SBS Roof Systems Standard

How to use the Guarantee Standards section

This section contains the Standards, Guiding Principles, Recommendations and reference materials necessary for the design and installation of a roof qualifying for a RoofStar Guarantee.

All relevant Standards for the selection and application of materials necessary to qualify for a RoofStar Guarantee are found in this section. Readers are advised to review relevant materials that can be accessed through the links available in the body of text or embedded in section titles; these are shown in blue font. Subsection titles shown in blue indicate links to more relevant material that the reader is advised to consult.

Content in this section is colour-coded according to four classes:

Guarantee Standards

Guiding Principles

Recommendations

Reference materials

To hide or reveal classes of text, use the buttons at the bottom of the page. Guarantee Standards always remain visible

For definitions of these terms of reference, click here.

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© RCABC 2018
No reproduction of these Standards, in whole or in part, is lawful without the expressed permission of the RGC Guarantee Program.

Editor's note

The following materials are divided into fourteen (14) sections, and most of the content has been significantly revised and supplemented. Therefore, the reader should consider all of the content in this Section to be new (published November 2018). Highlighted text indicates revisions made subsequent to the publishing of these revised Standards. Click the icon below for a PDF copy of the current Standards. The reader is responsible to ensure that downloaded copies remain current with the online version of the Roofing Practices Manual. Only the online version of these or any other RoofStar Guarantee Standards shall be considered valid for the purpose of designing and constructing a RoofStar-qualified Project. To see the former RoofStar Guarantee Standards for SBS-modified Bitumen Membrane Roof Assemblies (for reference only on Projects bid before December 1, 2018), click here. The link will remain active for one calendar year.

1 GENERAL

1.1 References

In this Manual, all references to

1. the British Columbia Building Code or other standards presume the current edition that is in force.
2. materials are assumed to be Accepted by the RGC, unless stated otherwise.

1.2 Definitions

In this Manual,

Design Authority means the individual or firm responsible for the issuance of Project specifications and details to which the Project will be bid and constructed. When a Contractor designs a Project, the Contractor is deemed to be the Design Authority.

Contractor (“contractor”) means the installer of a roof assembly or system. For the purpose of issuing a RoofStar Guarantee, Contractor shall be read to mean a Member of the RCABC.

Manual means the Roofing Practices Manual.

Project means the designed or constructed roof or waterproofing assembly or system.

Refer to the Glossary for further definitions of key terms used in this Manual.

1.3 Design

1.3.1 Assembly Types

Designing a good roof begins with the end in mind and an answer to the essential question, “What purpose will the roof serve?” For example, the roof may

• simply weatherproof the building interior.
• provide a location for building equipment and services.
• support liveable spaces.

Each of these functions may limit the choice of membrane assembly.

Four principal assemblies are available for low slope membrane roofs:

1. Uninsulated (insulation may be installed beneath the deck).
2. Conventionally insulated.
3. Protected Membrane (also referred to as “inverted”).
4. Modified Protected Membrane.

Of course, sometimes the roof deck influences these choices. Regardless of the Design Authority’s starting point, knowing where you are going is the beginning of a successful design.

1.3.1.1 Conventionally Insulated Assemblies

1. In a Conventionally Insulated Roof Assembly, the membrane is the final layer, exposed to the weather. It protects the other roofing components, including insulation, from exposure to water, wind and other weather conditions. Conventionally Insulated assemblies are classified in this Manual by three different methods of attachment (securement) to the roof deck:
   1. Mechanically Attached Roof Systems (MARS)
   2. Partially Adhered Roof Systems (PARS)
   3. Adhesive Applied Roof Systems (AARS)

More about these three systems is offered in 3 SECURING the ROOF ASSEMBLY.

1.3.1.2 Protected and Modified Protected Membrane Roof Assemblies

NOTE: See more information on Protected and Modified Protected Roof Systems in Essential Elements.

1. In a Protected Membrane Roof Assembly (PMRA) the membrane is applied directly to the supporting deck structure or the deck structure overlay (as required and/or specified), and protected from the elements, and from damage, with insulation and an overburden. In this way, the membrane functions both to waterproof the roof and control air or vapour. Only RoofStar-accepted Extruded Expanded Polystyrene, or XPS, (conforming to CAN / CGSB-51.20-M87, Type 4) is acceptable for a PMRA. XPS is water-resistant (i.e. resistance to water absorption, moisture transfer, and capillary action), freeze-thaw cycling resistant, and possesses a high compressive strength. If a drainage layer is specified, it is typically installed between the membrane and insulation. An additional drainage layer may be installed above the insulation, together with a filter fabric mat and ballast or overburden. These three components - a drainage layer, filter fabric and ballast - promote controlled drainage, resist infiltration of contaminants, resist the lifting forces of wind, and counteract the natural buoyancy of the insulation.
2. PMRA's are the required roof assembly design for certain types of overburden. See 14.1.2 Design for RoofStar Guarantee Standards.
3. A Modified Protected Membrane Roof Assembly (MPMRA) is similar to a PMRA except that a layer of insulation is installed underneath the membrane as well as on top. This may offer cost savings as only the top layer of insulation requires ballast and the bottom layer (mechanically-fastened or adhered) need not be Extruded Expanded Polystyrene and may be tapered to provide slope. As a general rule, two-thirds or more of the total thermal resistance (RSI or R value) should be above the membrane, but in all cases the Design Authority should perform the required psychrometric calculations before designing a roof system.

1.3.2 Accessibility for Maintenance

While the RoofStar Guarantee Standards pertain to the design and construction of a leak-free roof, accessible design is still critical since a roof must be regularly maintained. Therefore, while the following list is not exhaustive, the Design Authority is urged to consider these guiding principles when designing a roof Project.

1. Any hatch, ladder or mechanical unit should be located a sufficient distance away from the roof edge (setback zone) so that other fall protection measures are not required by those using or accessing this equipment. When it is not possible to situate a hatch, ladder or mechanical unit outside the setback zone, guard rails should be designed for the roof edge to provide additional fall protection for those using or accessing such equipment.
2. Each roof should be designed to provide safe access for maintenance of roof drains, corners or mechanical equipment, where the roof is at least 3 m (10’) above the surface of the ground, or where a hazard to a person exists, should a fall be possible. This principle also applies to roof areas intended for regular occupancy. Therefore, provide fall protection in compliance with the Building Code having jurisdiction, and with the Workers Compensation Act Regulations, by designing appropriately located
   1. tall parapets.
   2. guardrails.
   3. tie-off anchors.

1.3.3 Quality Assurance

See also 1.6 RoofStar Guarantee: Coverage and Limitations

1. An integrity scan is strongly recommended when the roof assembly protects a sensitive occupied space (see 14.1.2.1).
2. A permanently installed electronic leak detection system is recommended but not required.
3. Flood testing (as an alternative to an integrity scan) is not recommended. When flood testing is specified, testing shall be conducted prior to installation of insulation and roof coverings, and must be performed to ASTM D5957.

1.3.3.1 Membrane Moisture Surveys and Electronic Leak Detection

1. A periodically monitored Electronic Leak Detection (ELD) system is recommended for Projects where multiple trades will have access to a roof that is under construction and completed, in order to identify breaches in the membrane in a timely way and avoid future costly delays.
2. Neither an integrity scan nor an Electronic Leak Detection (ELD) system are considered Accepted Materials, but firms that provide these services are nevertheless specifically recognized and approved by the RoofStar Guarantee Program.
   1. An integrity scan is performed after the installation of the membrane but before any other part of the roof assembly or covering is installed. It uses low-voltage electronical current to detect even the smallest breaches in a finished roof membrane.
   2. An ELD utilizes low-voltage electronical current, typically conducted through wires installed in a grid pattern, and are used in response to a leak, to isolate its location in order to minimize investigation time and material removal. ELDs may be passive (installed but not monitored) or actively monitored (by the installer, through real-time data collection).
3. Only electronic leak detection systems specifically approved by the RoofStar Guarantee Program are acceptable.
4. A leak detection system must provide detection capabilities for the entire roof surface covered by roof covering, and must extend at least 50 mm (2") vertically from the water plane at
   1. all transitions.
   2. any point along the entire deck perimeter.
   3. protrusions.

1.4 Scope

The Guarantee Standards, Guiding Principles, Recommendations and Reference Materials in this Manual pertain to both new roofing construction and replacement roofing, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

1.4.1 New Construction

New roof construction must utilize only newly manufactured materials, and may not incorporate recycled products, unless with the expressed, written consent of the RoofStar Guarantee Program.

1.4.2 Replacement Roofing

As a roof ages, is neglected or is damaged, it may lose its ability to perform reliably and effectively, necessitating replacement. Replacement roofing, also referred to as "re-roofing," whether made in whole or in part, should be undertaken with the Quality Assurance and Quality Control provided for under the RoofStar Guarantee Program. Regardless of the approach to replacement roofing, the existing deck structure must meet the pullout resistance rating for mechanical fasteners, and must be capable of supporting all dead and live loads. Furthermore, the deck must be capable of supporting any additional dead loads of the new roof system.

Three types of replacement roofing are contemplated and permitted (with varying degrees of limitations and conditions) under the RoofStar Guarantee Program:

• System Replacement - removal and replacement of all roof system components, except for the supporting deck structure.
• Membrane Replacement – removal and replacement of the roof membrane, while retaining existing roof system components (i.e. insulation, ballast).
• Recovering - installation of a new membrane over an existing membrane, while retaining some or all of the other roof system materials (NOTE: Recovering is permitted only with a written Variance issued by the RoofStar Guarantee Program).

Qualifying and construction conditions and limitations for each of these replacement options are described below. Other conditions and limitation may be determined by the RoofStar Guarantee Program administration subject to the nature and specifications of the Replacement Roofing Project.

1.4.2.1 System Replacement

Roof system replacement includes the removal of all components, and must be comply with the RoofStar Guarantee Standards for new roof construction. Subject to the requirements in 6 AIR and VAPOUR CONTROLS, the decision to reuse and repair an existing air or vapour control layer remains the responsibility of the Design Authority.

1.4.2.2 Membrane Replacement

Membrane replacement is a partial roof system replacement, limited to the membrane or materials adhered to the membrane. For membrane replacement to qualify for a RoofStar Guarantee,

1. the Design Authority must be certain the existing roof system is properly secured to the existing deck structure (see 3 SECURING the ROOF ASSEMBLY).
2. the existing field membrane must be removed and replaced with a new insulation overlay board and a new membrane.
3. existing membrane flashing must be removed and replaced with new materials.
4. the design must comply with the RoofStar Guarantee Standards for new roof construction.

1.4.2.3 Recovering

Recovering - installing a new membrane over an existing membrane - is permitted in certain circumstances, though it is not a recommended practice and will limit the scope of coverage for the RoofStar Guarantee. Roof recovering may qualify for a RoofStar Guarantee, but qualification is subject to the Conditions and limitations listed below. Roof recovering is permitted only with a written Variance issued by the RoofStar Guarantee Program. A RoofStar Guarantee issued for a recovered roof is limited strictly to the value of new roof system materials; existing materials that remain in place beneath new materials do not qualify for coverage under the RoofStar Guarantee.

1.4.2.3.1 Recovering: Project Qualifications

Any Variance permitting roof recovering must be applied for in writing by the Design Authority, addressed to the RoofStar Guarantee Program prior to the tendering of documents. To qualify for a Variance, the following conditions must be met and confirmed in the written application:

1. The new roof system must be properly secured to the existing deck structure (see 3 SECURING the ROOF ASSEMBLY).
2. The existing roof system must be distinct and physically separate from other roof areas.
3. The request for a Variance must identify the type of roof assembly - Conventionally Insulated, Protected Membrane Roof Assembly (PMRA) or Modified Protected Membrane Roof Assembly (MPMRA).
4. Conventionally Insulated Assemblies Only: The existing roof system must be independently surveyed by qualified professionals using calibrated moisture detection equipment and cut tests, and the resulting survey shall be formally documented for review by the RoofStar Guarantee Program administration. The following requirements for cut tests apply, based on roof area. All cut tests shall be independently documented for review by the RoofStar Guarantee Program:
   1. At least three (3) cut tests for roof areas up to 20,000 sf (200 squares), or one (1) cut test for every 2000 sf (20 squares), whichever is more.
   2. One (1) cut test for every 3000 sf (30 squares) of roof area that exceeds the first 20,000 sf (200 squares).
   3. One (1) cut test for each small roof area measuring no more than 200 sf (2 squares).
   4. Where the Roof has been constructed with a structurally sloped deck, at least 50% of the required cut tests shall sample roof areas in or near valleys, and areas; samples shall also be taken near roof drains.
   5. Where the Roof has been constructed with a structurally flat deck, samples shall be taken near roof drains and in a random pattern across the roof.
   6. All cut tests for existing SBS-modified membrane roof systems shall be performed to ASTM D7636/D7636M - 11 Standard Practice for Sampling and Analysis of Modified Bitumen Roof Systems.
5. Existing conventionally insulated roof systems constructed with Expanded Polystyrene insulation (EPS) may qualify for a RoofStar Guarantee, subject to the General Conditions and Limitations below.

1.4.2.3.2 Recovering: General Conditions and Limitations

In addition to the RoofStar Guarantee Standards found in this Manual, the following additional requirements and conditions apply:

1. All wet material identified by either the independent moisture detection survey or through cut tests shall be
   1. specified for removal.
   2. removed in the course of construction.
2. The existing membrane on a conventionally insulated roof assembly must be cut through
   1. in a grid pattern measuring no larger than 6m x 6m (approximately 20' x 20').
   2. around the perimeter of the roof area, no more than 0.2 m (8") from the edge.
3. A grid-cut field membrane must be overlaid with a mechanically attached insulation overlay board acceptable to the RoofStar Guarantee Program; notwithstanding this requirement, only non-organic and moisture-resistant overlay boards may be used in the Project.
4. When Expanded Polystyrene insulation (EPS) is present in an existing roof assembly, the existing membrane must be overlaid with at least one layer of 50 mm (2”) mineral wool or polyisocyanurate insulation, in combination with a RoofStar-accepted insulation overlay board (as required).
5. New membranes must be properly secured to the underlying roof assembly.
6. Only new strip-in flashings for roof penetrations are acceptable for a RoofStar Guarantee; existing flashings are not permitted.
7. Only new roof drains are acceptable for a RoofStar Guarantee, and under no circumstances shall existing roof drains be reused.
8. Only new metal flashings are acceptable for installation at perimeters or at membrane terminations, and under no circumstances shall existing metal flashings be reused.

1.5 Workmanship

While integrity and functionality of a new roof or waterproofed deck is the foundation of a RoofStar Guarantee, it is no less important to ensure that the end product exhibits excellent workmanship.

1.6 RoofStar Guarantee: Coverage and Limitations

A RoofStar Guarantee is available for almost any roof design, provided it is designed and built to the Standards in this Manual. That said, there are limitations and conditions. They are listed on the Guarantee Certificate, and include (without limitation) the following:

1. Notwithstanding the definition of Roof Assembly, the RoofStar Guarantee does not cover the quality, installation or performance of the supporting deck structure.
2. The RoofStar Guarantee (subject to the limitations described herein or stated on the Guarantee Certificate) is a guarantee against leaks only, caused only by a failure of materials or by roofing contractor workmanship.
3. Notwithstanding any of the Guarantee requirements in this Manual, a RoofStar Guarantee will not cover
   1. Leaks resulting from
      1. improper design.
      2. overloading of the roof assembly.
      3. water entry from other building components (walls, skylights, etc.).
      4. neglected roof maintenance.
   2. the costs to remove and reinstall irrigation or other services (including, without limitation, electrical and gas services).
   3. replacement (new for old) of any Overburden.
   4. damage or leaks caused by the roots of invasive plant species (for example, certain varieties of bamboo or willow), regardless of measures taken to protect the membrane.
   5. a sacrificial third ply, used as a walkway or warning zone, as it is not considered part of the roof system.
4. Overburdens may be installed on conventionally insulated or Protected (“inverted”) roofs, but not all designs are suitable for any type, size or depth of Overburden (see 14 THE ROOF as a PLATFORM). The RGC recommends that a roof supporting overburden be designed and constructed as a Protected Membrane Roof Assembly. The RoofStar Guarantee may be void if a roof is designed and constructed with overburden that exceeds the capabilities of a conventional roof assembly.
5. Every Protected Membrane Roof Assembly must be electronically scanned immediately prior to the installation of roof materials above the membrane, to ensure it is leak and damage-free.
6. Electronic Leak Detection is optional, unless the roof design or construction supports overburden with the following characteristics:
   1. Each object equals or exceeds 90 Kg (200 lbs).
   2. Point loading of any individual object equals or exceeds 138 kPa (20 psi).
   3. Overburden exceeds 150 mm (6”) in depth.
7. Pre-curbs and Concrete Features
   1. When concrete walls or structures are constructed without a pre-curb, all concrete surfaces must be fully and continuously enveloped with the primary roof membrane.
   2. While the application of non‐penetrating bonded tiling or other architectural finishes to the waterproofing membrane is acceptable for a RoofStar Guarantee, and is subject to approval by the membrane manufacturer, the removal, reinstallation or replacement of any bonded finish, in order to investigate and repair leaks under the terms of the Guarantee, is the responsibility of others.
8. Modifications to the Roof during the Guarantee Term
   1. RGC must be notified in writing of any modifications or repairs to the roof under guarantee.
   2. The owner must ensure that any modifications or repair work done on the roof during the guarantee period is performed to RoofStar Guarantee Standards by a roofing contractor, and is inspected by a RoofStar-accepted inspection firm.
9. Maintenance: the building owner must ensure that the roof and its components are properly maintained. Debris in drains, caulking on or around metal flashings, and wind scouring of gravel are considered maintenance issues.
10. Removal and Reinstallation of Overburdens: in order to investigate and repair a leak, the RoofStar Guarantee Program must be allowed to remove Overburdens, to expose the membrane. The RoofStar Guarantee pays for the removal and reinstallation of accessible overburdens only, when they are installed by the Contractor, regardless of the roof design. The cost to remove, care for and reinstall any Overburden that exceeds these limits or conditions, which is inaccessible or which was supplied or installed by others, will be borne by the Owner.
    1. Maximum coverage area: limited to one physically defined roof area (no maximum size)
    2. The RoofStar Guarantee pays for removal and reinstallation of
       1. Extensive vegetated roof systems, provided they are comprised of trays or other modular methods and are less than 150 mm (6”) in depth, exclusive of the plants.
       2. other accessible roof coverings, provided they are unitized (for example, pavers on pedestals) and do not exceed 1 M2 or 90 Kg (200 lb.) per unit.
       3. gravel ballast and its associated drainage or protection material components, provided the ballast is less than 150 mm (6”) deep.
       4. structures, furnishings or planters provided each item, or any single component of each item, is easily detachable, does not require a specialty trade, and is no heavier than 90 Kg (200 lb).

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2 SUPPORTING STRUCTURES: Decks and Walls

2.1 General

1. The British Columbia Building Code, or the building code having jurisdiction, prevails in all cases except where it is exceeded by the RoofStar Guarantee Standards published in this Manual.
2. Notwithstanding the RoofStar Guarantee Standards published in this Manual, the RoofStar Guarantee does not extend coverage to the supporting roof deck or to its securement, which is the responsibility of the Design Authority and the building contractor.
3. Prior to the application of the roof system, the supporting deck structure (roof deck) and other surfaces receiving membranes must be smooth, straight, clean and free of
   1. moisture.
   2. frost.
   3. dust and debris.
   4. contaminants.
   5. objectionable surface treatments.
   6. release oils.
   7. laitance.
      
      

   If surface drying is required prior to roofing, use blown air to facilitate this.

4. Walls, parapets, curbs, blocking and penetrations should be constructed or placed prior to the commencement of roofing work. This work is provided by other trades.
5. The supporting deck structure should be dimensionally stable and capable of accommodating roof system component movement.

2.2 Roof Slope

2.2.1 General

1. Roof slope can be achieved either by designing the roof structure with sloped decks, or by introducing slope with tapered board insulation.
2. Deflection and settlement may interfere with roof drainage. Therefore, the Design Authority must take into consideration the anticipated deflection of the structure when designing the roof for proper drainage.
3. Drainage is best achieved (in descending order of best practices) with
   1. four-way slope to drain.
   2. two-way slope to drain, in combination with crickets between drains.
   3. slope to a common valley, or with gutters.
   4. positive sloping valleys to drains (highly recommended).
4. Curbs that span 1800 mm (6’) or more across the drainage plane should be designed with a cricket to divert water around the curb.
5. Drain sumps, designed to isolate collected water for the drain, need not be sloped. The use of drain sumps is recommended but not required. See also 11.1.2.1.4.

2.2.2 New Construction

1. All new construction roofs that qualify for a RoofStar Guarantee must be designed and built with a slope of no less than 2% (1/4” in 12”), measured on the primary sloped planes of the roof.
2. Single-ply SBS roof systems must be designed and built with a slope of no less than 6% (3/4" in 12"), measured on the primary sloped planes of the roof. Any roof areas with slopes less than 6% (3/4" in 12") require 2-ply membrane assemblies.

2.2.3 Replacement Roofing

1. Replacement roof assemblies may qualify for a RoofStar Guarantee without correcting poor drainage, though the elimination of ponding (standing water) is strongly recommended.

2.3 Supporting Deck Types

2.3.1 Steel

Steel roof decks are constructed of light gauge (usually 22, 20, or 18 gauge) cold-rolled steel sections (panels) that are usually galvanized. In cross-section the panels are ribbed, with the ribs usually spaced at 150 mm (6") O.C. The ribs provide the strength and rigidity of the panels. Steel decks are generally supported by open-web steel joist framing and are welded or mechanically-fastened to the framework.

For more information about steel decks, see Roof Decks under B. Essential Elements.

1. Steel deck panels must be installed to provide a smooth uniform surface for roofing.
2. A thermal barrier may be required to conform to Building Code or fire insurance-rated assemblies, when the roof assembly is insulated (usually when the insulation is classified as combustible).
3. Uninsulated systems require a deck overlay for the membrane. An accepted moisture resistant fibreglass-faced, silicon treated gypsum core board may serve both as a thermal barrier and as a level surface. For more about this, see 5.3.2 Steel.

2.3.2 Concrete

Concrete roof decks to which a roofing system is applied include the following types:

• Cast-in-place.
• Pre-cast panels.
• Pre-stressed panels.
• Lightweight.

Not all membrane assemblies are suitable for application on every type of concrete deck, and therefore the Design Authority is strongly urged to consider potential deck deflection when designing the assembly.

For more information about concrete decks, see Roof Decks under B. Essential Elements.

1. It is not permissible to adhere roof membranes to freshly poured concrete supporting deck structures, within the first 28 days after pouring, unless expressly instructed in writing by the Building Envelope Engineer. Adhered means adhered by means of an adhesive, hot bitumen or the process of torch-welding.
2. Deck preparation by others:
   1. Remove all ridges and bumps, and repair cracks.
   2. Feather with grout all weld plates and elevation differences.
3. Pre-cast decks joints should be “taped” or stripped-in with a membrane ply.

2.3.3 Wood

Wood is a common roof deck construction material that has been used for many years because of its economy, ease of fabrication, lighter construction, and ready availability. Acceptable wood roof decks may include (without limitation)

• wood board (dimensional lumber, ship-lapped planking, etc.).
• plywood.
• non-veneered wood decks (oriented strand board, waferboard, etc.).
• laminated timber.

For more information about wood decks, see Roof Decks under B. Essential Elements.

