation with no flame or heat required
- Seamless waterproofing membrane with no joints or seams
- Fully bonded system helps prevent water tracking beneath the membrane
- Suitable for complex roof details, penetrations and difficult to access areas
- Low odour technology suitable for occupied buildings
- Highly elastic and crack-bridging performance
- UV stable and resistant to weathering
- Available in reflective colours for cool roof and solar roof applications
- Can be recoated in the future without removing the existing system
Technical Support for Refurbishment Projects
Sika provides technical support throughout the refurbishment process, from initial roof assessment through to project completion. Our team can assist with:
- Roof condition surveys and reporting
- Project specific refurbishment recommendations
- Technical guidance and specification support
- On-site inspections and installation support
- Maintenance and aftercare advice
By assessing the condition of the existing roof and understanding the project's requirements, Sika can help identify refurbishment solutions that align with the building's performance objectives and expected service life.
Contact Us
If you are planning a flat roof refurbishment project, Sika's technical experts can provide guidance on roof assessments, system selection and specification development. Contact our roofing team by filling out the form below to discuss your project requirements.
