Mechanical performance of lap joints of flat roof waterproofing membranes subjected to artificial weathering

Abstract

Following an experimental campaign involving APP and SBS-modified bituminous membranes and TPO polyolefin membranes (to be used in mechanically fastened single-layer flat roof waterproofing systems), with two different joint execution procedures (welding with an open gas torch and with hot air) and varying lap joint width, subjected to standard shear and peel resistance tests, this paper presents the results of the tests on the SBS-modified bituminous membranes with the purpose of evaluating the consequences of (water and heat) weathering on their mechanical performance. This work is important because of the frequency with which waterproofing membranes exhibit problems at the mechanical attachments in lap joints and it shows how environmental agents affect their performance over time.