The following criteria apply to all types of wood decks:

1. All wood decks shall conform in thickness and fastening methods with the local or provincial Building Code having jurisdiction. Regardless, to qualify for a RoofStar Guarantee, plywood or non-veneered panels (such as O.S.B. or wafer board) used as a roof deck must be at least 12.7 mm (1/2”) thick.
2. Differential edge movements or deflection measured in excess of 1/360 of the span must be prevented by any of the following options:
   1. construct the deck with tongue-and-groove plywood, and support the non-grooved edges with joists or solid blocking.
   2. support butt joints with solid blocking under non-supported edges.
3. All wood decks must be affixed to the supporting framing or structure with corrosion-resistant
   1. wood screws.
   2. spiral nails.
   3. ring shank nails.
      
      

   The structural suitability of the fastener is the responsibility of the Design Authority.

4. All wood decks with knots or cracks must
   1. have metal affixed over them before the deck can be accepted for roofing (this work should be done by others).
   2. be overlaid with a layer of knot-free 12.7 mm (1/2”) plywood.
5. All types of wood decks should be roofed promptly after installation.
6. When a plywood deck is intended to support a Protected Membrane Roof Assembly and a vegetated roof system, the plywood should be marine-grade T&G material at least 19 mm (3/4”) thick, depending up on the anticipated live and dead loads of the roof systems. The Design Authority is responsible to calculate these loads and design suitable approaches to mitigate deflection.
7. When membranes are installed directly on a wood deck, all knots or cracks shall be covered with metal prior to acceptance of deck surface. This work should be done by others.

2.3.3.1 Plywood

1. Plywood roof decks consist of exterior type plywood mechanically fastened to the roof framing. The plywood panels should conform to CSA 0121, “Douglas Fir Plywood”, CSA 0151, “Canadian Softwood Plywood”, or CSA 0153, “Poplar Plywood”, as per Building Code requirements.
2. Plywood roof sheathing should be installed in a staggered pattern with the surface grain at right angles to the roof framing.

2.3.3.2 Laminated Timber

Laminated timber decks are typically comprised of crossing layers of dimensional solid wood material, laminated to form a thick, dimensionally stable slab strong enough to support significant structural loads.

2.3.3.3 Non-veneered Panels

See 9 FIELD MEMBRANES for application standards and limitations.

2.3.3.4 Wood Boards

1. Wood board decks include tongue-and-groove, ship-lapped, or splined boards or planks. These typically range in thickness from 19 mm to 89 mm (nominal 1" to 4").
2. Wood board decks may also include Mill decks, also called Nail-Laminated Timber decks. These are constructed with a single layer of dimensional boards (dimensions can vary), placed on edge and spiked together to form a “mill deck”. The thickness of the boards is determined by the anticipated loads and spacing of roof joists or trusses (consult the local or provincial Building Code having jurisdiction).
3. Wood board decks should be of sound seasoned lumber, properly secured to the supporting structure.

2.4 Expansion Joints

See Construction Details and 10.3.6 Expansion and Control Joints for membrane application.

Roof expansion joints, or movement joints, are designed to safely absorb thermal expansion and contraction of materials, or to absorb vibration. They also allow for movement caused by settlement and earthquakes.

1. Structural expansion joints should be considered wherever
   1. the type of deck changes.
   2. additions connect to existing buildings.
   3. separate wings of a building join (e.g. “L” or “T” configurations).
   4. interior heating conditions change.
   5. differential movement may occur (e.g. parapet detail where the deck is not supported by the wall).
2. The location of expansion joints must be clearly indicated on the drawings, drawn in detail, and included in the specifications.
3. The construction of structural expansion joints is the responsibility of others and must be in place before the roofing contractor accepts the deck for roofing.
4. Expansion joints constructed as a raised divider must have a sloped top surface and must extend in height above the finished roof surface no less than 200 mm (8"). The minimum height of the Expansion Joint may be reduced to 100 mm (4") if the primary roof membrane flashing is fully supported and sealed over the top.

2.5 Control Joints

See Construction Details and 10.3.6 Expansion and Control Joints for membrane application.

Control joints (sometimes referred to as roof dividers) are site-built but relatively uncommon for roofs with flexible membranes. They are designed to help control thermal expansion and contraction stresses in the roof system where no structural expansion joint has been provided in the building design. Control joints may be present on older roofs with built-up roof systems, and will have to be taken into consideration by the Design Authority; in some cases, control joints may be eliminated for replacement roofing. Still, control joints may be employed by the Design Authority to control expansion and contraction of any materials in the roof assembly, or for dividing existing roof areas for phased replacement roofing.

1. The Design Authority is responsible to determine the need for roof dividers and control joints, and is responsible for their design. The use of roof dividers and control joints should be evaluated on a product performance basis.
2. When roof dividers are specified and detailed, they should divide the roof into approximately equal, regularly-shaped areas. Ideally, roof dividers should be located at the high points of the roof, with drainage away from the divider on both sides, but DRAINAGE MUST NOT BE IMPEDED BY THE ROOF DIVIDER.
3. The location of roof dividers must be clearly indicated on the drawings, drawn in detail, and included in the specifications. Specifications should clearly indicate responsibility for their construction.
4. When roof dividers are already present (during replacement roofing), the dividers must extend at least 100 mm (4”) in height above the finished roof surface.

2.6 Walls

2.6.1 General

1. Walls must provide a clean, dry and smooth vertical surface suitable for the application of roof system materials. Sheathing is typically installed to enclose a framed wall, but may be applied to a rough wall to make the surface suitable for membrane application.
2. Wall sheathing, to which the roofing contractor will apply membranes, must extend vertically the full height of the membrane. In any event, sheathing must extend vertically at least 200 mm (8”) above the finished roof surface. For accepted sheathing materials, see 2.6.2 below.
3. Walls and roofs commonly intersect in two ways:
   1. Directly, where the wall structurally connects to the roof structure, so that both move together.
   2. Indirectly, where the roof structure and the wall structure are independent of each other, so that the movement of one does not affect the other. These locations require an expansion joint.
4. The Design Authority must ensure a continuous connection between the roof system from field to perimeter, in order to control or inhibit the movement of water, air and vapour.

2.6.2 Materials

1. Concrete surfaces must comply with the requirements set out in 2.1.3. When concrete surfaces do not comply, concrete walls may be sheathed with any one of the following:
   1. 15.9 mm (5/8”) thick treated plywood.
   2. fibre-mat reinforced cement boards with a minimum thickness of 9.5 mm (⅜").
2. Both materials must also conform to ASTM C1325-04.
3. For framed walls, the following material are acceptable:
   1. moisture resistant gypsum core boards specifically accepted as deck overlay boards, with a minimum thickness of 12 mm (1/2”). Moisture resistant gypsum core boards manufactured for wall applications are not acceptable for roofing and do not qualify for a RoofStar Guarantee.
   2. fibre-mat reinforced cement boards with a minimum thickness of 9.5 mm (⅜").
   3. minimum 12 mm (1/2”) thick plywood.

2.7 Electrical Cables and Boxes

Electrical cables (including conduit) or boxes installed inside, on top of, or beneath a roof assembly expose roofing workers to electrical shock, and expose the building and the public to both shock and fire. Hidden electrical wiring and boxed junctions can be extremely difficult to document before work begins, and while some technologies are purportedly accurate in identifying energized circuits before they are damaged, false readings make these technologies less than reliable. During replacement roofing, avoiding damage to electrical circuits from cutters and fasteners is sometimes next to impossible. It is therefore desirable to design buildings with realistic separations between electrical wiring and boxes, and roof assemblies.

For more about this topic, see the reprinted Safety Bulletin issued by the BC Safety Authority, republished in the November 10, 2015 Technical Update.

Currently, neither the Canadian Electrical Code, Part I nor the British Columbia Electrical Code explicitly prohibit, nor explicitly permit, the installation electrical cables and boxes anywhere in close proximity to a roof assembly. The Design Authority therefore has the latitude to write restrictions concerning the location of electrical installations, and consequently eliminate shock and fire hazards. To do so, apply the following standards when preparing Project specifications to qualify for a RoofStar Guarantee.

2.7.1 New Construction

1. Electrical cables, raceways or boxes shall not be installed within a roof assembly.
2. Electrical cables, raceways or boxes shall not be installed on the underside of a roof assembly, unless
   1. the supporting deck structure equals or exceeds 76 mm (3”) in thickness, or
   2. the cables, raceways or boxes are installed and supported so there is a separation of not less than 38 mm measured between the underside of the roof assembly and the electrical installation.
3. Notwithstanding either (1) and (2), cables or raceways shall be permitted to pass through a roof assembly for connection to electrical equipment installed on the roof, provided that the passage through the roof is a part of the roof assembly design.

2.7.2 Replacement Roofing

1. If existing electrical cables or boxes do not conform to the standards in 2.6.1 New Construction, the Design Authority must consider the attachment of the roof system above the electrical system, and the requirements set out in 3 SECURING the ROOF ASSEMBLY.
2. The Design Authority should
   1. specify protection of existing electrical cables and boxes (a 5 mm (3/16”) steel plate may be used to minimize the possibility of fastener penetration and cutter damage).
   2. provide the building owner with detailed as-built drawings that accurately map the location of electrical cables and boxes.

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3 SECURING the ROOF ASSEMBLY

Click on the gif above to see the full high-definition video, which illustrates why roof system attachment standards matter (NOTE: the system shown in the video represents a mechanically fastened EPDM roof, constructed to RoofStar Guarantee Standards. The membrane "flutter" in wind is normal for this type of roof system.)

3.1 General

3.1.1 Definitions

Refer to the Glossary for further definitions of key terms used in this Manual.

CSA Standard (“the Standard”) means the CSA Standard A123.21 Standard test method for the dynamic wind uplift resistance of membrane-roofing systems (latest edition).

Ballast, when used in this Manual, refers to a material used for securing the roof assembly. When gravel or pavers are used in this way, they are considered part of the roof system.

Overburden is any material, structure or item of equipment that is placed on top of the completed roof. Gravel or pavers are considered to be overburden when they do not serve to secure the roof system. See also 14.1.1 Definitions.

3.1.2 Design

Wind that compromises the membrane of a low-slope roof assembly often results in leaks, sometimes with catastrophic consequences. Therefore, the Design Authority must pay attention to the design of the roof and its performance under windy conditions.

Conventionally Insulated Roof Assemblies are governed by standards adopted in this Manual from the National Building Code of Canada (NBCC) and the British Columbia Building Code (BCBC). The BCBC requires the proper calculation of Specified Wind Loads, and securement of the roof components using a tested roof assembly or, in the alternative, either an assembly with proven past performance or an assembly that is otherwise engineered to resist the Specified Wind Loads of a roof. RoofStar Guarantee Standards require these same measures, for new or fully replaced conventionally insulated roof assemblies, in order to ensure the roof assembly is not compromised by wind that could, as a consequence, cause leaks. In addition, this section sets out the requirements for

1. material substitution (applicable to Tested Assemblies or assemblies with proven past performance).
2. fastener and adhesive application (minimum numbers and spacing).
3. roofs installed with overburden, Protected Membrane Roof Assemblies, and roofs where only part of the system must be replaced.
   

The following Standards are illustrated in the decision tree/flow chart shown as Figure 3.3, and must be read in conjunction with 3.3 Application.

3.1.2.1 General

1. The Design Authority is responsible for the proper calculation of Specified Wind Loads for a low-sloped membrane roof assembly, regardless of its design, and must use the Wind-RCI online wind calculator or, in the alternative, another method that is its equal or superior. This includes roofs that support an overburden, including Vegetated Roof Assemblies. When the geometry of a building exceeds the capabilities of the Wind-RCI calculator, the Design Authority must calculate wind loads in accordance with the BCBC, Division B, Part 4, 4.1.7 Wind Loads, and in consultation with other sections of the BCBC as they pertain to the determination of Specified Wind Loads. Acceptance of a roof for a RoofStar Guarantee is predicated on the assumption that the Design Authority has performed Due Diligence with respect to Specified Wind Loads and the attachment methods for the roof assembly.
2. All low-slope roofs shall consist of the following three zones, illustrated in Figure 3.1.
   1. Field (F) – the interior of the roof bounded by the Edge and the Corners.
   2. Edge (E) – defined as 10% of the building width or 40% of the building height, whichever is less. In no case will perimeter zone be less than 2.0 m (7').
   3. Corner (C) – part of the perimeter but not less than 2.0 m x 2.0 m (7’ x7’) in size. The corner area is defined by the Edge in both directions at the corners.
      

      Figure 3.1

3. A conventionally insulated roof assembly, and a Modified Protected Membrane Roof Assembly (MPMRA), constructed on a bare roof deck (new construction and replacement roofing) must be secured using
   1. a Tested Assembly (see 3.3.1.1 Tested Assemblies).
   2. a roof assembly with ‘proven past performance’ (see 3.3.1.2 Roof Assemblies with Proven Past Performance).
   3. engineered methods and patterns (see 3.3.1.3; also refer to Div. B, Part 4 and Part 5, BCBC together with the ANSI/SPRI WD-1 methodology referenced in the BCBC, Notes to Part 5 – Environmental Separation, A-5.2.2.2.(4)).
4. The wind uplift resistance capabilities of the selected roof assembly must equal or exceed the Specified Wind Loads.
5. A roof consisting of a single elevation, divided into smaller roof areas by means of control joints (roof dividers) or expansion joints, shall be considered one roof area for the purpose of calculating the Specified Wind Loads.
6. When a building is designed with multiple roof levels,
   1. the Specified Wind Load for each roof area must be calculated separately, unless the roofs are adjacent each other and the elevation difference between roof areas is less than 1.52 m (5’).
   2. each roof area must be designed with Edge (E) zones on all sides, and Corner (C) zones at each outside and inside corner, irrespective of the elevation difference between the roofs.
      

      Figure 3.2

7. When a roof includes an inside corner, the Corner zones must extend along each adjacent side of the roof a distance equal in dimensions to outside corners (Figure 3.2).
8. When a roof area intersects the corner of a wall, the Edge zone on either side of the wall corner must be treated as a roof Corner (2 x C) (Figure 3.2).
9. When an existing roof system is specified for partial replacement, the Design Authority must
   1. calculate the Specified Wind Loads for the roof.
   2. determine whether or not securement of the remaining roof components (left in situ) is sufficient to resist the Specified Wind Loads.
   3. determine a suitable method of securement or have the system of securement engineered.
   4. calculate and design securement for any overburden.
      

      Figure 3.3

      
      

      See also 1.4.2 Replacement Roofing, 3.3.3 Partial Roof Replacements and 14 THE ROOF as a PLATFORM: Coverings, Living Spaces and Structures.
10. When specifying securement for a partial roof replacement, mechanical fastening, when practicable, is the recommended method for securing new materials to an existing roof system. All other methods of securement must be designed and specified by the Design Authority.
11. Roof assemblies should be designed in conjunction with the electrical systems for the building, in order to avoid unnecessary interference with roof system securement. Placement of cables and boxes in designated trays, suspended at least 38 mm (1 ½”) below a penetrable supporting deck, is strongly recommended in order to avoid contact with roofing fasteners; fastener penetration may result in shock or fire hazard. Steel plates should not be used to shield conduit and boxes on top of or immediately beneath a penetrable deck, because the plates will interfere with fastener placement and proper securement of the roof system. See also 2.7 Electrical Cables and Boxes.
12. Securement of steep-sloped roofs shall be made in accordance with the requirements set out elsewhere in this Manual.

3.1.2.2 Roofs with Ballast or Overburdens

NOTE: the reader must consult the Design and Application requirements in 12.1 Protected and Modified Protected Membrane Roof Assemblies, together with requirements in 14 THE ROOF as a PLATFORM (with respect to Vegetated Roof Systems).

1. When vegetation and its growing media is intended as either ballast or overburden on any membrane roof assembly, the Design Authority must, in addition to calculating the Specified Wind Loads for the roof assembly, determine the Specified Wind Loads for the Vegetated Roof Systems (VRS), and the dimensions of the roof zones, using the WIND-MVRA online calculator tool or, in the alternative, another method that is its equal or superior. Note that this online resource applies only to buildings described on the Wind-RCI website at "low rise" and of moderate height (limited to 20 m or 65 feet). Securement methods and details of a VRS are the responsibility of the Design Authority.
2. VRSs that are not modular, and VRSs on buildings that do not conform to the parameter of the Wind-VRA calculator, must be engineered to resist Specified Wind Loads.
3. Roof assemblies designed as PMRAs or MPMRAs that utilize gravel ballast must be designed for adequate securement using
   1. the RGC ballast guide (see 3.3.2 Ballasted Roof Assemblies, and 12.1 Protected and Modified Protected Membrane Roof Assemblies).
   2. the DOW 508.2 Ballast Design Guide for PMR Systems.
   3. custom-engineered systems (for pavers or other overburdens).
4. When pavers are selected as ballast for a PMRA or MPMRA, the Design Authority is responsible for determining the support and placement of pavers to resist wind uplift.
5. Modified Protected Membrane Roof Assemblies (MPMRAs) must be designed for wind resistance following the requirements for PMRAs and conventionally insulated roof assemblies.
6. The Design Authority is responsible for determining the proper securement of any overburden intended for placement on top of the roof platform. For design, material and installation standards pertaining to roofs as platforms, refer in this Manual to 14 The ROOF as a PLATFORM.

3.2 Materials

3.2.1 Material Substitutions in Tested Assemblies

1. When a manufacturer's Tested Assembly incorporates materials (and listed alternates) that are not part of the RoofStar Guarantee Program, the Design Authority must identify appropriate substitutions for those materials from the list of RoofStar-accepted Materials and consult the manufacturer concerning compatibility with the Tested Assembly.

3.2.2 Gravel Ballast

1. Gravel ballast used to secure a Protected Membrane Roof Assembly (or Modified PMRA) assembly must be clean, washed, round or crushed stone, falling within the following gradations:
   1. 35 mm (1 ½") - 100 % Passing
   2. 25 mm (1") 70 - 100 % Passing
   3. 20 mm (¾") 5 - 20 % Passing
   4. 12.7 mm (½") 0 - 6 % Passing
   5. 5 mm (3/16") 0 - 2 % Passing

Any variance to the above must be accepted in writing by the owner or the owner's representative, and submitted to the RoofStar Guarantee Program as part of the Guarantee record.

3.2.3 Fasteners and Adhesives

The following minimum standards apply to any roof assembly, regardless of requirements published elsewhere.

1. Fasteners and adhesives must be capable of securing the roof assembly components for Specified Wind Loads.
2. The Design Authority should specify the correct type of fastener, keeping in mind
   1. pull-out strength.
   2. corrosion resistance (contributing factors to fastener corrosion may include dissimilar metal contact, excessive building humidity, corrosive chemicals within components of the assembly, or corrosive elements provided within the building envelope etc.).
3. Unless otherwise listed in the assembly components of a Tested Assembly, self-drilling screws with recessed heads must be used in combination with plates as follows:
   

   Table 3.1 Minimum Fastener and Plate Requirements

   Material	Fastener Size	Plate
   Deck overlays	#12	73 mm (2-7/8”) Hexagonal, 76 mm (3”) Round or Square
   Insulation	#12	73 mm (2-7/8”) Hexagonal, 76 mm (3”) Round or Square
   Insulation Overlays	#12	73 mm (2-7/8”) Hexagonal, 76 mm (3”) Round or Square
   Membranes	#14	Proprietary

4. Adhesives listed in a selected Tested Assembly must be used to secure applicable layers within the roof assembly. Adhesives may be substituted only with products listed in the Tested Assembly report.
5. In the absence of a Tested Assembly, or for adhered and partially adhered assemblies with proven past performance, adhesives must be acceptable to the manufacturers of the roof assembly components.
6. Bitumen used as a hot-applied adhesive must be Type 3 or SEBS.

3.3 Application

(NOTE: this section is critical for both the Design Authority and the Contractor)

A properly secured roof assembly is the product of three essential steps:

Step 1: Calculate the Specified Wind Loads for the roof. Step 2: Select the type of Roof Assembly representative of the roof (conventionally insulated, or a Protected/Modified Protected Membrane Roof Assembly). Step 3: Design the securement system using available options, depending upon the type of assembly.

This section breaks down the RoofStar Guarantee Standards according to these three fundamental steps. The Standards published in this section are the minimum requirements, regardless of fastener or adhesive requirements in a Tested Assembly, an assembly with proven past performance, or any other assembly designed by other methodologies.

3.3.1 Step 1: Calculate Specified Wind Loads

The information in this section may assist the Design Authority in better understanding the complexities of calculating specified wind loads, how wind affects a roof and each of its zones, and how to properly apply fastener or adhesive configurations for each zone and its respective specified wind loads.

Specified Wind Loads are forces exerted by wind which, in the case of low-slope membrane roofs, both push and lift the roof assembly or its components. Often, the upward or uplift forces are expressed as a negative value (negative pressure), but these are influenced by many variables including, without limitation, wind speed, building height, roof slope, wall openings, roof overhangs and ground roughness.

Specified Wind Loads for membrane roof assemblies should be calculated using the available online Wind-RCI calculator. When the Wind-RCI calculator is not suitable (as, for example, when a building exceeds 150 feet in height), the Design Authority must refer to the BC Building Code, Div. B, Parts 4 and 5 for further guidance.

The report generated by the Wind-RCI calculator will specify the wind loads for the corners, the perimeter and the roof field. These zone loads must be applied in Step 3 when determining the method of roof assembly securement.

3.3.1.1 Non-conforming Buildings

When a building’s dimensions exceed the parameters of the Wind-RCI calculator, the following standards apply:

1. The Design Authority remains responsible for the proper design of a membrane roof assembly, regardless of its method of attachment. Refer to the BC Building Code, Div. B, Parts 4 and 5 for further guidance.
2. Roof assemblies for non-conforming buildings must be engineered for proper securement to withstand wind loads.
3. Non-conforming building roof assemblies must incorporate RoofStar-accepted materials.

3.3.2 Step 2: Select the Type of Roof Assembly

Methods for securing the roof depend, in part, on the type of roof. How a conventionally insulated roof is secured is quite different from the securement principles and methods for a Protected Membrane Roof Assembly. Conventionally insulated roofs that support any type of overburden should be treated like an uncovered roof, and secured accordingly (see below for options available to secure a conventional roof assembly); the Vegetated Assembly itself is subject to different securement methods, based on its own Specified Wind Loads. Protected Membrane assemblies, on the other hand, are secured completely separately. Guidance for these also is provided below.

Follow the path in Step 3 that fits with your roof assembly design.

3.3.3 Step 3: Design Roof Assembly Securement

The following sub-sections provide guidance for each of the following roof assemblies:

• Conventionally insulated
• Ballasted
• Roofs supporting an overburden
• Partially replaced roofs

3.3.3.1 Conventionally Insulated Roof Assemblies

Whether the conventionally insulated roof is covered or uncovered, it must be secured using one of three methods. These are presented below as a progression from simplicity to complexity, and from low cost (for the Design Authority) to high cost.

If the intent of the Design Authority is to replace only a part of the existing roof system, see 2.7.2 for guidance and options. See also 3.3.3.4 below.

3.3.3.1.1 Tested Assemblies

Tested Assemblies are material components that have been selected by the membrane manufacturer, secured using one of three methods, and subsequently tested by an independent certified laboratory to determine the limits of the assembly’s ability to resist negative wind pressure (loads), or ‘wind uplift’. Each of the three methods is expressed with an acronym:

MARS, or Mechanically Attached Roof Systems – these systems are held in place only with mechanical fasteners that are installed at the membrane layer.

PARS, or Partially Adhered Roof Systems – both mechanical fasteners and adhesives are used as a hybrid method of securement; the membrane is always adhered, using an applied adhesive or heat-welding.

