Polymer-bitumen and polymer membranes can be applied by mechanical, ballast or glue technique.
Mechanical application is performed by special fittings. When sheets of the sealing are applied, they completely isolate the base from atmospheric factors. However, high winds may tear the waterproofing layer off the roof. The maximum wind load defines the following factors:
- applicability of a certain roofing material;
- the number of fitting elements and the distance between them;
- the distance between fitting elements and roll edge;
- the compacting load weight;
- the number of glue joints.
With the ballast method the main area of the cover is fixed by applying a compacting load. Its weight and distribution across the surface are calculated depending on the environment. Pebbles or gravel can be used as ballast. If the latter hasы sharp edges, the surface of the waterproofing membrane must be protected by an extra layer of geotextile fabric. Beside the compacting load, the ballast method involves additional mechanical clamps to secure the cover along the perimeter.
Glue method has serious limitations as it can only be applied with membranes with geotextile fabric. This technique uses hot bitumen or polyurethane-based glue. The seams between the sheets are sealed by using special burners.