Minimum Falls to new membrane decks and gutters in the Auckland Council region,

There have been a few changes lately with regards to the minimum fall requirements for gutters, decks and flat roofs in the Auckland region. We now have clarification and approval from both ARDEX and Auckland city council for the following minimum falls;

For ARDEX Butynol,  ARDEX Shelterbit (Torch-on) and ARDEX TPO

Roofs:  - 1:30 (2 Degrees)
Decks - 1:40 (1.5 Degrees)
Gutters - 1:100 (.6 Degrees)

NB: Although 1:100 is the MINIMUM requirement for gutters, we always advise as much fall as is possible under the circumstances!

If you would like some further information follow the link below to the Auckland council website:
http://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/SiteCollectionDocuments/buildingpropertyconsents/forms/ac1136externalmembranesregister.pdf

Green Roofs, Living Roofs - Beautiful and Environmentally sound

I was asked last week if we install membranes for green roofs - the answer? An emphatic 'yes!'

Green roofs, (or living roofs as they are sometimes known), are both beautiful and environmentally sound.

Green roofs reduce storm water runoff, reduce heat reflection, and, provide insulation. Additionally, plantings  absorb Co2 and the flora creates habitat for fauna which further benefits the eco-system of the roof and its surrounds.

Although popular in Europe, green roofs are less common in NZ - which really is a shame. As our cities become more intensely populated it's become more important than ever to consider the overall affect that structures have on both the occupants and the surrounding environments. Why have a flat grey roof when you could have a flowering meadow - or a deck with lush grass instead of tiles?

From a technical perspective there are several membrane options available. Personally we prefer to use sheet membranes, butynol, eco-butynol, or TPO.

There are also bitumen based torch on membranes, however we refuse to use them for green roofs as the capping layer usually has herbicide impregnated into it, to prevent roots causing damage - it's a purely personal belief, but I think herbicides are a bit contradictory to the concept of green roofs - the chemicals will ultimately end up in the environment - not good!

With Butynol or TPO water runoff is 100% potable - it just makes more sense!

If you're considering a green roof or want to know more, please give us a call - we'd love to be involved