AARS, or Adhesive Applied Roof Systems – these are roofs secured only with adhesives or heat-welded components.

To find a Tested Assembly, follow any of the links shown above.

1. The Design Authority is strongly encouraged to specify the application of a Tested Assembly, for any design of a new roof or full roof replacement.
2. The Design Authority must use only the test observation readings that have been adjusted for the Safety Factor.
3. Tested Assembly observation readings, reduced by the Safety Factor, must equal or exceed the highest Specified Wind Loads for the roof.
4. When a Tested Assembly report indicates only one system of securement, that system shall be applied to all roof zones.

3.3.3.1.2 Roof Assemblies with Proven Past Performance

1. A roof assembly with proven past performance is an assembly utilizing materials acceptable for the RoofStar Guarantee Program, that has a proven track record of wind uplift resistance
   1. for at least as long as the expected life of the roof assembly
   2. for buildings, and in conditions, that are reasonably representative of the Project the assembly will be specified for
2. Roof assemblies with proven past performance
   1. are an acceptable alternative to a Tested Assembly when
      1. a Tested Assembly cannot be used.
      2. material components in a Tested Assembly are not accepted by the RoofStar Guarantee Program, and the Tested Assembly offers no suitable alternates.
      3. a Tested Assembly is not available because
         1. a material or system has not been tested.
         2. the Specified Wind Loads exceed the capacity of an available for suitable Tested Assembly.
   2. may be used for partial roof replacement.
3. Assemblies with proven past performance must be
   1. designed to exceed the Specified Wind Loads for the building .
   2. supported with a signed letter of assurance, issued by the Design Authority or the manufacturer of the proven assembly, that the assembly will perform as required.
4. Approvals issued by FM Global or another underwriter, for roof assemblies capable of resisting the Specified Wind Load of the Project, may be given consideration by the RoofStar Guarantee Program, but must be delivered to the RCABC for review and written acceptance, along with a letter of assurance from the Design Authority or the manufacturer.

3.3.3.1.3 Engineered Designs

When, for various reasons, a system of securement cannot be designed using either a Tested Assembly or an assembly with proven past performance, the Design Authority must have the securement system designed by a qualified engineer following the requirements of the BCBC.

3.3.3.2 Ballasted Roof Assemblies

NOTE: the reader must consult the Design and Application requirements for 12.1 Protected and Modified Protected Membrane Roof Assemblies, and for 14 THE ROOF as a PLATFORM (with respect to Vegetated Roof Systems).

1. Roof assemblies secured with gravel ballast or pavers must be designed to resist wind uplift, regardless of any overburden the design may call for. To facilitate resistance to wind uplift,
   1. a filter fabric is required beneath gravel or paver ballast
   2. a protection layer is required beneath crushed ballast
   3. gravel ballast for a PMRA must conform to the following minimum requirements:

Table 3.2 RGC Ballast Guide

XPS Insulation Thickness	Stone Ballast Required Weight	Ballast Depth (approximate)
Up to 50 mm (2")	60 Kg/M2 (12 lb./sf)	40 mm (1 ¾")
75 mm (3")	8r Kg/M2 (17 lb./sf)	60 mm (2 ¼")
100 mm (4")	108 Kg/M2 (22 lb./sf)	75 mm (3")
125 mm (5")	132 Kg/M2 (27 lb./sf)	90 mm (3 ½")
150 mm (6")	156 Kg/M2 (32 lb./sf)	105 mm (4 ¼")
175 mm (7")	180 Kg/M2 (37 lb./sf)	125 mm (5")
200 mm (8")	204 Kg/M2 (42 lb./sf)	140 mm (5 ½")

3.3.3.3 Roofs Supporting an Overburden

1. Any supported overburden must be installed in keeping with the designed securement methods and systems specified by the Design Authority, and must equal or exceed the Specified Wind Loads for the roof.
2. Vegetated Roof Systems (VRSs) constructed in modules must be secured according to the methods specified by the Design Authority.

3.3.3.4 Partial Roof Replacements

1. When only a portion of an existing roof system is specified for replacement, the new materials must be secured to resist wind uplift. See also 1.4.2 Replacement Roofing.
2. Mechanical fastening is the most reliable method for securing new materials installed over an existing roof assembly. When mechanical fastening is not practicable, the system of securement must be specially engineered.

3.3.3.4.1 Mechanical Fastening

1. When mechanical fastening is specified by the Design Authority as the securement method, the minimum number and pattern of fasteners mandated by the RoofStar Guarantee Standards published below prevail unless exceeded by another reliable method.
2. Multiple layers of insulation that are mechanically fastened must be secured together, as if they are a single layer.
3. Mechanical fasteners must penetrate
   1. steel decks at least 20 mm (3/4") – fasteners should penetrate the top flutes only.
   2. into solid dimensional lumber or plywood sheathing by at least 25 mm (1").
4. When mechanically attached membranes are installed together with new insulation, the insulation assembly must be held in place independently from the membrane, as shown in Table 3.3.
5. Table 3.3 shows the minimum required number of fasteners, unless otherwise specified by a Tested Assembly. Also see the required patterns, displayed below the table:
   1. Fasteners must be installed no more than 150 mm (6”) from panel corners, measured from each edge of the panel.
   2. Fasteners used to secure boards from curling, or to secure boards at slope transitions, shall be in addition to the minimum number of fasteners and plates required by the patterns shown in Table 3.4.

Table 3.3 RGC Mechanical Fastening (minimum requirements)

Material Dimensions	Roof Zone
	Field	Perimeter	Corner
1200mm x 2400mm (4’ x 8’)
Deck Overlay supporting mechanically attached materials	4	4	4
Deck Overlay supporting adhered materials	8	12	15
Insulation	8	12	15
Insulation Overlays	8	12	15

1200mm x 1800mm (4’ x 6’)
Insulation	6	8	12

1200mm x 1200mm (4’ x 4’)
Insulation	5	6	8

900mm x 100mm (3’ x 4’)
Insulation	4	6	7

600mm x 2400mm (2’ x 8’)
Insulation	5	6	8

600mm x 1200mm (2’ x 4’)
Insulation	4	4	5

Table 3.4 RGC Fastener pattern requirements (illustrated)

1200mm x 2400mm (4’ x 8’)
Field	Perimeter	Corner
4 Fasteners	4 Fasteners	4 Fasteners
8 Fasteners	12 Fasteners	15 Fasteners
1200mm x 1800mm (4’ x 6’)
Field	Perimeter	Corner
6 Fasteners	8 Fasteners	12 Fasteners
1200mm x 1200mm (4’ x 4’)
Field	Perimeter	Corner
5 Fasteners	6 Fasteners	8 Fasteners
900mm x 1200mm (3’ x 4’)
Field	Perimeter	Corner
4 Fasteners	6 Fasteners	7 Fasteners
600mm x 2400mm (2’ x 8’)
Field	Perimeter	Corner
5 Fasteners	6 Fasteners	8 Fasteners
600mm x 1200mm (2’ x 4’)
Field	Perimeter	Corner
4 Fasteners	4 Fasteners	5 Fasteners

NOTE: Fastener locations are for optimum uplift resistance. Fasteners may be located within 50 mm (2") of position shown in diagrams in any direction.

3.3.3.4.2 Adhesive Applied

1. Adhesives may be used to secure new roofing materials to an existing roof system, provided the specific application procedures and methods are engineered by or for the Design Authority.
2. Notwithstanding the above, the minimum requirements set out in 7.3.2.4 apply.

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4 MATERIALS

Click here to view all the Materials accepted for use in the RoofStar Guarantee Program.

4.1 General

1. All roofing components installed by the contractor must be
   1. new
   2. accepted by the RoofStar Guarantee Program.
   3. manufactured by, or listed as acceptable to, the manufacturer of the primary field membrane or water-shedding material.

   
   

   A list of all Accepted Materials is published in this Manual (see link above).

2. All materials must be protected from weather, properly stacked and secured above ground or the roof surface and covered by wrappers approved or recommended by the manufacturer.
3. All installed roofing materials that are susceptible to moisture damage must be made watertight by the end of each work day.
4. Metals and fasteners must be compatible with each other, to avoid galvanic corrosion which can occur when dissimilar metals come in contact with each other.

4.1.1 Definitions

Refer to the Glossary for further definitions of key terms used in this Manual.

Primary Material means a roofing, waterproofing or water-shedding material which is directly exposed to the weather and which is primarily responsible for protecting secondary materials, and the building interior, from water and weather generally. Membranes, metal panels or shingles form the core of this material type.

Secondary Material means one which forms part of the roof or waterproofing assembly and which may affect the wind resistance characteristics of the entire assembly, but is not necessarily exposed to the weather.

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5 DECK and WALL OVERLAYS

See more information on Roof Deck Overlays in Section B: Essential Elements.

5.1 General

1. A roof deck overlay (also called a system underlay) is installed as part of the Roof Assembly, on the top surface of the roof deck but beneath the roofing materials. These products are most commonly affixed to steel decks to provide a level surface for the roof membrane, for air or vapour control layers, or to serve as a thermal barrier between the roof deck and combustible insulation. Roof deck overlay materials may also be applied to other types of supporting deck structures, depending on the roof design criteria.
2. When a roof design includes any type of overburden, the deck overlay on steel or wood decks less than 25 mm (1” ) thick should be at least 16 mm (5/8”) thick, to stiffen the supporting surface and reduce deck deflection.

5.2 Materials

1. Deck and wall overlays must be suitable for, and compatible with, any membrane or panel application. Plywood, measuring at least 12.7 mm (1/2”) in thickness, is acceptable as a deck or wall overlay; for roofs supporting an overburden, the plywood must be at least 16 mm (5/8”) thick.
2. When the Building Code having jurisdiction requires a thermal barrier, an accepted deck overlay must be specified and installed.
3. Walls that require resurfacing for membrane application must be covered with an accepted wall overlay. See Accepted Wall Overlays.
4. Fasteners used to secure deck overlays must be corrosion-resistant or resin-coated, and must be used together with plates when specified or listed in a Tested Assembly report.
5. See also Accepted Roof Deck Overlays.

5.3 Application

5.3.1 General

1. Deck overlays must be
   1. fully or intermittently supported along all edges by the deck.
   2. installed in a staggered pattern (offset) 300 mm (12") from adjacent board rows. A minus offset tolerance of 50 mm (2") maximum will be permitted to compensate for variance in the manufacturer's tolerance of differing board widths and lengths.
   3. affixed to the deck with either or both
      1. mechanical fasteners.
      2. proprietary polyurethane foam adhesives acceptable to the primary roof system manufacturer to meet or exceed the requirements set out in 3 SECURING the ROOF ASSEMBLY.
   4. independently fastened to the deck in keeping with either of the following:
      1. at least four (4) fasteners (with plates) per 1200 x 2400 (4’x8’) sheet, or
      2. as required by a Tested Assembly, when part of a PARS or MARS conventionally insulated roof assembly
2. Wall overlays
   1. must be applied to existing sheathing, where existing sheathing is not an acceptable substrate.
   2. may be mechanically fastened or adhered.
   3. may be replaced with an accepted material.

5.3.2 Steel Decks

1. RoofStar-accepted deck overlay boards used as a thermal barrier to achieve a specific fire rating must conform to the applicable code and insurance requirements for the roof assembly.
2. When the roof assembly is uninsulated, the deck must be overlaid with at least one layer of 12.7 mm (1/2”)
   1. moisture resistant gypsum core deck overlay board, or with
   2. plywood.

5.3.3 Concrete Decks

1. A deck overlay board is not mandatory on a concrete supporting deck.

5.3.4 Wood Decks

1. A mechanically-fastened overlay board is required for any deck structure that does not meet the deck fastening criteria set out in 2.3.3.3 Wood.
2. Regardless of the type of deck overlay selected by the Design Authority, the overlay boards shall be installed in a staggered pattern (offset) 300 mm (12") from adjacent board rows. A minus offset tolerance of 50 mm (2") maximum will be permitted to compensate for variance in the manufacturer's tolerance of differing board widths and lengths.
3. Adhering a primary roof membrane directly to a wood deck is not acceptable.
4. Notwithstanding article 3 above, a self-adhered air or vapour control layer may be applied to a supporting wood deck.
5. Mechanically-fastened or loose-laid membranes applied directly to a supporting wood deck structure do not require a deck overlay board unless specified by the membrane manufacturer.

5.3.5 Walls

1. Where the wall surface is unsuitable to receive a membrane, it must be covered with an accepted overlay material.
2. Wall overlays must be
   1. mechanically fastened with screw fasteners spaced no more than 300 mm (12”) O.C. vertically and horizontally, in alignment with structural supports, and placed
      1. at the perimeters.
      2. at the corners.
      3. in the field.
   2. adhered with a polyurethane adhesive, applied with a continuous z-patterned ribbon spaced no less than 300 mm (12”) apart.

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6 AIR and VAPOUR CONTROLS

See more information on Air and Vapour Control in Section B: Essential Elements.

6.1 General

6.1.1 Intent

Air and vapour control layers, along with thermal barriers, water resistive barriers and water-shedding surfaces, serve to separate the outside environment from the interior environments of a structure. Continuous air control layers are perhaps the most critical. Building Codes in force in each jurisdiction, and the National Energy Code (2011), require the selection and proper installation of “a continuous air barrier system comprised of air-barrier assemblies to control air leakage into and out of the conditioned space” (NEC 2011).

Continuity of the air and vapour control layers from the wall systems and roof systems is essential to the satisfactory performance of either or both. Therefore, proper connection between air and vapour control systems is essential, and the responsibility of both the Design Authority and trades constructing walls and roofs.

Air control layers control “flow of air through the building enclosure, either inward or outward” (Guide for Designing Energy Efficient Building Enclosures, Homeowner Protection Office). Controlling air flow into and out of conditioned spaces affects the performance of “thermally efficient enclosure assemblies” (ibid), impacts the potential for condensation in between materials, and directly influences rain water penetration of the building envelope. Some air control layers are considered permeable, others air-impermeable or ‘airtight’. The suitability of one over the other, in the application of a roofing system, is left to the discernment of the Design Authority. Consequently, the RoofStar Guarantee Program strongly recommends that designers and builders of roof systems intended to qualify for a RoofStar Guarantee carefully consider the regulatory design and installation requirements for effective, continuous air control systems.

Vapour control layers regulate or prohibit the movement of water vapour from one space to another by means of diffusion. Consequently, these control layers are referred to as either vapour-permeable or impermeable. Diffusion is a slow process, in contrast to air movement, and its regulation is not always mandatory or even desirable. Consequently, because continuous vapour control layers “are not needed within all climate zones and assemblies”, they are considered non-critical and may be left to the discretion of the Design Authority. Nevertheless, where continuous vapour control layers are required and specified by provincial or municipal building codes (current and in force), the RoofStar Guarantee Program requires that a suitable vapour control system be selected by the Design Authority and properly installed by the roofing contractor in conformity with the vapour control layer manufacturer’s published instructions, and with the Design Authority’s specified details.

Any references in this Manual to installation methodologies, and any construction details that show air and vapour control layers, are merely illustrative and not prescriptive. Installers of continuous air and vapour control layer systems are urged to understand and comply with best practices for their application.

6.1.2 Limitations and Exclusions

1. Air and vapour control layer performance is not part of the RoofStar Guarantee, and air and vapour control materials are not listed in the Accepted Materials section of this Manual. Therefore, the decision to specify air and vapour control layers, the placement of continuous air and vapour control layers in relation to a roof assembly and its components, and the selection of suitable materials for that application, is the sole responsibility of the Design Authority. The Design Authority is urged to review and consider the performance characteristics of materials available for such applications.
2. Neither the RoofStar Guarantee Program nor the roofing contractor will accept any responsibility for damage to, or failure of, the roof system caused by the use or absence of air or vapour control layers.
3. In some roof assembly designs, the required underlayment may serve as an air control layer, vapour control layer, or both; this is dependent upon the properties of the material to be used, and will be subject to the designer’s modelling of the assembly. Consult the Technical Data Sheets for suitable materials.

6.1.3 Air and Vapour Controls for High-Humidity Building Interiors

1. Careful consideration should be given to the performance characteristics of air and vapour control layers when specifying such a membrane for roof assemblies constructed over high-humidity building interiors. These types of building interiors include (but are not limited to)
   1. Swimming pools
   2. Commercial laundry facilities
   3. Large aquariums
   4. Paper mills

Roof systems for facilities such as these, with high-humidity environments, may be susceptible to the accumulation of moisture within the roof assembly unless an effective air and vapour controls are installed.

6.2 Materials

1. The material selected for an air and vapour control layers must be compatible with any other materials in the roof or wall assembly to which the control layer may come in contact. This includes, without limitation, contact with primers and adhesives, substrates, solvents and cleaners.
2. Fully supported air and vapour control layers should possess a minimum published static puncture resistance rating of 150 N (34 lbf) (ref. CGSB-37.56-M for both test method and standard limits) and be either self-adhering or torch-applied; a high puncture resistance is necessary for the membrane to withstand accidental damage during construction. For unsupported air and vapour control layers, see 6.2.3 below. Therefore, while responsibility for the selection of suitable air and vapour control layers rests with the Design Authority, a roof designed and built to qualify for a RoofStar Guarantee shall not include either polyethylene sheet plastic or bitumen-impregnated kraft paper.
3. Notwithstanding any of the foregoing, the RoofStar Guarantee Program strongly recommends that any air and/or vapour control systems be installed over a smooth, continuous plane (for example, concrete or plywood). Consequently, a deck overlay board installed on corrugated steel roof decks in highly recommended. Where no deck overlay board is installed and the air and vapour control layers are partially unsupported (for example, on a steel deck), the control layers each must have a published static puncture resistance of at least 400 N (90 lbf). Furthermore, both the side laps and end laps must be fully supported.
4. Should the air or vapour control layers be used as a temporary roof during Project construction by either the roofing contractor or by other trades, a minimum 2mm thick bituminous membrane is recommended.
5. Because curing concrete releases considerable moisture that can compromise the performance of a roof system, a vapour control layer installed on new concrete decks (28 days or older) must be selected to prevent condensation inside the roof system. A membrane with a permeability of 0.01 perms (Class I) is recommended. Nevertheless, the selection of the vapour control material is the responsibility of the Design Authority.

6.3 Application

1. Proper installation and continuity of air and vapour control layers within the roof assembly is the responsibility of the roofing contractor. Therefore, air and vapour control layers in the roof assembly must
   1. extend beyond the end of the roof assembly at least 100 mm (4”), in new construction, to provide sufficient room for the installation of matching control layers to so that they provide a positive (water-shedding) lap seal union between courses of material.
   2. be sealed to matching control layers in the wall assembly, for roof replacement Projects.
2. Installation must conform to the manufacturer’s published requirements and the Design Authority’s design details.

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7 INSULATION

See more information on Insulating the Roof in Section B: Essential Elements.

7.1 General

7.1.1 Definitions

Refer to the Glossary for further definitions of key terms used in this Manual.

Heat-sensitive insulation means insulation that may be physically or chemically altered when exposed to heat greater than 70°C (158°F) - for example, heat from a torch or from liquefied bitumen. Heat-sensitive insulation includes EPS, XPS and Polyurethane.

Heat-resistant insulation means insulation that resists heat and will not physically or chemically change when exposed to heat greater than 70°C (158°F), including liquefied bitumen. Insulation boards of this type include fibreboard, polyisocyanurate and mineral wool. Note that heat-resistant does not mean or even infer 'fire-proof'. While some heat-resistant insulation materials will resist burning for a period of time, only mineral wool insulation will not burn.

7.1.2 Design

1. The use of thermal barrier between the roof deck and the insulation is the responsibility of the Design Authority and may be required by the Building and Fire Code having jurisdiction. See also 5 DECK and WALL OVERLAYS.
2. Consult the Building Code having jurisdiction for the minimum required thermal resistance of the roof assembly.
3. Insulation materials rely on various standards for the determination of thermal resistance, which means that not all data can be easily compared. Furthermore, not all insulation products perform with consistent thermal resistance as temperature changes, and some insulation performance declines with age. The Design Authority is therefore urged to consider the Long Term Thermal Resistance (LTTR) for each product, in relation to its placement within the roof assembly and the anticipated outside and interior climates of the building.
4. In warm seasons, the roof surface may reach temperatures higher than 85°C (185°F), affecting the performance and stability of some insulation. Combining insulation types in a roof assembly may help mitigate these temperature swings and consequential distortion of the assembly. The Design Authority therefore must consider these variables when specifying materials and their installation.
5. When heat-sensitive insulations are used in the primary thermal assembly, they must be covered with a heat-resistant insulation at least 50 mm (2”) thick. See also 7.1.2.9 below.
6. Insulation assemblies with a cumulative thermal resistance greater than RSI-2.64 (R-15) (based on published LTTR values measured at 24°C) must be installed in multiple layers that are offset and staggered (see 7.3 Application). Within that multi-layered assembly, any single layer of insulation may have a thermal resistance greater than RSI-2.64 (R-15) provided no one layer exceeds 60% of the cumulative thermal resistance of the combined assembly of insulation and insulation overlay boards.
7. Tapered insulation can be utilized to slope the surface of the roof assembly to achieve adequate drainage (see 2.2 Roof Slopes). The thermal resistance of tapered insulation may be used in calculating the overall thermal performance of the roof assembly and may vary depending upon the layout of the sloped insulation package, but this is at the discretion of the Design Authority.
8. Tapered insulation
   1. greater than 150 mm (6”) in thickness shall be installed in multiple soldiered layers.
   2. must be installed beneath at least one layer of flat board heat-resistant insulation with a minimum thickness of 50 mm (2”).
9. Crickets are used strictly to direct water toward drains or around obstructions, and therefore do not factor in the thermal resistance of the roof assembly. Nevertheless, when a cricket is installed over the primary insulation assembly, the cricket must be manufactured of heat-resistant insulation. In the alternative, crickets manufactured from heat-sensitive insulation must be covered with a layer of heat-resistant insulation at least 50 mm (2”) thick. See also 8.3.3.2.
10. Regardless of average thermal resistance calculations for the roof assembly, drain sumps should be adequately insulated, based on the regional location of the building. See 11.1.2.1 for drain sump design.
11. Mineral wool insulation panels must be fastened or adhered according to the manufacturer’s published instructions and tested assemblies, but in any event must conform to the following Guarantee Standards, which are summarized as follows:
    1. Only bitumen-coated Mineral Wool insulation may be used in the top-most layer of insulation, or may be secured with adhesive.
    2. A Non-Coated Mineral Wool base insulation layer is permissible only by mechanically fastening, but may not have additional insulation layers adhered to it.
    3. When mineral wool insulation is mechanically fastened, a 12 mm (1/2”) insulation overlay board is required, whether or not overburden is present.
    4. Roofs without overburden – an insulation overlay board is not required when bitumen-coated mineral wool insulation is adhered as a single layer, or when it is adhered as the top layer in a multi-layer assembly.
    5. Roofs with overburden – mineral wool insulation in a roof assembly that will support an overburden must be overlaid with an insulation overlay board at least 12 mm (1/2”) thick, irrespective of the method by which the insulation is fastened.

Optional combinations are illustrated below (hover over any image and click on the link to expand it):

Figure 7.1

Click here to open in new window Single layer (adhered) Click here to open in new window Single layer (mechanically fastened) Click here to open in new window Double layer (adhered) Click here to open in new window Double layer (hybrid securement) Click here to open in new window Double layer (mechanically fastened) Click here to open in new window Double layer (adhered, with overburden) Click here to open in new window Double layer (hybrid securement,with overburden) Click here to open in new window Double layer (mechanically fastened, with overburden)

7.2 Materials

Only insulation boards accepted for use in the RoofStar Guarantee Program may be used to qualify for a RoofStar Guarantee. Specific standards and limitations for commonly used insulation types are listed below. To see the full range of insulation products accepted for the RoofStar Guarantee Program, refer to the full listing of accepted Insulation materials.

1. All insulation types shall have a minimum compressive strength of 110 KPa (20 psi) when installed without a cover board under mechanically attached membranes.
2. Polyisocyanurate:
   1. Only polyisocyanurate insulation with non-organic facers (e.g. fibreglass) are acceptable for use in the RoofStar Guarantee Program. In addition, manufacturers’ product identification labels are required for all Polyisocyanurate insulation packaging and the date of manufacture must be provided on all product labels.
   2. Polyisocyanurate insulation, which is manufactured to various dimensions and board thicknesses, is suitable only for conventionally insulated roof assemblies and may be manufactured in sloped packages, for individual crickets or for full roof area application.
3. Mineral wool – manufactured to various dimensions and board thicknesses, and may be manufactured in sloped packages, for individual crickets or for full roof area application. Mineral wool insulation is suitable only for conventionally insulated roof assemblies.
4. Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) – EPS insulation is manufactured in various board dimensions and may be manufactured in sloped packages, for individual crickets or for full roof area application. EPS is suitable only for conventionally insulated roof assemblies.
5. Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) – XPS insulation is a closed-cell material manufactured in various board dimensions, and is mainly used in a Protected Membrane Roof Assembly. Only Extruded Polystyrene Insulation (conforming to CAN / CGSB-51.20-M87, Type 4) may be used on Protected Membrane Roof Assemblies. For more about PMRAs, see Protected and Modified Protected Roof Systems. See also 14 THE ROOF as a PLATFORM.
6. Material dimensions:
   1. The maximum width and length of any adhered insulation panel shall be 1200 mm (4’) (see also 3.3.2 Adhesive Applied and 7.3.2 (4) below).
   2. The maximum width and length of insulation boards installed with mechanical fasteners is limited only by the manufacturer.
   3. Insulation installed directly over a fluted steel deck must be thick enough to span the flutes under live loads, without risk of cracking or breakage.

7.3 Application

7.3.1 General

See also 3 SECURING the ROOF ASSEMBLY.

7.3.2 Alignment, Sizing and Support

1. On steel roof decks, insulation boards must be firmly supported.
2. Insulation boards must be square and make firm, full contact with adjacent panels. Gaps between boards must be filled with expanding spray foam.
3. Insulation board joints must be offset at least 300 mm (12"), both for adjacent layers and for adjacent rows; a minus offset tolerance of 50 mm (2") maximum is permissible. Insulation offsets are not required for
   1. sloped insulation boards that are generally installed soldiered fashion to adjacent rows.
   2. the first layer of overlay board over heat sensitive insulation, which may be soldiered to facilitate joint taping.
4. Unless specified otherwise by a Tested Assembly or in an engineered specification (see 3.3.3.4.2 Adhesive Applied), the following minimum standards apply to adhesive-applied insulation:
   1. The maximum width and length of any adhered insulation panel shall be 1200 mm (4’).
   2. The maximum length of any insulation overlay panel shall be 2400 mm (8’).
   3. When Extruded polystyrene insulation is adhered with a two-component low-rise polyurethane foam adhesive, the faces of the insulation board must be roughened by planing to achieve optimal adhesion.
   4. Two-component low-rise polyurethane foam adhesive ribbons must be applied
      1. in a Z-pattern, no more than 150 mm (6”) from any edge of the board, and spaced no more than 300 mm (12”) apart.
      2. to a clean, dry and contaminant-free surface.
      3. in ribbon widths specified by the adhesive manufacturer or, in the absence of manufacturer requirements, 19 mm (3/4”) wide.
   5. Roof system components adhered with two-component low-rise polyurethane foam must be
      1. installed immediately in wet adhesive (before a surface skin develops).
      2. properly placed and weighted in wet adhesive until cured.
   6. Hot bitumen used to adhere a roof assembly
      1. must be applied at minimum rates and temperatures based on the type of product, as published by the material manufacturer and in the RoofStar Guarantee Standards for Built-up Roof (BUR) Assemblies.
      2. may be applied on slopes up to 1/2:12 (for steeper slopes, select a different method of securement).

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8 INSULATION OVERLAYS

8.1 General

1. Insulation overlay boards are installed in most conventionally insulated roof assemblies to
   1. protect heat-sensitive insulation materials from damage by heat and flame.
   2. protect insulation materials from accidental impact.
   3. provide dimensional stability to the roof system.
   4. distribute dead loads from heavy overburdens or equipment installed on top of the finished roof assembly.
   5. ensure the membrane performs as it should.
   6. provide a suitable substrate for membrane application.
2. Insulation overlay boards may be mechanically attached or adhered, depending upon the insulation type and the design requirements of the roof assembly as a whole. See more information on Insulation Joints and Overlays in Essential Elements.

8.1.1 Design

1. When heat-sensitive insulations are used in a roof assembly, they must be covered with a heat-resistant insulation at least 50 mm (2”) thick. See also 7.1.2 Design.
2. When EPS crickets are specified and installed, a minimum overlay of flat board heat-resistant insulation measuring at least 50 mm (2”) thick is strongly recommended.
3. A conventionally insulated roof assembly supporting an overburden must be designed with at least one layer of adhered composite insulation overlay
   1. no less than 12.7 mm (½") thick.
   2. with a minimum compressive strength of 620 kPa (90 psi).

See also 14.1.2.1

8.2 Materials

See Insulation Overlays accepted for use in RoofStar Guaranteed roof systems.

Table 8.1 Insulation Overlay Minimum Thicknesses

Material	Minimum Thickness - mm (in.)
Moisture-resistant gypsum core board	6.4 (1/4")
Asphaltic core board	4.5 (3/16")
Composite board	6.4 (1/4")
Fibreboard	As listed in this Manual
Membrane-laminated overlays	As listed in this Manual
Mineral wool	As listed in this Manual

1. Regardless of the type of insulation overlay, the overall thickness of insulation overlay boards shall not exceed 50 mm (2”). Minimum allowable thicknesses are shown in Table 8.1 above.
2. Asphalt or paraffin-impregnated coated fibreboard roof insulation adhered with hot asphalt or an asphalt-based adhesive must be asphalt-coated on the top and bottom surface (minimum coated two-sides).
3. Fire guard tape must be 150 mm (6”) wide
   1. self-adhering modified bituminous tape acceptable to the membrane manufacturer.
   2. Type IV fibreglass felt or No. 15 organic felt, applied with hot bitumen or cold adhesive.

8.3 Application

8.3.1 General

1. An insulation overlay of one or more layers is required over all board-type insulation when
   1. the compressive strength of the insulation is less than 110 KPa (20 psi).
   2. the insulation is heat-sensitive and the membrane will be applied with a torch flame or hot bitumen.
2. When multiple layers of an overlay board are required, the joints between boards must be offset/staggered at least 300 mm (12") from adjacent layers and rows. See also 7 INSULATION .
3. When mechanically attaching insulation overlay boards, the insulation and overlay boards may be fastened together as one assembly. Unless otherwise indicated by the system requirements in a Tested Assembly, follow the fastener patterns set out in 3 SECURING the ROOF ASSEMBLY.
4. Insulation in a conventionally insulated roof assembly supporting an Overburden must be overlaid with at least one layer of adhered composite insulation overlay
   
   
   1. at least 12.7 mm (½") thick.
   2. with a minimum compressive strength of 620 kPa (90 psi).
      
      

   See 14 The ROOF as a PLATFORM for design and construction standards.

5. Fibreboard shall not be used with torch-applied membranes.
6. An insulation overlay is not required when the base layer of the primary roof membrane is mechanically attached, provided the insulation is heat-resistant and has a compressive strength of 110 Kpa (20 psi).

8.3.2 Overlaying Heat-resistant Insulation

1. An insulation overlay is not required over heat-resistant insulation
   1. unless the
      1. compressive strength of the top layer of insulation is less than 110 KPa (20 psi).
      2. insulation is mineral wool, and is mechanically fastened through the uppermost insulation layer.
   2. when the top layer in a multi-layered insulation assembly is adhered bitumen-faced mineral wool insulation.
2. When an overlay board is required over mineral wool insulation, the overlay board must be a moisture resistant gypsum core board measuring at least 12.7 mm (1/2") thick. See also 7.2 concerning Mineral Wool Insulation.
3. A single layer of insulation overlay is acceptable when an overlay is specified for heat resistant insulation.

8.3.3 Overlaying Heat-sensitive Insulation

1. When the roof membrane is applied with heat or hot bitumen, heat-sensitive insulation in the primary thermal assembly must be overlaid with a layer of heat-resistant insulation at least 50 mm (2”) thick. See 7.1.2.5 and 8.3.2 above.
2. When EPS crickets are specified and installed, a minimum overlay of flat board heat-resistant insulation measuring at least 50 mm (2”) thick is strongly recommended. See also 7.1.2.9.

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9 FIELD MEMBRANES

See more information on Low-slope Membranes in Essential Elements.

9.1 General

SBS-modified bituminous membranes are normally designed for application only on low-sloped structural roof decks and come in a variety of thicknesses and surface finishes, may be reinforced with different materials (each reinforcement material exhibiting particular properties and offering different benefits), and may each be applied in one or more ways.

Most SBS-modified bituminous membranes are designed as two separate plies – a base and cap membrane – which are bonded together as a 2-ply assembly. A third ply is occasionally part of the manufacturer's specified assembly, and may be required or simply prudent for additional waterproofing protection in certain circumstances.

Common applications include:

1. Mechanically fastened (where the base membrane is affixed to the roof deck with self-drilling screws and load-distributing plates; the cap membrane is then torch-applied to the base).
2. Torch-applied (where torch heat brought to bear on the both the base and cap membranes liquefies the modified bitumen in the membrane so that it bonds with the substrate below).
3. Adhered:
   1. Self-adhering (using a proprietary adhesive film bonded to the modified bitumen, SA membranes are often adhered with the help of a primer; occasionally, the base membrane is self-adhering, and the cap membrane is then torch-applied to the base).
   2. Cold-adhered (using bitumen-based or synthetic adhesives, this may sometimes be referred to as 'cold-applied’).
   3. Hot bitumen adhered (sometimes referred to as 'hot-mopped', 'hot-applied' or simply 'mopped', this application method applies to both the base and cap membranes, or may apply only to the base membrane; the cap, then, is torch-applied to the base membrane).

9.1.1 Design

1. All membrane systems shall conform to the CSA A123.21 Standard test method for the dynamic wind uplift resistance of membrane roofing systems (latest edition), unless otherwise permitted in these Guarantee Standards. See also 3 SECURING the ROOF ASSEMBLY.
2. The specifications, details, and installation techniques must conform to the membrane manufacturer's requirements.
3. Select a membrane for its
   1. composition, both in terms of thickness and reinforcement.
   2. performance characteristics in relation to the intended use of the roof, as for example puncture resistance or reflectivity and reduced heat absorption.
   3. application methodology, which may be limited by the type of supporting deck or substrate to which it will be applied.
   4. seasonal applications (summer and winter grades).
4. A nailed base membrane, to which a cap membrane is torch-applied, does not qualify as part of a 2-ply membrane. Only base membranes designed for in-seam screw-type fasteners, and covered with a fully torch-applied cap membrane, may qualify.
5. Primary roof membranes may not be directly adhered to a wood deck.
6. When a roof system installed on a concrete deck or topping is uninsulated, the base membrane must be vented in order to mitigate the effects of vapour drive from the concrete.
7. When the roof slope exceeds 1:24 (1/2” in 12”), only cap membranes installed by methods other than with hot bitumen may be specified.
8. Any roof areas less than 1:16 (¾" in 12") require 2 ply membrane assemblies. Single-ply SBS-modified bituminous membranes may be used only when the roof slope is greater than 1:16 (¾” in 12”), and may be adhered, self-adhered, mechanically fastened, or torch-applied to the substrate for which they are designed and specified. See the Application section below for specific RoofStar Guarantee requirements for single-ply SBS-modified membranes.
9. At roof slope transitions locations where slopes of less than 1:16 (¾" in 12") meet steeper slopes, a 2-ply membrane assembly must be designed to extend 900 mm (36") beyond the lower sloped roof transition point.
10. Installed membranes must be protected from damage caused by work performed concurrently or subsequently by other trades. The Design Authority is strongly urged to direct the work of other trades through specific, explicit directives in the design specifications.
11. Membranes must be protected from chemicals or other contaminants that may adversely impact the roof membrane or other system components (for example, specifying a grease guard or a reinforced 2-part liquid membrane coating). Consult the membrane manufacturer for their advice and recommendations. Contaminants may include, without limitation,
    1. animal or vegetable grease.
    2. hot pipes (release valves).
    3. petroleum products or bi-products.
    4. miscellaneous fluids from equipment, detrimental to the membrane.
       
       

    See also 9.2.1 (Materials) and 9.3.6 (Application). Also refer to 11.3.3.3 for application of reinforced liquid membrane flashing around roof penetrations.

12. Membranes should be protected from the following contaminants:
    1. pool or garden chemicals and fertilizers.
    2. pet urine.
    3. bird excrement.
    4. refrigerants.
13. When a conventionally insulated roof will be accessed regularly for maintenance of equipment, the design should incorporate designated walkways to protect the primary membrane.
14. Where walkways are employed, they must be designed to facilitate drainage of water. Pedestals and other paver supports provide airflow for drying surfaces and assist in leveling. They should not impede the flow of water or air, and should uniformly distribute the dead load of pavers and predicted live loads. The Design Authority may specify
    1. accepted concrete-topped XPS insulation panels.
    2. pavers placed on
       1. purpose-made pedestals and rubber pads.
       2. drainage mats.
       3. XPS insulation panels with drainage grooves or channels.
    3. proprietary walkway membranes installed in segments.
    4. coatings or Accepted 2-part liquid membranes applied over the field membrane (see 9.3.6).
15. Only PARS and AARS assemblies are permitted when a conventional roof, or a portion of it, is designed to support any type of load; pavers supported by pedestals are an exception. This is subject to the limitations and standards in 14.1.2 Design.
16. Only fully adhered membranes may be used in a Protected Membrane Roof Assembly; mechanically attached membranes are not suitable and shall not be used for this application.
17. Fall protection warning zones (see WorkSafeBC Regulations and related materials) may be designed using
    1. primary roof membranes in contrasting colours.
    2. a "sacrificial" third ply installed over the primary cap membrane.
    3. a coating applied to the primary cap membrane, to demarcate the safety boundary.
18. A sacrificial third ply is not part of the roof system and therefore is specifically excluded from coverage under a RoofStar Guarantee. See also 1.6 RoofStar Guarantee: Coverage and Limitations.

9.2 Materials

See Accepted SBS-Modified Bituminous Membranes for RoofStar Guaranteed roof systems. See also 3 SECURING the ROOF ASSEMBLY for special requirements concerning Membrane Roof Systems.

9.2.1 Composition, Thickness and Selection

1. Both the base and cap membranes in 2 or 3-Ply SBS-modified bituminous membrane assembly must be modified with the same polymer. For example, if the cap membrane is modified with SBS, then the base membrane must be SBS-modified also. Oxidized asphalt membranes will be considered as underlay only and must not be counted as one of two plies.
2. Membranes must be selected from the Accepted Materials, and each membrane must conform the minimum requirements outlined in the table below:
   

   Table 9.1 SBS-modified Bituminous Membranes: Type, Reinforcement, Thickness and Accepted Applications
   All thicknesses shown are in mm; Puncture Resistance measured in Newtons (N)

   	2-Ply SBS Modified Roof Membranes: Field & Membrane Flashing					SBS Cap Sheet under Vegetated Assemblies			Single-Ply SBS Cap Sheet for Slopes >3/4:12			SBS Waterproofing Membranes
   Membrane Type, Reinforcement & Grade	Mechanically Fastened (mm)	Adhesive Applied (mm)	Self- Adhered (mm)	Torch- Applied (mm)		Thickness (mm)	Puncture Resistance (N)		Thickness (mm)	Puncture Resistance (N)		Thickness (mm)	Puncture Resistance (N)
   Base Sheet (fibreglass) - Grade 3	2.3	2.2	2.3	2.3		n/a	n/a		n/a	n/a		3.0	n/a
   Base Sheet (polyester) - Grade 3	2.5	2.2	2.5	2.5		3.5	400		n/a	n/a		3.0	n/a
   Base Sheet (composite) - Grade 3	2.3	2.2	2.3	2.3		3.5	400		n/a	n/a		3.0	n/a
   Film Cap Sheet (fibreglass) - Grade 2	n/a	3.3	3.3	4.0		n/a	n/a		n/a	n/a		n/a	n/a
   Film Cap Sheet (polyester) - Grade 2	n/a	3.5	3.5	4.0		4.0	400		4.0	400		3.0	400
   Film Cap Sheet (composite) - Grade 2	n/a	3.3	3.3	4.0		4.0	400		4.0	400		3.0	400
   Granular Cap Sheet (fibreglass) - Grade 1	n/a	3.3	3.3	4.0		n/a	n/a		n/a	n/a		n/a	n/a
   Granular Cap Sheet (polyester) - Grade 1	n/a	3.5	3.5	4.0		4.0	400		4.0	400		3.0	400
   Granular Cap Sheet (composite) - Grade 1	n/a	3.3	3.3	4.0		4.0	400		4.0	400		3.0	400

3. Liquid membranes must be reinforced and accepted for use over a base membrane ply acceptable to the manufacturer of the liquid membrane.
4. Some membranes may be susceptible to damage from bird droppings, pet urine or chemical contamination (oils, solvents or any discharge from a mechanical unit). The Design Authority is strongly urged to consider these issues in light of the overall Project design, consult with the membrane manufacturer for guidance, and provide adequate membrane protection when it is necessary. See also 14 Roof Coverings and Living Spaces.

9.2.2 Fasteners and Adhesives

See 3.2.3 Fasteners and Adhesives for attachment requirements.

9.2.3 Accessories

1. All materials, including but not limited to primers, mastics, granules or coatings, that comprise the roof system must be supplied or accepted by the membrane manufacturer.

9.3 Application

9.3.1 General

1. Membranes must be installed according to the manufacturer's published instructions, details and installation techniques. Regardless of the instructions, the following standards prevail:
   1. All membrane openings at eaves, walls, vents, etc. must be sealed during application to prevent moisture from entering roofing or between plies of stripping.
   2. Except for the application of picture-framing techniques (see below under 10.3.3 Alternative Approaches to Membrane Flashing), both the base and cap membranes must be installed in a parallel direction (not perpendicular to each other).
   3. Both the base and cap membranes of a 2-ply un-granulated membrane assembly must be installed separately. Installation "shingle fashion" (i.e., 50% lap) is not acceptable except where membrane "back nailing" is required.
   4. Membranes should be installed beginning at the lowest point of the roof.
   5. When a roof system installed on a concrete deck or topping is uninsulated, the base membrane must be vented in order to mitigate the effects of vapour drive from the concrete.
   6. All membranes must
      1. overlap adjacent membranes (side laps) at least 75 mm (3”)
      2. overlap the end of the next membrane run at least 150 mm (6") - angle-cut the selvedge corner of the underlying membrane as required by the membrane manufacturer
      3. be offset from adjacent membrane end laps by at least 300 mm (12”)
         
         

      For reference, see the 2-ply SBS modified bitumen membrane layout diagram.

   7. When membranes are mechanically fastened, side laps must be at least 100 mm (4”) and cover the fastener plate by at least 50 mm (2”).
   8. Ensure seams are fully bonded, both along the sides at and the ends of membrane runs:
      1. All base membrane field seams, regardless of the type of application, must be “buttered” before the end of the working day.
      2. All cap membranes must exhibit continuous visible bitumen bleed-out along seam edges.
      3. Cap membrane runs must be offset from the base field membrane seams, according to the membrane manufacturer's published instructions, and centred over drains.
2. Any roof areas less than 1:16 (¾" in 12") require 2 ply membrane assemblies.
3. At roof slope transitions locations where slopes of less than 1:16 (¾" in 12") meet steeper slopes a 2-ply membrane assembly must extend 900 mm (36") beyond the lower sloped roof transition point.
4. Installation during cold weather must follow the membrane manufacturer’s guidelines for storage and membrane conditioning.
5. At the end of a day, or when installation must be stopped because of circumstance (such as inclement weather), the base membrane of a conventionally insulated roof assembly must be temporarily and continuously sealed to envelope the insulation and other components enclosed below the 2-ply membrane system. Care must be taken to seal all possible points by which water might enter the new roof assembly.
6. All installed membranes must be protected from splashed or dripped primer used to enhance adhesion of self-adhering membranes, as the primer may damage the membranes and cause leaks. This standard also applies to work by other trades, who may use primers for self-adhering membranes typically installed on walls or around doors, windows or other wall penetrations.

9.3.2 Materials Storage and Handling

1. All uninstalled materials must be
   1. protected from weather
   2. stacked above ground or the roof surface in packaging provided
   3. approved or recommended by the manufacturer

9.3.3 Mechanically Attached Membranes

1. Whenever possible, orient mechanically-fastened membranes perpendicular to steel deck flutes in order to distribute fasteners across the deck.
2. To secure the membrane, use fasteners and stress plates that are
   1. specifically designed for the application of the specified and installed membrane, or are
   2. listed in the Tested Assembly report as an acceptable alternative (Substitutions, without the written consent of the primary membrane manufacturer, are not permitted and may void the RoofStar Guarantee).
3. Unless otherwise listed in the assembly components of a Tested Assembly, membranes shall be fastened with self-drilling purpose-made #14 screws having a deep-recessed head.
4. Single ply modified bituminous membranes
   1. must comply with the requirements listed in the table above (see 9.2.1 Composition, Thickness and Selection).
   2. require a minimum slope 1:16 (¾" in 12").

9.3.4 Torch-applied Membranes

1. Directly torch-applying any membrane to wood is strictly prohibited.
2. Torch-applied membranes must be applied to a suitable substrate (primed if required by the membrane manufacturer).
3. Ensure that the membrane is fully and evenly bonded to the substrate. As the roll is installed, the roofer must
   1. sufficiently pre-heat the side lap of the preceding roll
   2. burn off any film used to protect the uninstalled membrane surface
   3. ensure sufficient heat melts the bottom layer of bitumen across the full width of the roll, to adequately bond the membrane to the substrate (A small "wave" or "bead" of melted bitumen in front of the roll usually indicates sufficient heat)
   4. Membrane end lap corners must be cut on a bias (clipped or trimmed on an angle) prior to forming end laps on all torch-applied modified bituminous membrane roof assemblies
   5. Embed granules prior to forming end laps on all torch-applied modified bituminous cap membranes
4. The applicator must not over-torch or over-heat membranes. The polyester fabric used as reinforcement in many thermofusible "torch-on" membranes is subject to dimensional changes at high temperatures.
5. Install cap membranes as soon as possible after base membrane installation. Installed base membranes must be protected from dirt, debris and damage; any damage sustained by the installed base membrane must be adequately repaired following the procedures recommended by the membrane manufacturer. This work is the responsibility of the roofing contractor.

9.3.5 Adhered Membranes

9.3.5.1 General

1. Membranes may be
   1. self-adhering, typically requiring a primer to enhance adhesion (refer to the manufacturer's published instructions).
   2. adhered with
      1. cold adhesives (synthetic or bitumen-based).
      2. mop-applied hot bitumen (bitumen that is melted in a kettle).
         
         

   Different RoofStar Guarantee Standards apply to each of these, depending on the membrane type, the method of application and the slope of the roof.

2. SBS-modified bituminous membranes shall not be fully adhered directly to a supporting wood deck structure. Rather,
   1. overlay the wood deck with a RoofStar-accepted deck overlay board, to which the membrane may be adhered.
   2. semi-adhere a vented base membrane to the wood deck.
   3. substitute a fully-adhered membrane assembly with a mechanically-attached membrane.

9.3.5.2 Self-adhered and Cold Adhesive-applied Membranes

1. When both the base and cap membranes are self-adhered, the cap membrane must be installed on a clean, dry base and both must be completed together on the same work day, according to the manufacturer’s published instructions. Phased installation of membranes is not permitted.
2. To ensure even, full contact with the substrate, all self-adhered and cold adhesive-applied field membranes must be fully rolled with a roller weighing at least 34.2 Kg (75 lbs).
3. Self-adhesive membranes must be installed only when the ambient air temperature meets or exceeds the temperature permitted by the manufacturer.

9.3.5.3 Hot Bitumen-adhered Membranes

1. All concrete decks to receive adhered membranes shall be primed.
2. Bitumen Temperatures
   1. The asphalt temperature must be at least 205°C (400°F) in order to fuse with the membrane.
   2. Asphalt should be mopped no more than 1 m (3') ahead of the roll.
3. Install membranes with Type 3 or 4 oxidized asphalt or Type 3 or 4 SEBS modified asphalt.

9.3.6 Liquid Membranes

Where it is desirable for the field membrane to resist the damaging effects of grease, oils or other contaminants, a reinforced liquid ‘cap membrane’ may be specified and installed over a suitable base membrane. The following standards pertain to the application of these materials in the field and around penetrations:

1. Use only liquid flashing membranes that are compatible with the primary base membrane.
2. Ensure proper preparation of the base membrane, which must be clean, dry, free of contaminants and suitable to the liquid membrane manufacturer. Preparation must follow the procedures published by the liquid membrane manufacturer.
3. Liquid membranes must be applied with clean, straight, plumb edges. Therefore, mask the boundaries of areas to which liquid membrane will be applied, ensuring adequate coverage on all surfaces.
4. For all applications,
   1. apply a base layer of catalyzed liquid membrane resin within the area masked for coverage
   2. reinforce the base coating with the manufacturer’s fleece, and cut it to size so that the fleece is set in from the masked area no more than 3 mm (1/8”)
   3. ensure the fleece is fully saturated with liquid, following the published instructions from the manufacturer
   4. coat the fleece with a second application of catalyzed liquid membrane resin, covering the masked area
   5. coat the second application with a wearing coat, as specified by the manufacturer
5. When a granule surface or textured finish is specified, the granules or texturing material must be broadcast into a third coat.
6. When applied to the roof field around a penetration, the same liquid membrane must extend up the adjacent vertical surfaces by at least 200 mm (8”). See also 11.3.3.3.

Application rates and guidelines issued by the manufacturer of the liquid flashing product must be followed, unless superseded by these Standards.

9.3.7 Membrane Walkways and Warning Zones

See also 14 The ROOF as a PLATFORM for design, material and installation requirements when using elevated pavers or other walkway materials.

1. When pavers are used as the walkway material they must be
   1. spaced no closer than 3mm (1/8″)
   2. supported by non-abrasive pads or proprietary pedestals providing a minimum of 12.7 mm (1/2″) of vertical separation layer for airflow and leveling.
2. When an additional membrane ply is installed over the finished roof membrane, to serve as a ‘sacrificial’ walking surface, the third ply is not considered part of the roof assembly and therefore is excluded from coverage under the RoofStar Guarantee.
3. When warning zones are specified as part of the primary roof membrane,
   1. the membrane
      1. may be part of the primary roof membrane, in a contrasting colour.
      2. must be oriented parallel to the primary field runs.
   2. staggered end laps must be maintained but must be located under the contrasting membrane in order to create a clean edge.

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10 PERIMETERS and WALLS

10.1 General

10.1.1 Definitions

Refer to the Glossary for further definitions of key terms used in this Manual.

Tall Parapet means a parapet taller than 600 mm (24”).

Standard Door means a door located at least 200 mm (8”) above the finished roof surface.

Low Door means a door with a rough opening less than 200 mm (8”) above the finished roof surface, but no less than 100 mm (4”) above the roof membrane.

10.1.2 Design

1. When a low-slope roof transitions from the horizontal plane to a sloped or vertical plane, the transition must be flashed with separate base and cap membrane plies.
2. Base and cap membrane flashing plies should not be terminated at the same height; rather, the cap should lap over the base, onto the vertical substrate, unless fire-sensitive applications apply (see 10.3.3 Alternative Approaches to Membrane Flashing).
3. Only base membranes conforming to the Material requirements outlined below may be installed on the top of a parapet wall.
4. Regardless of parapet height, base membrane flashing must be carried up the inside face of the parapet walls no less than 200 mm (8”) above the finished roof surface.
5. Subject to the specifications of the roof design, parapets 600 mm (24”) or less in height may be fully covered with a base membrane flashing. When this is done, the base membrane flashing must not be left exposed to UV radiation, but must be covered with
   1. a granule-coated cap membrane flashing (see requirements below).
   2. metal flashing.
   3. cladding or other wall finishes.
6. When walls, or tall parapets, are specified as part of the roofing work, the remaining surface area of the wall or parapet above the termination of the base membrane flashing must be covered with a water-resistive membrane that has properties consistent with the design and characteristics of the wall assembly. This may be the same membrane used for base flashing, or it may be a self-adhering membrane having a minimum thickness of 1 mm (.040”), provided it
   1. is applied with the methodology prescribed by the manufacturer.
   2. positively overlaps the base or cap flashing membrane by at least 50 mm (2”).
   3. covers the remainder of the wall or tall parapet.
   4. is protected from UV radiation with a metal flashing, cladding or another wall covering.
   5. does not extend to cover the top surface of a parapet.
7. Tall parapets should be designed with consideration given to ventilation.
8. When metal flashing or cladding is installed over a self-adhering base membrane, the membrane must have a high softening point and a minimum flow temperature of 87.7°C (190°F) ASTM D5147 high temperature stability.
9. Cap membrane flashing must be carried up the vertical surface, above the finished roof surface, at least 200 mm (8”), but may be carried up the full height of the parapet.
10. Parapets are not required at the edge of a roof, but when they are specified and constructed they must be no less than 100 mm (4") in height, measured from the finished roof surface to the inside top edge of the parapet, in order to facilitate proper metal cap flashing securement. See also 13.3.4 Cap, Counter and Base Flashings.
11. Mechanical fasteners used to secure a metal flashing or wall finish must be installed at least 89 mm (3 ½”) above the finished roof surface.
12. When a wall or parapet is faced with multi-wythe masonry or composite panels, and the membrane flashing must be installed over the face of the wall or parapet, the through-wall flashing that separates wythes or courses of panels must be
    1. supplied and installed by others.
    2. situated at the next course above the terminated edge of the membrane flashing and any metal roof flashings.
       
       

       Refer to current seismic codes for suitability.

       In the alternative to the above, the entire inside face of a parapet wall must be completely flashed or cladded.

13. SBS-modified bitumen membranes are manufactured to transition from horizontal to vertical planes, without the assistance of a cant. Therefore, cant edges are not required.
14. Cant edges on existing roofs may be left in place, at the discretion of the Design Authority.
15. Diverter flashings must be installed where lower edge of the roof terminates at a wall or at a flat edge where water may freely drain off the roof surface. The diverter is used to prevent the intrusion of water behind wall finishes, or off the roof at an undesirable location.
16. When a low-slope roof assembly transitions
    1. to a lower steep-slope roof assembly, the base membrane flashing must be lapped onto the steep-sloped underlayment by no less than 50 mm (2").
    2. up a steep-slope roof assembly, the base membrane flashing must extend up the slope not less than 300 mm (12"), measured vertically from the horizontal plane.
    3. with a wall, membrane flashing must positively lap wall membranes and finishes by at least 75 mm (3").

10.2 Materials

1. Membranes used to flash (strip) walls, parapets or other edges shall be reinforced with polyester or a composite scrim, but in any event must conform to the membrane requirements found in 9.2.1 Composition, Thickness and Selection.
2. Some membranes may be susceptible to damage from bird droppings, pet urine, chemical contamination (oils, solvents or any discharge from a mechanical unit). The Design Authority is strongly urged to consider these issues in light of the overall Project design, consult with the membrane manufacturer for guidance, and provide adequate membrane protection when it is necessary. See also 14 THE ROOF as a PLATFORM.
3. Liquid membranes used as a membrane flashing, or to terminate sheet membrane flashing, must be a fleece-reinforced 2-part liquid flashing system.
4. Metal flashings incorporated into roof perimeters and walls must conform to the materials and fabrication standards found in 13.2 Materials.
5. When cant edges are specified,
   1. wood cants must be fabricated from any wood species other than hemlock.
   2. fibre cants must be manufactured from non-combustible materials.

10.3 Application

10.3.1 General

1. When membrane flashing requires the use of a primer applied to a substrate, all installed membranes must be protected from splashed or dripped primer, as the primer may damage the membranes and cause leaks. This standard also applies to work by other trades, who may use primers for self-adhering membranes typically installed on walls or around doors, windows or other wall penetrations.
2. All membrane flashing plies must be
   1. installed to a substrate that is listed under Accepted Materials, and
   2. fully bonded to that underlying substrate.
3. Membrane flashing plies must be installed according to the manufacturer's published instructions, but in any event must be
   1. installed from the low point of the roof (for positive laps toward the drain).
   2. offset the field membrane runs by at least 300 mm (12").
   3. reinforced at all inside and outside corners with membrane gussets, measuring at least 100 mm x 150 mm (4” x 6”), excluding the tapered ends.
   4. hand rolled with a membrane manufacturer’s accepted roller.
4. The base and cap membranes must be carried up a vertical face at least 200 mm (8”) but must not be terminated at the same height.
5. Base membrane flashing plies must
   1. Extend onto the field by at least 100 mm (4"), or extend at least 100 mm (4") past perimeter mechanical fastener plates installed on the field.
   2. wrap over the top of the parapet or roof edge and down the outside face by at least 50 mm (2”).
   3. positively lap any wall membranes or finishes on the outside face of the building.
   4. be fully bonded at the seams, along all exposed edges.
   5. be finished and “buttered”, with a torch or hot-air welder, before the end of the working day.
6. Cap membrane flashing plies must
   1. extend onto the field at least 150 mm (6"), or at least 50 mm (2”) past the edge of the base membrane flashing.
   2. be fully bonded at the seams, along all exposed edges.
   3. exhibit continuous visible bitumen bleed-out along seam edges, to a maximum of 6 mm (1/4”), accomplished with a torch or hot-air welder.
7. All membrane flashing (stripping) must extend vertically on a perimeter surface at least 200 mm (8") above the finished roof surface, to permit a proper watertight seal. Low parapets, metal fascia edge flashings (see also 10.3.7 Door Openings), and low door sill or window details, are exempt from this requirement.
8. All membrane flashing terminating on any vertical surface must be secured to the vertical substrate by the contractor. Exposed membrane edges must also be protected from UV radiation. This must be accomplished using
   1. a proprietary termination bar attached to the vertical surface with compatible fasteners and caulked with a sealant.
   2. mechanical fasteners with large heads no less than 9 mm (3/8") diameter, and covered with a metal counter-flashing, reglet flashing or wall membrane and finish.
   3. a 2-part reinforced liquid flashing membrane (see 11.3.3.3 Liquid Membrane Flashings).
9. All fasteners must be installed no more than 300 mm (12”) O.C. When the standard fastener spacing cannot be achieved, mechanical fasteners shall be spaced to suit/match vertical structural supports, but in any event shall be placed no more than 600 mm (24”) O.C.
10. Membrane flashing terminating under a reglet must be sealed to the wall with a compatible mastic.
11. When a low-slope roof assembly transitions
    1. to a lower steep-slope roof assembly, the base membrane flashing must be lapped onto the steep-sloped underlayment by no less than 50 mm (2").
    2. up a steep-slope roof assembly, the base membrane flashing must extend up the slope not less than 300 mm (12"), measured vertically from the horizontal plane.
    3. with a wall, wall membranes and finishes must positively lap membrane flashing by at least 75 mm (3").
12. Parapets that intersect a higher wall must be sealed with a membrane saddle formed to protect the inside and outside corners (see D1.7.2-4 Parapets & Copings (Parapet - Wall Transition)).

10.3.2 Sequencing

1. Projects must follow proper sequencing. This means that materials must be installed so that they interface with other materials, systems or assemblies, including those installed by other trades, in “shingle fashion” by positively overlapping them below or above. Occasionally, the coordination with other trades requires some adaptation to this standard. When that is the case, any variance to proper detail sequencing must be approved by the Design Authority in writing.

10.3.3 Alternate Membrane Flashing Approaches

1. When field membranes or flashing plies are heat-welded, or if required by construction sequencing, site personnel must assess the best approach.
2. The Project design and installation may incorporate one or more of the following alternatives to conventional membrane flashing methods:

10.3.3.1 Pre-flashing Approach

1. Before installing the base field membrane, self-adhering or adhesive-applied base membrane flashing (“pre-flashing”) must be applied to both vertical surfaces and to a suitable substrate on the roof field.
2. Base membrane flashings must be finished and “buttered” at the joints using a hot-air welder.
3. Base membrane flashing plies must extend
   1. no less than 100 mm (4”) onto the roof field.
   2. no less than 200 mm (8”) on walls or tall parapets, or to fully cover parapets up to 600 mm (24”) in height.
4. The ends of field membrane runs, applied after base membrane flashing, must continue up the face of the wall or parapet at least 100 mm (4”).
5. Additional base membrane flashing must be installed along the lengths of base field membranes, applied to the vertical surface and onto the roof field at least 100 mm (4”).
6. Cap field and flashing membranes must be installed in keeping with General Application standards.
7. All other applicable Standards in this Manual apply.

10.3.3.2 Picture-frame Approach

1. Before installing the base field membrane, “picture-frame” the field area adjacent to sensitive locations with self-adhering or adhesive-applied membranes, to a width of at least 1.5 m (58 ½”), beginning with a half-width sheet along the roof edge.
2. Perimeters must be flashed with self-adhering or adhesive-applied membrane base flashing. Base membrane flashing plies must extend
   1. no less than 100 mm (4”) onto the roof field.
   2. no less than 200 mm (8”) on walls or tall parapets, or to fully cover parapets up to 600 mm (24”) in height.
3. Field base membrane must be installed and tied into the “picture frame” following the General Application standards for side and end laps (refer to 9.3.1 General).
4. Standard application of cap field membranes must be carried no closer than 1 m (39”) of the wall or parapet.
5. Self-adhering or adhesive-applied cap membranes must be applied to complete the field. Side and end laps must be heat-sealed with a hot-air welder.
6. Self-adhered or adhesive-applied cap membrane flashing must be applied to parapets or walls, in keeping with General Application standards for membrane flashing. Side and end laps must be heat-sealed with a hot-air welder.
7. All other applicable Standards in this Manual apply.

10.3.4 Membranes

10.3.4.1 Torch-applied

1. The application of an open flame to combustible surfaces is NOT permitted. All combustible surfaces, including (without limitation) decks, walls, blocking or cants MUST be protected from open flame by an acceptable separation or overlay material.
2. When the base membrane flashing is torch-applied, all overlay board joints and wall transitions must be sealed with the primary membrane manufacturer’s approved self-adhered membrane or tapes. Alternatively, refer above to 10.3.3 Alternative Approaches to Membrane Flashing.

10.3.4.2 Self-adhered

1. Self-adhered membranes must be installed on a clean, uncontaminated surface. Dirty or contaminated surfaces must be covered with
   1. plywood sheathing with a minimum nominal thickness of 9.5 mm (3/8").
   2. a wall overlay.

10.3.4.3 Adhesive and Hot-applied

1. Hot-applied membrane flashing must be installed according to the membrane manufacturers’ installation specifications, using conventional Type 3 or 4 oxidized asphalt or Type 3 or 4 SEBS modified asphalt. The asphalt temperature must conform to the membrane manufacturer's minimum application temperature; a minimum application temperature of 205°C (400°F) is required.
2. When hot asphalt is used to adhere membrane flashing (stripping), metal base flashings are required on all vertical surfaces, walls, curbs, etc. Refer to 13.3.4 Cap, Counter and Base Flashings.

10.3.5 Perimeters and Walls

10.3.5.1 Parapets

1. Parapets up to and including a height of 600 mm (24”) must be fully covered with a base membrane flashing.
2. Base membrane flashings installed on a parapet must extend onto the outside vertical face of the parapet by at least 50 mm (2").
3. Base membrane flashing may not be left exposed to UV radiation any longer than the manufacturer’s recommendations, but must be covered with
   1. a granule-coated cap membrane flashing (see requirements below).
   2. metal flashing.
   3. cladding or other wall finishes.
4. When the walls, or tall parapets, are specified as part of the roofing work, base membranes must be terminated at a height above the finished roof surface no less than 300 mm (12”). The remainder of the wall or parapet surface must be covered with a waterproofing membrane. If specified, use the same membrane employed for base flashing. In the an alternative alternate self-adhering membrane is specified, it must be at least 1 mm (.040”) thick and must
   1. be installed according to the methodology prescribed by the manufacturer.
   2. positively overlaps the base or cap flashing membrane by at least 50 mm (2”).
   3. cover the remainder of the wall or tall parapet.
   4. be protected from UV radiation with a metal flashing, cladding or another wall covering.
   5. not extend to cover the top surface of a parapet.
5. Where a metal coping is specified as the only metal flashing, the cap membrane flashing must be carried up at least as high as the inside face of the parapet. Optionally, the cap membrane flashing may be carried across the top of the parapet to the outside edge.

10.3.5.2 Metal Edge Terminations

Membrane roof assemblies may be terminated at the roof edge, flush with the roof surface, using a metal edge flashing. Metal edge flashings must be installed to the following standards:

1. Insulated low-slope roof assemblies terminating on the horizontal plane with a metal edge flashing must abut blocking at the roof edge.
2. The base field membrane must extend onto the outside face of the roof edge at least 50 mm (2").
3. Metal edge flashings must be
   1. installed over the base field membrane.
   2. embedded in a membrane-compatible mastic.
   3. fastened to the outside face of the roof edge with a continuous metal clip (see 13.3.2 Securement).
   4. fastened to the roof surface with mechanical fasteners spaced 200 mm (8”) O.C. in offsetting rows.
   5. joined to each other with lap joints measuring at least 100 mm (4”), and sealed with mastic.
   6. primed.
   7. sealed with a base membrane extending at least 100 mm (4") onto the metal flashing, and at least 100 mm (4”) onto the field membrane.
   8. finished with the field cap membrane
      1. extending to cover the base membrane.
      2. sealed along the exposed edge with an un-tooled bead of membrane-compatible mastic.
4. When a diverter flashing is required, it must be fabricated like a metal edge flashing, and must be secured and sealed to the primary membrane with membrane flashing (stripping). Follow the procedures outlined in 10.3.5.2.3.

10.3.5.3 Cant Edges

When specified, the following application standards apply to the installation of cant edges:

1. Membrane flashing plies must be installed in keeping with the requirements in 10.3.1 General, and must lap onto the roof field when measured from the base of the cant.

10.3.6 Expansion and Control Joints

See 2.4 Expansion Joints and 2.5 Control Joints above. Membrane application must conform to the general requirements outlined in 10.1 General.

1. Expansion joints constructed as a raised divider must have a sloped top surface and must extend in height above the finished roof surface no less than 200 mm (8"). The minimum height of the Expansion Joint may be reduced to 100 mm (4") if the primary roof membrane flashing is fully supported and sealed over the top.
2. Proprietary elastomeric expansion joint systems, manufactured with an EPDM-based core and flanges that can be fully bonded to the primary membrane, are acceptable for use in low-sloped membrane roof assemblies when the systems are located a minimum of 200mm (8") above the finished roof surface and are completely sheathed (covered) with sloped metal flashing. Such joints must be
   1. accepted for use in the RoofStar Guarantee Program.
   2. compatible with the roof membrane and acceptable to the membrane manufacturer.
   3. designed and manufactured to accommodate building movements of at least 500% elongation at -40°C (-40°F) across its length and at all vulcanized points.
   4. factory-fabricated by means of vulcanization.
   5. manufactured as one piece, complete with all joints, details and connections.
   6. bonded with the primary membrane in a manner acceptable to the manufacturers of both the expansion joint and the membrane to which it will be bonded.
3. Field splicing of proprietary elastomeric expansion joints is permitted only when made with a machine acceptable to the expansion joint manufacturer. All other field splices are not permitted.

10.3.7 Door Openings

1. Standard door openings must be flashed with membrane, reinforced with gussets at the sill corners, carried vertically on all surfaces of the door sill opening at least 100 mm (4”)
2. The RGC recommends against low door openings because of their propensity to leak. Nevertheless, when a low door opening is specified to comply with building codes, it must be waterproofed in keeping with the following standards:
   1. The opening at the curb must be waterproofed before the door frame and sill is installed, by one of the following accepted methods:
      1. Sheet membrane flashing
         1. reinforced with gussets at the sill corners.
         2. carried vertically on all surfaces of the door sill opening at least 100 mm (4”).
         3. terminated on a mechanically attached water-stop flashing sized to underneath the door sill and sealed to the opening with membrane flashing.
      2. A metal water stop flashing, fabricated with folded, welded or soldered corners and mechanically attached to inside of door sill opening. The pan must be sealed to the door curb and opening with membrane flashing.
      3. Reinforced liquid membrane flashing applied in keeping with the requirements for sheet membrane flashings above.
   2. The roof must be sloped away from the door opening.
   3. Overflow drains must be
      1. installed on the same roof area, and located at least 25 mm (1") below the door sill.
      2. capable of flow rates equivalent to or greater than those of the primary roof drains for the roof areas adjacent to the door opening (see also 11.3.2.5 Scuppers and Overflows).
   4. When the building interior transitions to a patio or occupied roof surface through a flush door opening, the walking surface of the patio or roof must protect the roof membrane from damage and provide a drainage space below the walking surface measuring at least 12.7 mm (1/2”). Alternatively, pea gravel installed on a drainage board may be used.
   5. Overhangs above the door are recommended wherever practical, to minimize water intrusion that occurs from wind-driven rain or from snow accumulation.

10.3.8 Liquid Membrane Flashing

Where sheet membranes terminate on walls, or where flashing with sheet membranes may not be practical or even possible, a reinforced liquid membrane flashing may be used. The following standards pertain to the application of these materials:

1. Use only liquid flashing membranes that are compatible with the primary membrane.
2. Ensure proper preparation of the substrate, which must be clean, dry and free of contaminants. Preparation must follow the published procedures published by the flashing manufacturer.
3. Liquid membranes must be applied with clean, straight, plumb edges. Therefore, mask the boundaries of areas to which liquid membrane will be applied, ensuring adequate coverage on all surfaces.
4. For all applications,
   1. prime the substrate above the sheet membrane flashing, as directed by the manufacturer of the 2-part liquid flashing system.
   2. apply a base layer of catalyzed liquid membrane resin within the area masked for coverage.
   3. reinforce the base coating with the manufacturer’s fleece, and cut it to size so that the fleece is set in from the masked area no more than 3 mm (1/8”).
   4. ensure the fleece is fully saturated with liquid, following the published instructions from the manufacturer.
   5. coat the fleece with a second application of catalyzed liquid membrane resin, covering the masked area.
5. When a granule surface or textured finish is specified, the granules or texturing material must be broadcast into a third coat.
6. On vertical membrane terminations, apply the liquid membrane to provide no less than 50 mm (2") coverage, both above and below the sheet membrane termination.
7. For use as a substitute for sheet membrane flashing, the reinforced liquid membrane flashing system must extend 200 mm (8”) both vertically and onto the field membrane.

Application rates and guidelines issued by the manufacturer of the liquid flashing product must be followed, unless superseded by these Standards.

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11 DRAINS and PENETRATIONS

11.1 General

This section pertains to the waterproofing of roof penetrations, curbs, sleepers, drains and any other "details", in order to qualify for a RoofStar Guarantee.

11.1.1 Definitions

Refer to the Glossary for further definitions of key terms used in this Manual.

Roof Drain means “A fitting or device that is installed in the roof to permit storm water to discharge into a leader.” (BCPC, Division A, Part 1).

Drain Leader means "a pipe that is installed to carry storm water from a roof to a storm building drain or sewer or other place of disposal” (BCPC, Division A, Part 1).

Primary Roof Drain means the primary means of draining water from the roof.

Secondary Roof Drain means an alternate drainage path in the event of large rain events or significant snow melt, typically situated at a higher elevation than a primary roof drain.

Scupper Drain means an open or closed roof drain that conveys water laterally from one roof area to another, or from the roof directly to the exterior of the building.

Overflow Drain means a secondary roof drain that serves as a safeguard when roof drains fail.

Flange-style Drain means a primary roof drain with a flat, broad flange fabricated from the same material as the bowl and leader, and encompassing the perimeter of the drain bowl or, in the case of flat drains, the drain leader. Flange-style drains are not cast but rather are manufactured from components that are hot-welded. Flange-style drains are typically secured to the roof with mechanical fasteners.

11.1.2 Design

1. With the exception of overflows and scupper drains, roof drains and penetration flashings must be located at least 200 mm (8”) away from any adjacent drain, penetration, upstand, edge or wall. The separation space is measured between openings, excluding the flange.

11.1.2.1 Drainage

1. The Design Authority is responsible for the design of roof drainage. The size (flow rate) of roof drains and overflows should be determined through the British Columbia Building Code and Plumbing Code, with attention given to both average and large rainfall events. For rainfall capacities, refer to the British Columbia Building Code, Div. B, Appendix C, Table C-2 which lists rainfall loads using specific reference locations throughout the province. The RCABC recommends that various disciplines, including but not limited to mechanical (plumbing) and structural engineers, coordinate calculations to ensure proper flow rates, head pressure and structural supports, in anticipation of significant, short-duration rain events. Consideration should be given to the following elements (without limitation):
   1. Roof slope – more slope theoretically increases drainage and lessens live loading from rainfall (see also 2.2 Roof Slope).
   2. Rainfall rates for primary and overflow drainage.
   3. Primary and overflow drain capacities.
   4. Hydraulic head (pressure).
2. Roofs may drain off a roof edge or by means of internal plumbing. Both are permissible under the RoofStar Guarantee Program.
3. When a roof is designed to drain off an edge, water may drain freely or be collected by means of an external or built-in gutter (12.2 Built-in Membrane Gutters) and drained onto a lower roof assembly. The membrane on the lower roof must be protected from abrasion with splash pads.
4. When roofs are designed to drain through internal plumbing, the following standards, guiding principles and recommendations apply.
   1. Drain sumps should be incorporated into a roof design whenever possible, to increase head pressure above primary roof drains. Drain sumps should be designed at least 1m x 1m (39” x 39”) in size. The depth of a sump is a function of insulation thickness (see 7.1.2.10). Sumps designed with sloped insulation are strongly recommended.
   2. Drain sump durability may be enhanced by specifying additional reinforcement around the perimeter, using a reinforced 2-part liquid membrane.
   3. New and existing buildings should incorporate overflows to handle large rain events. The primary function of an overflow is to keep a roof from collapsing when primary roof drains are plugged or cannot drain heavy rainfall. Where no overflows are specified, the building structure should be designed to carry the total load of water collected on the roof, in the event of the failure of roof drains (see British Columbia Building Code).
   4. When overflows are specified, they must be
      1. located
         1. no higher than 100 mm (4”) above drain elevations.
         2. where the discharge of storm water will be visible.
      2. designed with an opening sufficient in size to equal or exceed the rate of rainfall.
      3. designed as open-wall scuppers for parapets measuring 150 mm (6”) or less in height (see D1.7.8-5 Water & Drainage (Open Wall Scupper)).
      4. designed around the principles of a through-wall scupper, for parapets higher than 150 mm (6”) (see D1.7.32 Water & Drainage (Through-wall Scupper)).
   5. Overflows must incorporate a continuous flange surrounding the drain opening, measuring at least 100 mm (4”) in width, and may be manufactured from ferrous metals, subject to the Material standards for metal found in this Manual.
   6. Overflows are required for low doorway or low window details. In these applications, the overflow must be installed at least 1” lower than the lowest elevation of the door or window opening.
   7. A scupper drain may serve either as a primary roof drain or as a secondary drain.
5. If a flow restrictor is present in an existing cast drain leader, the restrictor should be reinstalled.
6. Drain extensions for cast-iron roof drains should be avoided, since the connection with the cast drain is not sealed; the result is a leak into the roof system.

11.1.2.2 Curbs and Penetrations

1. Roof openings must be enclosed and sealed
   1. with curbs.
   2. penetration flashings.
2. Each curb or penetration flashing must extend at least 200 mm (8”) above the finished surface of the roof assembly. Waterproofing of equipment installed on a curb is the responsibility of others.
3. Galvanized or welded flashings and vents
   1. are permitted on uninsulated or conventionally insulated assemblies, provided
      1. the base is coated (see 11.3.3.1.7.2).
      2. the footprint of the flashing does not exceed 0.126 m2 (196 in.2).
   2. are not permitted at the water plane in a Protected or Modified Protected Membrane Roof Assembly. Instead, the penetration must be enclosed by a curb measuring at least 200 mm (8") in height above the finished roof surface; the galvanized or welded flashing may then be installed and flashed in on top of the curb.
   3. larger than 0.126 m2 (196 in.2) must be enclosed or supported by a curb.
4. Seamless, spun aluminum or copper flashings for penetrations may be located at the water plane in any assembly type.
5. Reinforced liquid membrane flashing systems may be specified only where
   1. sheet membrane applications are not practicable (i.e. complex geometry).
   2. the top edge of membrane plies must be terminated on a vertical surface and other means of termination are not practicable or even possible.
6. Roof penetration flashings must be
   1. suitable for only one penetration.
   2. properly fitted to form a seal around the penetration.
7. Where a standard flashing is not tall enough to enclose and seal the penetration, the joint between the penetration and the flashing must be sealed with alternative methods.
8. Sleepers or equipment pads that are completely sealed (enveloped) must be at least 100 mm (4") in height above the finished roof surface. All penetrations through the top surface must be additionally sealed.
9. Housekeeping pads situated on top of the finished roof surface and supporting a combined load less than 90 kg (200 lbs) must be separated from the roof with a bond-breaking layer (i.e. XPS insulation) Housekeeping pads supporting larger loads must conform to the standards for sleepers or equipment pads.
10. When mechanical equipment that is ventilated on the roof extracts and discharges grease, chemicals or other contaminants that may adversely impact the roof membrane or other system components, the Design Authority should specify additional protection measures (for example, grease guards or a reinforced 2-part liquid membrane coating).
11. Guardrails should be designed for attachment on vertical surfaces only; attachment of guardrails to a horizontal surface is strongly discouraged.
12. Pourable sealant pockets should be used only as a last resort, when other flashing methods are impractical.

11.2 Materials

11.2.1 General

1. Membranes used to flash (strip in) drains and penetrations shall be reinforced with polyester or a composite scrim, but in any event must conform to the membrane requirements found in 9.2.1 Composition, Thickness and Selection.

11.2.2 Roof Drains and Scuppers

Roof drains are comprised mainly of two parts: a bowl or flange that is affixed to the roof deck with mechanical fasteners or a proprietary clamping mechanism; and an integral drain stem that connects the bowl or flange to the leader. Roof drains are sized according to the diameter of the drain stem. As stated above under Design, the appropriate size and number of roof drains for any given roof area is determined by the relevant building code in force (ref. BCPC, Division B – Part 2; 2.4.10.4 Hydraulic Loads from Roofs or Paved Surfaces).

Roof drains can be further classified as internal or external. Internal roof drains are connected to leaders located and connected to a storm building drain or sewer inside the exterior surface of a building. External roof drains drain storm water outside the exterior surface of a building. External roof drains may connect to leaders. Any requirements for leaders and connections to leaders may be found in the applicable municipal and provincial building and plumbing codes (ref. BCBC, 5.6.2.2 Accumulation and Disposal).

1. Cast-iron Roof Drains must be
   1. supplied with a sump receiver and under-deck clamp.
   2. installed by the trade supplying the roof drain.
2. Lead flashings, when specified, must be sized to extend past the drain bowl by at least 150 mm (6”), and must have a weight of at least 15 kg/m2 (3 lb/ft2).
3. Internal Flange type roof drains must be hot-welded at the joints between the bowl/flange and drain stem and shall be constructed of non-ferrous material:
   1. Copper drains for internal application shall be formed from a minimum weight of 24 oz. sheet copper.
   2. Aluminum drains for internal application shall be formed from a minimum of 12 gauge material.
4. External Flange type roof drains must be hot-welded at the joints between the bowl/flange and drain stem and shall be constructed of non-ferrous material:
   1. Copper drains for external application shall be formed from a minimum weight of 16 oz. sheet copper.
   2. Aluminum drains for external application shall be formed from a minimum of 20 gauge material.
5. Only mechanical compression type seals may be used to connect insert-type drains to internal drain leaders.
6. Scupper drains (open or closed) must be
   1. manufactured with welded seams and joints.
   2. fabricated from non-ferrous metals, subject to the Material Selection standards for metal found in this Manual.
   3. fabricated with a continuous flange surrounding the drain opening, measuring at least 100 mm (4”) in width.
   4. designed to extend past the outside face of the wall.
7. Closed (boxed) scupper drains must be
   1. fully enclosed on four sides, for through-wall applications.
   2. fitted with an overflow opening at the outside face
      1. equal in capacity to the main drain leader opening.
      2. at least 38 mm (1 ½”) lower than the top surface of the scupper drain.
   3. fabricated with a drip edge at the bottom outside edge of the drain to deflect overflow water away from the building.
8. Pipe-styled overflow drains must be welded at the flange.
9. All roof drains utilized in a roof assembly that includes gravel ballast or growing media (soil) must be supplied with the drain manufacturer's proprietary primary drain strainer and secondary stainless steel ballast guard. In the absence of a proprietary ballast guard, a custom-fabricated guard may be used provided it meets the following requirements:
   1. Fabricated from 20-gauge stainless steel.
   2. Incorporates 6 mm (1/4”) perforations.
   3. Equal to or greater in height than the top of the finished roof assembly.

11.2.3 Curbs and Penetration Flashings

1. All membrane-flashed roof flashings for cylindrical penetrations must be manufactured with materials and methods that meet or exceed the requirements set out in CSA B272, Prefabricated Self-Sealing Roof Vent Flashings. Testing by a qualified third party is required to verify compliance with this standard.
2. Notwithstanding the above, all penetration flashings must be
   1. watertight and seamless or, in the alternative, fabricated with fully hot-welded joints.
   2. at least 8" in height, from the flange to the opening or top of the flashing.
   3. fabricated with a hot-welded or seamless flange at least 100 mm (4") wide, around the bottom of the flashing.
   4. fabricated with a friction-fitted or mechanically attached settlement cap or lid (if so required).
3. All plumbing vent flashings shall be non-ferrous.
4. All BUR-type flashings must meet or exceed the CSA A93 Standard, and may not be made with material less than 26 Ga. galvanized steel conforming to the metal standards found in 13 METAL FLASHINGS of this Manual.
5. Multiple roof penetrations, including grouped pipes and or cables, may be sealed into the roof assembly with
   1. purpose-made flashings utilizing the manufacturer’s proprietary rubber based friction seals, mechanical clamps or gooseneck type design.
   2. roof curbs and metal hoods.
6. Penetration flashings should be selected for their ability to inhibit the intrusion of vermin and insects into the roof assembly and building interior.

11.3 Application

11.3.1 General

With the exception of a few additions, the following may also be found in 11.1.2 Design:

1. When installing heat-welded membranes, or where construction sequencing requires it, alternatives to conventional membrane flashing should be considered. Refer to 11.3.3.2.
2. All membrane flashing must be hand rolled with a membrane manufacturer’s accepted roller.
3. All inside and outside corners of membrane-flashed penetrations and drainage sumps must be reinforced with membrane gussets, measuring at least 100 mm x 150 mm (4” x 6”), excluding the tapered ends.
4. Reinforced liquid membrane flashing systems may be specified only where
   1. sheet membrane applications are not practicable (i.e. complex geometry).
   2. the top edge of membrane plies must be terminated on a vertical surface and other means of termination are not practicable or even possible.

11.3.2 Roof Drains

11.3.2.1 General

1. Roof drains and cap membrane seams must be offset from each other at least 300 mm (12”), measured from the edge of the drain.
2. All insert-type drains shall be connected to internal leaders using only mechanical compression type seals. “O”- rings, mastics and caulking are not acceptable methods for sealing these types of drains to leaders.
3. When a 2-part liquid membrane flashing is specified for reinforcement of drain sumps, the liquid membrane flashing must continuously cover the sides of the sump, overlapping both the sump bottom and the roof field by at least 100 mm (4”).

11.3.2.2 Cast-iron Roof Drains

1. When cast-iron roof drains are used, a sump receiver and under-deck clamp must be provided and installed by the trade supplying the roof drain.
2. All cast-iron roof drains must be flashed in accordance with the membrane manufacturer's published instructions, or to the following standards, whichever are greater:
   1. Roof drain and clamping rings must be new or clean and unbroken.
   2. All roof assembly components, including tapered insulation, must be cut to fit closely around the drain bowl and leader.
   3. Ensure the continuity of air and vapour control layers, where specified.
   4. Ensure the field base membrane neatly fits around the outside edge of the cast drain flange.
3. Drain extensions for cast-iron roof drains should be avoided.
4. Notwithstanding the above, if a flow restrictor is present in an existing cast drain leader, the restrictor should be reinstalled.
5. Cast-iron drains installed with lead flashing:
   1. The base field membrane must be prepared to receive a coat of mastic. Follow the membrane manufacturer’s published instructions.
   2. A membrane-compatible mastic must be applied to the field membrane, and to the drain flange.
   3. The lead flashing must be centred over the drain body.
   4. The lead flashing must extend inside drain bowl at least 25 mm (1"). Ensure the lead is moulded to conform to the contours of the drain bowl.
   5. A reinforcement membrane patch of modified bituminous base sheet material 3 mm or more in thickness must be applied over the lead flashing and onto the field base membrane, ensuring a full bond between the two. The patch must be at least 1m x 1m (39” x 39”) and extend at least 150 mm (6”) past the outside edge of the lead flashing. Continuous visible bleed-out of bitumen around all edges of the patch should be achieved.
   6. The cap field membrane must be installed according to the General standards for field membranes (See 9.1). The membrane must extend past the inside edge of the drain bowl. Refer to 9 FIELD MEMBRANE in this Manual.
   7. The clamping ring must be seated and secured, ensuring it is not broken.
   8. The drain screen must be securely installed.
6. Cast-iron drains installed with membrane flashing:
   1. The base field membrane must be prepared to receive a reinforcement membrane patch. Follow the membrane manufacturer’s published instructions.
   2. The drain flange must be primed with the membrane manufacturer’s accepted primer.
   3. A reinforcement membrane patch of modified bituminous base sheet material 3 mm or more in thickness must be applied over the drain flange and onto the roof field. The patch must be at least 1m x 1m (39” x 39”) and extend at least 150 mm (6”) past the outside edge of the drain body. Continuous visible bleed-out of bitumen around all edges of the patch should be achieved.
   4. The membrane patch must be trimmed to the inside edge of the drain bowl.
   5. The cap field membrane must be installed according to the General standards for field membranes (See 9.1). The membrane must extend past the inside edge of the drain bowl. Refer to 9 FIELD MEMBRANE in this Manual.
   6. The clamping ring must be seated and secured, ensuring it is not broken.
   7. The drain screen must be securely installed.

11.3.2.3 Roof Drain Inserts (Replacement Roofing)

1. An external coupling is preferable to an internal mechanical compression seal, but when an internal compression seal is used out of necessity, the joint must be properly prepared to ensure the joined surfaces are clean, smooth and uniform. Honing out the cast pipe may be required.
2. When a cast-iron roof drain has deteriorated to the extent that it cannot receive a new roof membrane, installation must conform to the membrane manufacturer's published instructions, or to the following standards, whichever are greater:
   1. Remove any broken parts and debris.
   2. Install the drain insert utilizing a compression seal (see 11.3.2.1 General).
   3. Follow the requirements set out in 13.3.2.4 below.

11.3.2.4 Flange-type Roof Drains

1. Flange-type roof drains must be installed after the primary field base membrane has been fully installed.
2. The drain flange must be
   1. embedded in a continuous trowelled bed of mastic, applied to a prepared base membrane, and compatible with it.
   2. secured to the supporting deck structure or intermediate blocking. Mechanical fasteners used for this purpose must be self-drilling purpose-made screws having a deep-recessed head.
3. Drain flanges must be pre-primed before installation of the reinforcement membrane patch.
4. All flanged drains must be sealed to the field base membrane with a reinforcement membrane patch 3 mm or more in thickness, cut large enough to extend past the drain flange by at least 150 mm (6”), and sealed onto the flange and the field base membrane.
5. The membrane patch must be cut to terminate on the flange, and must be aligned with the base field membrane runs, or oriented 45-degrees to the base field membrane. Continuous visible bleed-out of bitumen along all edges of the patch should be achieved.
6. The cap membrane must overlap the base membrane patch, and terminate on the flange at the bowl.

11.3.2.5 Scuppers and Overflows

1. Open scupper drains may be constructed to match the height of the parapet or roof edge, and must be fully sealed with the field and perimeter membrane flashing.
2. When a through-wall scupper is specified, only fully enclosed scupper drains (enclosed on all sides and open only at the inflow and outflow ends) may be installed.
3. Overflow drains and roof scuppers that are installed through walls may be installed no closer than 200 mm (8") to
   1. a roof drain.
   2. any protrusion and its flashing.
4. Scuppers and overflows must be
   1. embedded in a layer of trowelled membrane-compatible mastic.
   2. primed on exposed flanges to receive membrane flashing.
   3. secured to the wall. Mechanical fasteners used for this purpose must be self-drilling purpose-made screws having a deep-recessed head.
   4. sealed to the roof assembly with membrane flashing plies that overlap the flanges at least 100 mm (4”), and extend onto the surrounding field or perimeter base membrane by at least 150 mm (6").
   5. flashed with cap membrane that overlaps the base and terminates on the flange.
5. Clamping collars must be securely installed as designed and where specified.

11.3.3 Curbs and Penetration Flashings

11.3.3.1 General

1. Penetration flashings must be located at least 200 mm (8”) away from any adjacent drain, penetration, upstand, edge or wall. The separation space is measured between openings, excluding the flange.
2. Roof openings must be enclosed and sealed with either of the following:
   1. curbs.
   2. penetration flashings.
      
      

   Curbs and penetration flashings must extend at least 200 mm (8”) above the finished surface of the roof assembly. Waterproofing of equipment installed on a curb is the responsibility of others.

3. Curbs:
   1. Membrane base flashing plies must lap onto the field base membrane by at least 100 mm (4"), or extend at least 50 mm (2") past perimeter mechanical fastener plates installed on the field, whichever is greater.
   2. Membrane cap flashing plies must lap onto the field cap membrane at least 50 mm (2") past the end of base membrane flashing plies.
4. Reinforced liquid membrane flashing systems may be employed only where
   1. sheet membrane applications are not practicable.
   2. the top edge of membrane plies must be terminated on a vertical surface and other means of termination are not practicable or even possible.
      
      

   See also 11.3.3.3 Liquid Flashing below.

5. Roof penetration flashings must
   1. be suitable for only one penetration.
   2. be properly fitted to form or permit a seal around the penetration.
   3. incorporate properly fitted settlement caps (where applicable).
   4. not be used with multiple pipe roof penetrations.
6. Where a standard flashing does not fit the penetration, the joint between the penetration and the flashing must be sealed using one of the following methods:
   1. Fit a site-formed non-bituminous flexible roof membrane storm collar and secure it to the flashing and penetration with stainless steel clamps.
   2. Apply a shrink-wrapped terminations secured with a stainless steel mechanical compression strap.
      
      

   Regardless of the method, sealant must be applied between the penetration and the collar or shrink-wrapping.

7. Galvanized, hot-welded flashings and vents may be installed on
   1. exposed or conventionally-placed membrane roofs, provided the vents
      1. measure no more than 350 mm x 350 mm (14" x 14") in size, equal to approximately 0.12 meter squared (196 sq. in.) (Larger vents must be installed on curbs).
      2. are not located in or near a valley and are well drained.
   2. slopes less than 1:50 (1/4” in 12”), provided the vents are coated on all surfaces to a point at least 100 mm (4") above the finished roof surface with a one or two-part liquid flashing acceptable to the membrane manufacturer.
   3. Protected or Modified Protected Membrane Roof Assemblies, provided the vents are mounted on membrane-flashed curbs.
8. Non-ferrous penetration flashings and vents may be located at the water plane in any assembly type. The use of lead jack flashings is not permitted for use with torch-applied membranes.
9. Flashings with flanges must be installed after the field base membrane and
   1. embedded in mastic.
   2. securely fastened to the supporting deck structure or intermediate blocking.
   3. sealed to the base field membrane with a target patch that is
      1. cut from a base membrane.
      2. a single piece or, when the penetration is large, two pieces that must be joined with laps at least 150 mm (6”) in width.
      3. applied to a primed flashing flange.
      4. extending
         1. to the base of the flashing upstand.
         2. onto the roof field, by at least 100 mm (4”).
      5. aligned with the base field membrane runs, or oriented 45-degrees to the base field membrane.
   4. covered with cap membrane that terminates on the water plane at the base of a penetration flashing, and is sealed along the cut edge of the membrane with a compatible mastic embedded with granules.
   5. should show continuous visible bleed-out of bitumen along all edges of the patch.
10. Sleepers or equipment pads that are completely sealed (enveloped) must be at least 100 mm (4") in height above the finished roof surface. All penetrations through the top surface must be additionally sealed.
11. Housekeeping pads situated on top of the finished roof surface and supporting a combined load less than 90 kg (200 lbs) must be separated from the roof with a bond-breaking layer (i.e. XPS insulation) Housekeeping pads supporting larger loads must conform to the standards for sleepers or equipment pads (11.1.2.2.7).
12. Pourable sealant pockets should be used only when a purpose-made flashing is not available or practicable.

11.3.3.2 Alternative Approaches to Membrane Flashing

1. When field membranes or flashing plies are heat-welded, or if required by construction sequencing, site personnel must assess the best approach.
2. The Project design and installation may incorporate one or more of the following alternatives to conventional membrane flashing methods:
   1. Curbs – see 10.3.3 Alternative Approaches to Membrane Flashing for two optional methods.
   2. Other Penetrations:
      1. Before installing the base field membrane, a self-adhering or adhesive-applied base membrane flashing (“pre-flashing”), measuring at least 1m x 1m (39” x 39”), must be installed and centered around the penetration, on a suitable roof field substrate. The pre-flashing membrane must be cut to fit tightly around the penetration flashing.
      2. The base field membrane, which may be torch-applied, must be installed and tied into the pre-flashing (target patch), overlapping the patch by at least 150 mm (6”).
      3. The application standards for flashings with flanges must then be followed (see 11.3.3.1 General).

11.3.3.3 Liquid Membrane Flashing

1. A reinforced liquid membrane flashing may be used where
   1. sheet membrane flashing may not be practical or even possible.
   2. the termination of sheet membrane flashing cannot be covered with metal flashing.
2. The following standards pertain to the application of these materials:
   1. Use only liquid membrane flashings that are compatible with the primary membrane.
   2. Ensure proper preparation of the substrate, which must be clean, dry and free of contaminants. Preparation must follow the published procedures published by the flashing manufacturer.
   3. Liquid membranes must be applied with clean, straight, plumb edges. Therefore, mask the boundaries of areas to which liquid membrane will be applied, ensuring adequate coverage on all surfaces.
   4. For all applications,
      1. prime the substrate above the sheet membrane flashing, as directed by the manufacturer of the 2-part liquid membrane flashing system.
      2. apply a base layer of catalyzed liquid membrane resin within the area masked for coverage.
      3. reinforce the base coating with the manufacturer’s fleece, and cut it to size so that the fleece is set in from the masked area no more than 3 mm (1/8”).
      4. ensure the fleece is fully saturated with the liquid membrane, following the published instructions from the manufacturer.
      5. coat the fleece with a second application of catalyzed liquid membrane resin, covering the masked area.
   5. On vertical membrane terminations, apply the liquid membrane to provide no less than 50 mm (2") coverage, both above and below the sheet membrane termination.
   6. For use as a substitute for sheet membrane flashing, the reinforced liquid membrane flashing system must extend 200 mm (8”) both vertically and onto the field membrane.
   7. Application rates and guidelines issued by the manufacturer of the liquid membrane flashing product must be followed, unless superseded by these Standards.

11.3.3.4 Sealant Pockets

1. Sealing penetration flashings with sheet membranes or reinforced liquid membrane flashing should be considered impractical before pourable sealant pockets are used.
2. When pourable sealant pockets are considered the last resort to seal a penetration,
   1. the penetration surfaces must be properly prepared following the sealant manufacturer’s instructions.
   2. only the membrane manufacturer’s approved proprietary UV-stable urethane-based structural sealants may be used to fill sealant pockets.
   3. sealant pockets must be sealed to the roof membrane.
   4. a site-formed non-bituminous flexible roof membrane storm collar must be fitted and secure it to the penetration with stainless steel clamps.

11.3.4 Guardrails

1. Guardrails should be installed only on vertical surfaces; attachment of guardrails to a horizontal surface is strongly discouraged.
2. Where guardrails are fastened through the top of copings, the base of the guardrail shall be flashed with a compatible reinforced membrane flashing material, applied according to the primary membrane flashing manufacturer’s specifications.
3. Guardrails shall not direct water into a roof system by means of weep holes or the method of fastening, and mounts and flashings shall be installed at least 87.7 mm (3 ½”) above the roof surface.

For reference, see Construction Detail D1.7.36 Miscellaneous Penetrations (Guardrails).

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12 PROTECTED MEMBRANES and OTHER DETAILS

12.1 Protected and Modified Protected Membrane Roof Assemblies

This section pertains to the design and installation of roofs that are Protected or Modified Protected Membrane Assemblies, where gravel ballast or pavers are used solely to secure the assembly materials against wind uplift and floatation in water. For roofs designed with accessible coverings, refer to 14 THE ROOF as a PLATFORM: Coverings, Living Spaces and Structures.

12.1.1 Design

1. When a roof is designed as a Protected Membrane Roof Assembly (PMRA), or as a Modified PMRA, it must be secured in keeping with the design standards and ballast weight requirements in 3 SECURING the ROOF ASSEMBLY. In addition, the roof must be designed to incorporate
   1. gravel guards around drains
   2. a drainage layer beneath XPS insulation.
   3. filter fabric installed over XPS insulation, in order to
      1. contain the insulation and thereby prevent ‘insulation stacking’ (displacement) when insulation boards become buoyant in water.
      2. prevent fines from settling at the membrane level and filling the voids between insulation board joints.
2. Where membranes installed on vertical surfaces may be damaged from foot traffic or shifting coverings, they must be protected as, for example, with base metal flashings.
3. Every PMRA or MPMRA designed with gravel ballast must conform to the securement requirements set out in 3.3.2 Ballasted Roof Assemblies and specify ballast conforming to the minimum requirements shown in the table below.

Table 12.1 RGC Ballast Guide

XPS Insulation Thickness	Stone Ballast Required Weight	Ballast Depth (approximate)
Up to 50 mm (2")	60 Kg/M2 (12 lb./sf)	40 mm (1 ¾")
75 mm (3")	8r Kg/M2 (17 lb./sf)	60 mm (2 ¼")
100 mm (4")	108 Kg/M2 (22 lb./sf)	75 mm (3")
125 mm (5")	132 Kg/M2 (27 lb./sf)	90 mm (3 ½")
150 mm (6")	156 Kg/M2 (32 lb./sf)	105 mm (4 ¼")
175 mm (7")	180 Kg/M2 (37 lb./sf)	125 mm (5")
200 mm (8")	204 Kg/M2 (42 lb./sf)	140 mm (5 ½")

12.1.2 Materials

See also 3.2.2 Gravel Ballast in 3 SECURING the ROOF ASSEMBLY.

1. Membranes must conform to the material requirements set out in 9.2.1 Composition, Thickness and Selection.
2. Insulation must be Type IV XPS, and must be supplied by the roofing contractor. Refer to 7.2 Materials.
3. Drainage mats and filter fabrics must conform to the Standards set out for overburdens in 14.2.3.
4. Gravel ballast used to secure a Protected Membrane Roof (or MPM Roof) assembly must be clean, washed, round or crushed stone, falling within the following gradations:
   1. 35 mm (1 ½") - 100 % Passing
   2. 25 mm (1") 70 - 100 % Passing
   3. 20 mm (¾") 5 - 20 % Passing
   4. 12.7 mm (½") 0 - 6 % Passing
   5. 5 mm (3/16") 0 - 2 % Passing

Any variance to the above must be accepted by the owner or the owner's representative and be confirmed in writing.

12.1.3 Application

12.1.3.1 General

1. All components of a Protected or Modified Membrane Roof Assembly, including the gravel or paver ballast, must be supplied and installed by the roofing contractor. Where a Vegetated System is used as ballast, the VRS may be installed by others, but the work must be coordinated with the roofing contractor, and the VRS installed immediately upon completion of the roofing contractor’s work, to ensure the roof system is held in place. See also 12.1.3.5 and 14.1.2.2.

12.1.3.2 Membranes

1. Membranes, membrane flashing and insulation must be installed in keeping with the Standards found elsewhere in this Manual.
2. No UV-sensitive membrane may be left exposed to UV radiation and must be fully protected by a granulated cap membrane, metal flashing or overburden.
3. The second ply in a PMRA may be a base membrane that is acceptable to the membrane manufacturer for that application, and must meet the membrane requirements in 9.2.1 for puncture resistance and thickness.
4. All membrane flashing must be carried up the vertical surface at least 200mm (8”) higher than the top of the ballast.
5. Before any roof covering, structure or equipment is installed, roof membranes must be
   1. inspected.
   2. scanned for leaks, when an integrity scan is specified.
   3. free of deficiencies.

12.1.3.3 Insulation

1. Insulation must be installed by the roofing contractor.

12.1.3.4 Drainage and Penetrations

1. A drainage mat must be installed below the XPS insulation. A second drainage layer may be installed above the insulation but is at the discretion of the Design Authority.
2. A filter fabric must be installed above the insulation and drainage layer.
3. Specialized proprietary drainage products must be acceptable to the membrane manufacturer.
4. Ballast guards must be installed around all roof drains. See 11.2.2 Roof Drains & Scuppers.
5. For drains and penetrations, refer to the Standards in 11 DRAINS and PENETRATIONS.

12.1.3.5 Filter Fabric

1. Fabric filter mats must be
   1. installed loose-laid (un-bonded) over the insulation and below any type of ballast or roof covering.
   2. overlapped at all edges a minimum of 300mm (12").
   3. at least 2.5 m x 2.5 m (8’ x 8’) in size.
   4. slit to fit over roof penetrations, and cut out around roof drains and other openings.
2. Filter fabric must extend up perimeter edges and curbs, and placed loose (unattached) under metal counter flashings or wall finishes. See also 13.3.4.3 concerning metal flashings.

12.1.3.6 Gravel and Paver Ballast

1. Gravel or pavers used as ballast on a PMRA constitute part of the roof assembly and therefore each kind of ballast must
   1. conform to the minimum requirements set out in 3 SECURING the ROOF ASSEMBLY.
   2. be evenly distributed or installed over the insulation, drainage layer and filter fabric assembly.
   3. be installed by the roofing contractor, not by another trade.

12.2 Built-in Membrane Gutters

12.2.1 Design

1. When a built in membrane gutter adjoins a RoofStar-guaranteed sloped roof, the gutter waterproofing must be constructed by the roofing Contractor to be included by the RoofStar Guarantee. Built-in membrane gutters that drain a roof not covered by a RoofStar Guarantee are not eligible for a RoofStar Guarantee.
2. Insulated low-slope roof assemblies that drain into a built-in gutter must abut solid blocking at the gutter edge that provides
   1. a stop for the insulation assembly.
   2. a solid substrate for the securement of flashings and membranes.
3. The Design Authority is responsible to design the gutter for its anticipated capacity, with consideration given to
   1. rainfall and snow load calculations for the building location.
   2. drain type, size and flow rate.
   3. size and placement of the overflow drain
      
      

   For rainfall and snow load capacities, refer to the British Columbia Building Code, Div. B, Appendix C, Table C-2 which lists various types of loads, including rain and snow loads, for specific reference locations throughout the province.

4. Only fully-adhered membranes or acceptable metal gutter liners may be used in built-in gutters.
5. When an SBS-modified membrane roof assembly transitions to a steep sloped roof with a built-in gutter, the gutter membrane must be carried up the slope (when measured vertically from the maximum water level)
   1. at least 150 mm (6”).
   2. at least 300 mm (12”) in regions with typical heavy snow.
6. Gutters shall be designed with a minimum width of 300 mm (12”) and a depth not exceeding the gutter’s width. At least 100 mm (4") clearance on the horizontal plane is required between any gutter wall and the
   1. the edge of the drain bowl for spun drains.
   2. the edge of the drain leader for flat spun or welded drains.
      

      Cast drains must be installed according to the requirements set out in 11.3.2 Roof Drains.

7. An overflow drain must be located at least
   1. 100 mm (4”) above the primary gutter drain.
   2. 25 mm (1”) below any mechanical fasteners used to secure the adjoining roof assembly.
8. For transitions between the built-in gutter and steep roof assemblies, refer to Section 12 in any of the Steep Slope Roofs sections.

12.2.2 Materials

NOTE: These material standards are applicable to membrane gutters for all low-slope membrane systems; hence, references to various membrane types.

1. Only EPDM, PVC, TPO, 2-ply modified bituminous membranes or reinforced PMMA are acceptable for this application:
   1. Single-ply non-bituminous membrane thickness must be no less than 60 mils (1.524 mm).
   2. 2-ply bituminous membranes must meet the minimum thickness requirements in 9.2.1 Composition, Thickness and Selection.
   3. Reinforced PMMA liquid membrane systems approved for field use, applied on an accepted SBS-modified base membrane.
2. A metal gutter liner may be fabricated from
   1. copper sheet material, incorporating soldered seams.
   2. stainless steel, incorporating welded seams.

See 13.2.1 Sheet Metal Grade and Gauge for gauge requirements. See also Application below.

12.2.3 Application

1. All gutter membranes must be installed according to the membrane manufacturer’s published instructions.
2. Gutter membranes must be
   1. installed perpendicular to the gutter length.
   2. carried up an adjoining steep slope (measured vertically from the maximum water level)
      1. at least 150 mm (6”).
      2. at least 300 mm (12”) in regions with typical heavy snow.
   3. lapped under and sealed to the adjoining membranes at least 150 mm (6”).
   4. installed in keeping with Application requirements in this Manual.
3. Gutter membranes must be mechanically secured at their terminations, both on the outside of the gutter edge and on the field. Fasteners securing the membrane on the field must be placed at least 150 mm (6”) above the maximum water level. Securement fastener spacing shall be no more than 300 mm (12”) O.C.
4. Gutter drains and overflows must be installed in keeping with the Design requirements outlined in Design above. Drain flanges that are bent to accommodate the side walls of the gutter must be mechanically fastened to the gutter wall before membrane application. Refer to the RoofStar Guarantee Standards for roof drains in any of the low-slope membrane roof assembly Guarantee Standards.
5. A metal gutter liner
   1. fabricated from copper sheet material must incorporate soldered seams.
   2. fabricated from stainless steel must incorporate welded seams.
   3. must be installed
      1. over an adhered single ply membrane no less than 2.3 mm (bituminous membranes) or 60 mils (non-bituminous membranes).
      2. with a slip sheet between the membrane and the metal liner to prevent damage to the membrane caused by the liner at its joints.
6. When an adjoining steep-slope roof assembly is insulated (typically ASM only), the transition from gutter to steep roof may require the use of tapered insulation incorporating a drainage plane between layers of tapered insulation. See Construction Detail E1.7.16 Built-in Gutter for an illustrated example.

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13 METAL FLASHINGS

13.1 General

This section pertains to linear metal flashings (different from penetration flashings), fabricated from sheet metal and designed to divert water away from the membrane flashing termination, usually onto the roof. The metal flashing also protects the membrane from weathering and damage, provides an aesthetic finish to the roof assembly. The metal flashing is not a waterproofing component. Consequently, the roofing membrane should be continuous under the metal (see membrane flashing requirements under 10 PERIMETERS and WALLS and 11 DRAINS and PENETRATIONS).

Linear metal flashings include, without limitation,

• Coping (cap) flashing.
• Counter-flashing.
• Base flashing.
• Fascia flashing.
• Perimeter edge flashing (similar to a “gravel stop” flashing).

For further details, the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors National Association, Inc. (SMACNA) publishes a reliable reference for the proper design and installation of architectural sheet metal.

13.1.1 Definitions

Refer to the Glossary for further definitions of key terms used in this Manual.

13.1.2 Design

1. The Design Authority must specify
   1. metal type, finish and gauge.
   2. seam types.
   3. length of flashings (if different from the Guarantee Standards outlined below)
   4. method of attachment (concealed or exposed fasteners).
2. Design drawings must detail metal flashing profiles desired for the Project; keep metal flashings away from the water plane or standing water by at least 25 mm (1”).
3. Membranes that are UV-sensitive must be protected with metal flashings. Metal flashings are not required when the membrane is continuous and otherwise protected from UV radiation (as, for example, sleepers enveloped with a UV-resistant or granule-surfaced membrane).
4. All exposed membrane edges must be protected with metal flashings or a 2-part reinforced liquid flashing (in conformity with 11.3.3.3 Liquid Membrane Flashings).
5. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Design Authority may specify metal flashings to cover parapet caps, sleepers or curbs
   1. for aesthetic reasons.
   2. to protect the membrane from damage resulting from maintenance, pressure washing of decks or pavers, or foot traffic.
6. When the top surface of a wall exceeds 100 mm (4") in width, it must be sloped to promote drainage; slope the top surface at least 2% toward the roof. Drainage toward the exterior of a building is not recommended.
7. Any metal cap (coping) flashings must be fully supported.
8. As length and breadth of metal cap (coping) flashings increases, it is necessary to adjust the gauge and length of flashing segments to counteract anticipated distortions. Each type of metal will behave differently. The following standards apply to the use of pre-finished galvanized steel (the most commonly used material for metal flashings) when stiffeners or cross-breaking are not used to counter-act oil canning. The Design Authority must specify slope, gauge and length using the standards in the table below:
   

   Table 13.1 Pre-finished Galvanized Steel Cap (Coping) Flashing (Gauge and Length Standards)

   Horizontal Span	Minimum Slope	Gauge	Maximum Flashing Segment Length	Seam Options
   Up to 300 mm (12")	2%	26, 24	3000 mm (10')	S-lock or Standing Seam
   		22+		Butt Seams*
   300 - 900 mm (12" to 36")	4%	24	3000 mm (10')	S-lock or Standing Seam
   		22+		Butt Seams*
   900 mm or greater	6%	24	1200 mm (4')	S-lock or Standing Seam
   		22+		Butt Seams*

   * Refer to 13.3.3 Seams

9. To minimize oil-canning of metal flashings attached vertically, without the use of stiffener ribs or cross-breaking, the following standards apply to pre-finished galvanized steel, which is the most commonly used material for metal flashings. The Design Authority should specify slope, gauge and length using the standards in the table below:
   

   Table 13.2 Pre-finished Galvanized Steel Vertical Flashing (Gauge and Length Standards)

   Vertical Face	Gauge	Maximum Flashing Segment Length	Vertical Seam Options
   Up to 150 mm (6")	26	3000 mm (10')	S-lock
   Up to 200 mm (8")	24	3000 mm (10')	S-lock
   Up to 300 mm (12")	22+	3000 mm (10')	Butt Seams*

   * Refer to 13.3.3 Seams

10. Drip edges are not required, but strongly recommended for flashings around the outside perimeter of a building, to protect wall finishes. All flashings must be hemmed, and must extend at least 12 mm (1/2”) from the vertical face.
11. Where a parapet intersects with a wall, water must be directed to the outer surface of the wall by flashing the union with
    1. membrane flashing.
    2. membrane gussets at the corners.
    3. a metal saddle assembly.
12. All finished edges must be hemmed.
13. Gum-edged flashings must be approved by a written Variance from the RoofStar Guarantee Program.

13.2 Materials

13.2.1 Sheet Metal Grade and Gauge

1. A mill certificate must be provided by the roofing contractor when requested by the Design Authority.
2. The following minimum gauges and / or weights of commonly used metals or alloys are acceptable for use in the RoofStar Guarantee Program.

GALVANIZED STEEL: 0.50 mm (0.0196", 26 gauge) galvanized steel sheet, conforming to ASTM A653 / A653M-06 CS Type B, Z275 (G90) coating. Thickness tolerance as per ASTM A924/A924M-06 ±0.08 mm (0.003") for sheet widths not exceeding 1500 mm (60").

ALUMINUM – ZINC ALLOY COATED STEEL: 0.50 mm (0.0196", 26 gauge) aluminum-zinc alloy coated steel sheet, conforming to ASTM A792/A792M-06 CS Type B, AZM150 (AZ50) coating. Thickness tolerance as per ASTM A924/A924M-06 ±0.08 mm (0.003") for sheet widths not exceeding 1500 mm (60").

ALUMINUM: 0.80 mm (0.032", 20 gauge) aluminum sheet, utility quality to CSA HA Series - 1975, plain or embossed finish. Maximum thickness tolerance variation ± 0.06 mm (0.0025") based on 1200 mm (48") wide sheet.

STAINLESS STEEL: 0.38 mm (0.014", 28 gauge) stainless steel, Type 302, 304, 316, 2B finish to ASTM A167-82. Maximum thickness tolerance variation ± 0.04 mm (0.0015") based on 1200 mm (48") wide sheet.

COPPER: 0.56 mm (0.022", 16 oz.) copper sheet, cold rolled roofing copper to ASTM B370-81. Maximum thickness tolerance variation ± 0.09 mm (0.0035") based on 1200 mm (48") wide sheet.

ZINC: 0.80 mm (0.031") zinc Sheet conforming to European standard EN 988-1996. Maximum thickness tolerance variation ± 0.03 mm (0.0012").

Specifying authorities should indicate the type and gauge of metal required, as well as the qualifying standards. The reference standard for gauges is USS REV (metric in mm).

13.2.2 Pre-painted Finishes

1. When a painted finish on metal flashing is specified, only SMP and PVDF pre-painted finishes are acceptable. Where Architectural Metal Roofing is installed, adjoining flashings must have the same finish as the metal panels (PVDF).

13.2.3 Fasteners

1. All fasteners used to secure metal flashings must be #8 corrosion-resistant screw or expansion fastener with a low-profile head, and must be compatible with both the metal flashing material and the substrate.
2. Cladding fasteners (screws) with gasketed washers, used as exposed fasteners for metal flashing, must be No. 8 or larger, and must be made of metal compatible with, and corresponding in colour to, the flashing material.
3. Blind rivets are acceptable for securing two metal flashings together.
4. Nails are not acceptable as fasteners.

13.2.4 Sealants

1. Sealants shall be
   1. non-hardening high quality butyl or polyurethane.
   2. available in either gun grade or sealant tape form.
   3. suitable for exterior use and able to resist the effects of weathering.
   4. compatible with, and able to adhere to, the materials to which they are applied.
2. Sealants shall conform to any one of the following:
   1. CGSB 19-GP-5M, “Sealing Compound, One Component, Acrylic Base, Solvent Curing”.
   2. CAN / CGSB-19.13, “Sealing Compound, One Component, Elastomeric, Chemical Curing”.
   3. CGSB 19-GP-14M, “Sealing Compound, One Component, Butyl-Polyisobutylene Polymer Base, Solvent Curing”.
   4. CAN / CGSB-19.24, “Multi-Component, Chemical Curing Sealing Compound”.

13.3 Application

13.3.1 Fabrication

1. All finished edges must be hemmed.
2. Drip edges are not required, but strongly recommended for flashings around the outside perimeter of a building, to protect wall finishes. The drip edge must be hemmed, and must extend at least 12 mm (1/2”) from the vertical face.
3. The vertical face of cap or counter-flashings must drop vertically at least 62 mm (2 ½”), not including the drip or hemmed edge.
4. Metal edge flashings must be fabricated with a
   1. flange measuring no less than 100 mm (4") in width.
   2. vertical drop and hemmed drip edge at least 50 mm (2").
   3. sloped drop (for transitions to lower steep-sloped roofs) of no less than 100 mm (4").
5. Metal edge flashings may be constructed with or without an upstand at the outside edge. Flashings designed for a draining roof edge may perform best without an upstand (for example, when transitioning to a lower steep-sloped roof).

13.3.2 Securement

1. When mechanical fasteners are used to secure a metal flashing, the fasteners shall be spaced no more than 300 mm (12”) O.C.
2. Screw fasteners must penetrate the substrate a minimum of 19 mm (3/4”).
3. Regardless of the type of linear metal flashing, all flashing fasteners must be installed at least 87.7 mm (3 ½") above the finished roof surface.
4. Cant edge metal flashings may be mechanically fastened from the outside face.
5. Hidden metal clips must
   1. be at least 24 Gauge .
   2. be fastened as close to the bottom edge (hook) as practical but must not be fastened further than a maximum of 75 mm (3") from the bottom edge (hook).
   3. engage drip or safety edges by a minimum of 12 mm (½").
6. Hidden metal clip types include
   1. Continuous Concealed Clips, which must be attached with fasteners spaced nor more than 300 mm (12") O.C.
   2. Discontinuous Concealed Clips, which must
      1. consist of a single clip centred between the seams of each length of metal flashing.
      2. measure at least 1/3 of the length of flashing it will secure, but shall not be less than 100 mm (4") in length.
      3. be fastened with screws spaced no more than 300 mm (12") O.C.
7. Fastening the top (horizontal or sloped) surface of a flashing with exposed fasteners is not permitted.
8. Flashings secured in a reglet must be
   1. installed above the membrane flashing.
   2. inserted at least 12.7 mm (1/2”).
   3. friction-fitted within the reglet (groove) or secured on the exposed face with an acceptable fastener.
   4. sealed with a continuous bead of tooled gunnable sealant.
9. Sealants must be tooled to positively shed water.

13.3.3 Seams

1. All joints between lengths of flashing must be fully seamed.
2. Regardless of the seam type, allowances should be made for metal expansion and contraction.
3. With the exception of flashings made with 22-gauge metal (or heavier), only S-lock seams or standing seams are acceptable when connecting lengths of flashing. See the standards and tables below.
4. Notwithstanding other standards in this Manual, when metal flashings join at a corner (regardless of the angle), the top face(s) of the flashings must be joined with a standing seam.
5. Flat overlapped seams are acceptable only where
   1. the height of an inside corner is less than 100 mm (4").
   2. vertical flashings are lapped to fit under counter flashing or equipment flanges.
6. Standing seams must incorporate clips when the seam is longer than 100 mm (4”), and the clips must be
   1. fabricated from flat metal stock 24-gauge or heavier.
   2. at least 38 mm (1-1/2”) wide.
   3. spaced apart from each other no more than 200 mm (8”) O.C.
   4. secured with at least 2 acceptable low-profile flat head screws.
7. S-locked seams must be secured through flashing tab (leaf) with at least one (1) acceptable low-profile flat head screw when the seam is longer than 100 mm (4”), but fasteners must not be spaced more than 200 mm (8”) O.C.
8. Flat butt seams are permissible only for cap flashings, when the flashing is fabricated from metal equal to or heavier than 22 Gauge. Raw edges are permitted, but a flat hemmed edge is recommended for safety and aesthetics. Each seam must be supported by a saddle that is
   1. fabricated of the same profile and material as the flashing.
   2. secured to the parapet.
   3. installed to underlap the butt joint by at least 100 mm (4”) on either side.
   4. seated in two parallel beads of un-tooled sealant or butyl tape, which must be applied between the saddle and flashing on either side of the butt joint, for all three faces of the cap flashing. Secure the cap flashing to the outside and inside faces of the parapet as detailed in 13.3.2 Attachment.
9. Notwithstanding the foregoing, refer to the standards in Table 13.1 and Table 13.2 (13.1.2 Design) for seams, metal gauge and flashing length requirements applicable to metal cap (coping) flashings.

13.3.4 Cap, Counter and Base Flashings

1. Cap flashings must be fully supported by a substrate, and require a hidden clip to fasten the outside face. The inside face of cap flashings may be secured with
   1. a hidden clip.
   2. cladding fasteners (see Materials above), which must be evenly spaced between seams along each length of flashing. Use no fewer than
      1. three (3) fasteners for every 3000 mm (10') length of metal flashing.
      2. two (2) fasteners for every 2400 mm (8') length of metal flashing.
         
         

   Fasteners may not be used on the outside face of cap (coping) flashing.

2. All exposed faces of adjoining lengths of cap flashings must be connected with standing seams or s-locks, unless otherwise provided for in this Manual. See also 13.3.3.3.
3. When the outside face of a cap flashing is concealed by a wall assembly, only the outside face may be lap-seamed, provided the overlap is no less than 100 mm (4”) and the overlapping metal is embedded in mastic.
4. Counter-flashings must be secured to the vertical face, with fasteners or a reglet.
5. Metal base flashings are required for walls and curbs when the roof assembly incorporates gravel ballast and filter fabric or where a Vegetated Roof System is installed. Metal base flashings must “kick out” minimum 50 mm (2") over insulation and filter fabric. Filter fabric must be tucked up behind the base flashing.
6. Metal base flashings may be fashioned as one piece, but in the alternative, a 2-piece flashing comprised of a lower counter-flashing is the recommended approach, to facilitate roof maintenance. Install flashings in keeping with other Standards found in this Manual.

13.3.5 Metal Edge Terminations

1. Metal edge flashings (including Gravel Stop flashings) must be installed according to the standards in 10.3.5.2 Metal Edge Terminations.

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14 THE ROOF as a PLATFORM: Coverings, Living Spaces and Structures

14.1 General

1. This section covers the design and installation requirements for roofs that support an overburden, whether it is structurally supported or non-structurally situated on the roof platform. These overburdens include
   1. Roof Coverings (including, without limitation)
      1. gravel ballast.
      2. wearing surfaces and living spaces (rooftop terraces) – pavers, wood or composite decks and walkways, cast-in-place concrete, rubberized surfaces and playscapes, pet relief areas.
      3. gardens/vegetated assemblies (modular and built-in-place).
   2. Structures and Equipment (including, without limitation)
      1. planters.
      2. furnishings.
      3. hot tubs.
      4. gazebos, pergolas, nets and wind screens.
      5. housekeeping pads.
      6. photovoltaics.
      7. elevated walkways and stairs; satellite equipment; light standards; signage; lightning rods; sculptures.
      8. structural planters, pools and other water features.
2. Any covering, structure or item of equipment must be installed in a manner that protects the roof membrane and its performance.
3. Coverage under the RoofStar Guarantee may be affected by roof coverings or equipment that impede access to the roof assembly. Refer to Section 1 in this Manual.

14.1.1 Definitions

Refer to the Glossary for further definitions of key terms used in this Manual.

Extensive Vegetated Roof Assemblies, sometimes referred to as 'eco-roofs', 'low-profile green roofs,' ' rooftop gardens' or simply as 'green roofs',

1. are installed and maintained without the use of penetrating hand tools.
2. utilize pre-assembled trays, boxes, mats or other contained soil or media.
3. have minimal plant species diversity.
4. are irrigated only to establish plants.
5. have a soil depth no more than 150 mm (6").
6. are not normally accessed by building occupants.

Inaccessible Overburden refers to overburden that must be demolished in order to access the roof membrane. A concrete split slab is a type of inaccessible overburden.

Overburden (also referred to as a wearing course or layer) is a covering, structure or item of equipment that is situated on top of, and covering all or a portion of, a completed roof or waterproofing membrane assembly. Overburden includes, without limitation,

Roof Coverings

1. loose growing media, gravel (used as a covering, not exclusively as ballast), sand or any other granular material.
2. void fill.
3. tiles, pavers, supporting pedestals or other similar materials.
4. vegetated assemblies in trays, mats, other similar containers.
5. cast-in-place concrete.
6. playing surfaces.
7. pet relief areas.

Structures

1. planters, inclusive of everything they contain
2. gazebos, decks, benches.
3. water features & hot tubs.

Equipment

1. satellite / Communications.
2. lightning rods.
3. photovoltaics.
4. signage and lighting.

Roof Platform refers to a roof assembly which supports an overburden consisting of coverings, structures or equipment that are not part of the assembly.

14.1.2 Design

Membrane Roof Assemblies may be utilized for more than simple weather protection; they can be occupied by casual or regular users, for gardening, playing, lounging, or other leisure activities. Roofs intended for occupancy require that the Design Authority pay particular attention to the assembly selection itself and, especially, to the protection of the roof membrane.

A conventional roof membrane assembly is not appropriate for all types of roof coverings. For example, roof covering weight may require the Design Authority to specify particular materials, and consequently to design a roof as a Protected Membrane Roof Assembly. Furthermore, some roof coverings require maintenance that may result in damage to conventionally insulated assemblies; protected membrane roofs shield the sensitive membrane from this inevitability.

A Protected Membrane Roof Assembly (often referred to as an ‘inverted roof’) offers the designer many benefits, including

• longer lasting membranes.
• capacity for heavier dead loads.
• only one control layer to seal and join with the rest of the building envelope.
• fewer waterproofing challenges around penetrations.
• the capacity for electronic leak detection (whether passive or monitored).

For RoofStar Guarantee Standards pertaining to the securement of a ballasted Protected Membrane Roof Assembly, refer to 3 SECURING the ROOF ASSEMBLY, 3.3.2 Ballasted Roof Assemblies (PMRAs and MPMRAs).

Criteria for evaluating the sensitivity of building interiors is left to the Design Authority.

This section is written to provide guidance by way of general standards and guiding principles, to assist the designer in making the best possible choices for the roof assembly.

14.1.2.1 General

1. The building structure must be designed to support the weight of any covering, living space or structure superimposed upon the roof platform.
2. The Design Authority should give thought to the inevitability of roof repairs or replacement when designing the coverings, living spaces or structures the roof will support. This includes, without limitation,
   1. access for maintenance.
   2. material removal, storage and replacement logistics .
3. The Design Authority is responsible for the appropriate securement design of coverings, living spaces and structures, to resist anticipated wind loads. Where structural securement is desirable or required, it must be made to fully waterproofed structural supports (curbs, sleepers, posts) and must be secured to the structural support at least 200 mm (8”) above the water plane. See 11 PENETRATIONS and DRAINS. See also 3 SECURING the ROOF ASSEMBLY.
4. A roof designed and constructed as a Protected Membrane Roof is strongly recommended when
   1. the roof covering
      1. exceeds 150 mm (6”) in depth (excluding any plants).
      2. is an intensive or semi-intensive vegetated system.
      3. includes cast-in-place concrete surfaces.
      4. is installed over a podium roof area adjacent to residential high rise structures.
      5. includes water features or pools.
      6. includes expansive terrace areas or play spaces.
   2. the occupied space below a roof area contains, or will contain,
      1. highly sensitive equipment or contents (e.g. hospitals, art galleries).
      2. electronic systems (e.g. communications or data centres).
5. Roofs designed as platforms for coverings, living spaces and equipment must take into account the following Standards and Guiding Principles:
   1. Load bearing:
      1. Non-structural installations - Insulation and insulation overlays used in a conventional or modified protected membrane roof system must have a minimum load carrying capacity of 110 Kpa (20 psi), but in any event must be capable of supporting any superimposed loads on the exposed membrane, without compression or distortion of the roof system or any one of its components. Otherwise, the roof platform must be designed as a PMRA. See also 8.1.1 Design (Insulation Overlays).
      2. Structural installations - structural supports (i.e. curbs) should be considered to bear heavier dead loads, to resist specified wind loads, or to secure the equipment during seismic events.
   2. Membrane thickness and puncture resistance: Membranes must be selected for their ability to resist accidental puncture by human activity on the roof; the minimum puncture resistance must be at least 400 N. Refer to the table in 9.1.2 for minimum membrane thickness and puncture resistance requirements.
   3. Protection:
      1. Membranes must be protected from damage incurred
         1. during the construction of a building.
         2. from normal use and occupancy of the roof.
         3. from maintenance of any installation on top of a roof system, after the building has been commissioned.
      2. To prevent accidental damage and puncture from falling objects, conventional roofs at elevations lower than those designed for human occupancy should include a protective wearing course or, in the alternative, should be designed as a Protected Membrane Roof system.
      3. Where membranes installed on vertical surfaces may be damaged from foot traffic or shifting coverings, they must be protected as, for example, with base metal flashings. See 13.3.4.
      4. Filter fabrics are required for roof platforms supporting
         1. growing media and vegetation.
         2. sand and other fine materials.
         3. gravel with a diameter less than 12.7 mm (1/2”).
         4. wet mortar or concrete.
         5. XPS insulation above the membrane, in order to
            1. contain the insulation and thereby prevent ‘insulation stacking’ (displacement) when insulation boards become buoyant in water.
            2. prevent fines from settling at the membrane level and filling the voids between insulation board joints.
   4. Drainage:
      1. Roofs designed as platforms to support roof coverings, structures or equipment must promote unimpeded drainage of storm or irrigation water. Where a roof covering material naturally drains (gravel, for example), no additional drainage design is required.
      2. Overburden must be contained with drain guards, rigid barriers and filter fabric. See also 11.2.2 Roof Drains and Scuppers.
      3. Equipment supports placed on the roof system must not impede the flow of water to drains. To facilitate the adequate movement of water when supports are oriented perpendicular to drainage flow,
         1. utilize shorter supports, to a maximum length of 1200 mm (4’).
         2. incorporate drainage mats beneath the supports longer than 1200 mm (4’) in any direction.
   5. Clearance and accessibility: equipment installed on structural supports or on top of the roof system must be spaced or located in order to promote access to drains, ease of maintenance and worker or occupant safety.
   6. Integrity Scan: Every Protected Membrane Roof Assembly must be electronically scanned immediately prior to the installation of roof materials above the membrane, to ensure it is leak and damage-free.
   7. Electronic Leak Detection (ELD) is optional, depending upon the roof design, building exposure and desired Guarantee coverage. See also 1.3.3 Quality Assurance and 1.6 RoofStar Guarantee: Coverage and Limitations.

14.1.2.2 Roof Coverings

14.1.2.2.1 Gravel

Note that gravel used as ballast on a PMRA or MPMRA is considered a means of securement, and is covered in 3 SECURING the ROOF ASSEMBLY and in 12.1 Protected and Modified Protected Membrane Assemblies.

1. When gravel is specified as the roof covering,
   1. the design must include gravel guards around roof drains.
   2. only washed gravel may be used.
2. When the gravel used as a roof covering is crushed, or is smaller than 12 mm (1/2”),
   1. a geotextile protection layer must be installed immediately above the roof membrane.
   2. the gravel must be deep enough to retain the geotextile protection layer.

14.1.2.2.2 Wearing Surfaces and Living Spaces

1. Any wearing surface may be installed on a conventionally insulated roof assembly, provided
   1. the compressive strength of the insulation will support it.
   2. the insulation in the roof assembly is overlaid with a suitable insulation overlay (see 8.3.1.4).
   3. the wearing surface does not bond with or touch the roof field membrane or membrane flashing.
   4. drainage of storm or irrigation water is not impeded.
2. When concrete paver walkways or platforms are specified, they must promote free drainage of water. This can be achieved by using adequately spaced
   1. pedestals.
   2. proprietary pads.
   3. XPS insulation.
   4. drainage mats.
3. Wearing surfaces may be sloped or level, depending upon the intent of the design, and therefore Project specifications and drawings should indicate this.
4. When cast-in-place concrete is used as a roof covering directly over the roof membrane, the concrete must be separated from the membrane with both of the following:
   1. A bond-breaking material, such as a proprietary drainage mat or XPS insulation.
   2. A filter fabric or barrier material acceptable to the membrane manufacturer, able to prevent the concrete slurry from reaching the membrane.

14.1.2.2.3 Vegetated Roof Systems (VRSs)

1. Modular vegetated systems must be designed for wind uplift resistance, based on the Specified Wind Loads calculated using the WIND-MVRA online calculator (see also 3 SECURING the ROOF ASSEMBLY). Since VRSs often provide ballast for PMRAs and may be installed by someone other than the roofing contractor, the Design Authority must specify the coordination of work to ensure the roof assembly is immediately and properly secured.
2. Conventionally insulated roof assemblies may be used to support any type of Vegetated Roof System (VRS), provided
   1. the compressive strength of the insulation will support it.
   2. the insulation in the roof assembly is overlaid with a suitable insulation overlay (see 8.3.1.4).
   3. the membrane manufacturer is agreeable to the application and is confident the membrane can withstand the anticipated hydrostatic pressures when the vegetated system is fully saturated with water
   4. the membrane is fully adhered.
3. Notwithstanding the above, semi-intensive and intensive vegetated systems should be designed as part of a Protected Membrane Roof Assembly. See also 14.1.2.1.7 above.
4. Every roof that supports a Vegetated Roof System must have, in addition to a drainage layer and membrane protection, a
   1. root barrier.
   2. filter fabric layer.
5. Vegetated Roof Systems that are built in place should be designed with an additional layer of protection immediately below the growing media and above the rest of the roof and vegetation assembly, to ensure the protection of these materials from tools.
6. Separation Zones, which are free of growing media or vegetation and protect vulnerable membrane seams from root damage, must be
   1. at least 300 mm (12”) wide, or greater as determined through Specified Wind Load calculations (see also 3 SECURING the ROOF ASSEMBLY).
   2. bordered by a non-penetrating, surface-installed physical barrier (for example, a retention Tee).
   3. installed around the perimeter of the Vegetated Roof System, and around any of the following, which may be contained within the area covered by the VRS:
      1. roof drains.
      2. roof penetrations.
      3. sleepers and curbs.
      4. any mechanical equipment not supported by a curb.
      5. expansion or control joints.
7. Membrane flashing must be protected from damage, both during the installation of vegetated systems and during ongoing maintenance. Refer to 13.3.4 for guidance.

14.1.2.3 Structures and Equipment

1. Refer to the general design standards and guidelines in 14.1.2.1 General.
2. Non-structural installations
   1. are strongly recommended whenever practical, since they
      1. minimize the number of penetrations, curbs or sleepers necessary for structural securement.
      2. eliminate possible weak points in the membrane assembly, where a leak may occur.
      3. avoid dedicated mechanical drainage.
      4. simplify removal of materials when membrane repairs are required.
   2. must be placed on an appropriate protection layer or supported by pedestals, pavers or other means of distributing weight and point loading.
   3. may be placed on a Conventionally Insulated Roof provided the insulation in the roof assembly is capable of supporting all anticipated dead loads, live loads and point loads (see 14.1.2.1.4).
3. A structural concrete planter or water feature that is
   1. cast-in-place should be constructed on a pre‐curb that is continuously waterproofed as part of the primary roof membrane and waterproofed independently of the primary roof membrane.
   2. pre-cast must be secured to
      1. a pre‐curb that is continuously waterproofed as part of the primary roof membrane.
      2. structural supports that are waterproofed in keeping with the Standards in 11 PENETRATIONS and DRAINS.
4. When concrete walls or structures are constructed without a pre-curb, all concrete surfaces must be fully and continuously enveloped with the primary roof membrane. See also 1.6.1.2.
5. Pre‐curbs must be
   1. at least 100 mm (4") in height above the water plane of the highest adjacent roof assembly (see Construction Detail D1.7.6-5 Curbs & Sleepers (Pre-curb for Planters)).
   2. completely enveloped with fully adhered acceptable membrane flashing (including all faces of drainage knock‐outs).
   3. properly waterproofed around dowels with a 2-part reinforced liquid membrane flashing.
6. When a structural planter adjoins a Protected Membrane Roof Assembly, the planter design must include either of the following options for drainage:
   1. a plumbed mechanical drain that
      1. incorporates a debris guard and maintenance access.
      2. extends above the top surface of the growing media at least 50 mm (2”).
   2. drainage knock-outs in the pre-curb wall, which should be wide enough to allow for the free flow of water over or past of the membrane flashing plies.
7. When a structural planter adjoins a conventionally insulated roof assembly, only a plumbed mechanical drain is permissible.
8. A design review is advisable when a structural water features incorporates penetrations for wiring, lights or other submerged features.
9. Tiles or other architectural finishes may be applied to the waterproofing membrane, subject to a written Variance from the RoofStar Guarantee administration and approval by the membrane manufacturer.
10. Drains, re-circulation inlets and outlets used in water features must include clamping rings and must be sealed to the membrane assembly.
11. When a leak detection system is specified, or required, only non‐ferrous metal drains may be used.
12. Drain connections to internal piping must be made with mechanical compression type seals only.

14.2 Materials

14.2.1 Insulation and Insulation Overlays

See also 7 INSULATION

1. Insulation that supports an acceptable roof covering must have a minimum compressive strength equal to or exceeding the dead loads and anticipated overall live loads and point loads of the overburden.
2. Insulation used in a PMRA must be Extruded Polystyrene Foam Insulation (XPS).
3. When XPS (with or without a concrete topping) is specified as the drainage layer, it must be grooved (by the manufacturer or post-manufacturing).
4. When an insulation overlay is required (see 14.1.2.2), it must be a composite product
   1. no less than 12.7 mm (½") thick.
   2. with a minimum compressive strength of 620 kPa (90 psi).

14.2.2 Membranes

1. Refer to the table in 9.1.2 for minimum membrane thickness and puncture resistance requirements.

14.2.3 Components for Vegetated Systems and Other Roof Coverings

1. While drainage mats, filter fabrics, root barriers and other vegetated system components are ancillary to the roof assembly, they nevertheless must be
   1. acceptable to the manufacturer of the primary membrane and XPS insulation (when used).
   2. suitable for the installed roof covering.
   3. selected for their ability to support dead loads, live loads and point loads.
   4. capable of permitting the anticipated flow rate of water.
2. Geosynthetic drainage cores, and geocomposites with factory-laminated filter fabrics, must
   1. be molded (dimpled) or woven plastic grids so that it contacts no more than 40% of XPS insulation surface area.
   2. be manufactured with a minimum thickness of 9.5 mm (3/8”).
   3. provide a uniform support for roof coverings, structures or equipment installed on the roof platform.
   4. have a compressive strength equal to or greater than the design and anticipated live loads of the roof platform and its supported coverings, structures or equipment.
3. Fabric filter mats must be
   1. water permeable and have proven long term weather resistance.
   2. strong enough to withstand traffic abuse and prevent displacement of insulation boards under flotation conditions.
4. Root intrusion barriers
   1. must be sheets or boards that are acceptable to the primary roof membrane manufacturer.
   2. may be polyethylene or polypropylene sheeting, provided the material is no less than .2mm (8 mils) thick.
5. Membrane protection must be either of the following materials:
   1. asphaltic core board measuring at least 3 mm (1/8”) thick.
   2. XPS insulation measuring at least 25 mm (1”) thick.
   3. a geotextile protection layer with a minimum thickness/weight of 200 g/m2 (applicable when the gravel is crushed or smaller than 12 mm (1/2”) in diameter).
6. Moisture retention and reservoir layers must be acceptable to the manufacturer/supplier of the vegetated system.

14.2.4 Decorative Gravel

1. Decorative gravel (different in function from gravel ballast) must be washed and may be smooth or crushed.
2. Large grade gravel may withstand wind scour more effectively than smaller gravel. The Design Authority should determine the gradients, based on the Specified Wind Loads for the roof. For size options, see 12.1.2.4 for Protected Membrane Roof Assemblies.

14.2.5 Pavers and Pedestals

1. Pavers that are partially supported (i.e. with pedestals) should be capable of resisting anticipated loads (consider, for example, hydraulically pressed concrete pavers).
2. Pedestals
   1. should be adjustable, when a level surface is required.
   2. must be proprietary (purpose-made) and include an integral spacer rib measuring at least a 3mm (⅛”), to uniformly separate pavers.

14.3 Application

14.3.1 General

14.3.1.1 Membranes

1. Membranes and membrane flashing must be installed in keeping with the Standards found elsewhere in this Manual.
2. Protection of roof membranes from mechanical damage caused by tools, accident or the work of others is mandatory during the installation and maintenance of any roof covering or living space.

14.3.1.2 Drainage

1. A drainage mat must be installed below the XPS insulation. A second drainage layer may be installed above the insulation but this is at the discretion of the Design Authority.
2. Specialized proprietary drainage products must be acceptable to the membrane manufacturer.

14.3.1.3 Filter Fabric

1. Fabric filter mats must be
   1. installed loose-laid (un-bonded) over the insulation and below any type of ballast or roof covering.
   2. overlapped at all edges a minimum of 300mm (12").
   3. at least 2.5 m x 2.5 m (8’ x 8’) in size.
   4. slit to fit over roof penetrations, and cut out around roof drains and other openings.
2. Filter fabric must extend up perimeter edges and curbs, and placed loose (unattached) under metal counter flashings or wall finishes. See also 13.3.4.3 concerning metal flashings.

14.3.2 Roof Coverings

14.3.2.1 Decorative Gravel

1. When gravel is specified as a roof covering, only washed gravel may be used.
2. Ballast guards must be installed around all roof drains. See 11.2.2 Roof Drains & Scuppers.
3. Crushed gravel specified as a roof covering must be installed over a geotextile protection layer, or its equivalent, when the gravel is crushed or smaller than 12 mm (1/2”) in diameter.

14.3.2.2 Wearing Surfaces and Living Spaces

1. Pavers and unit-type masonry, such as brick or stone, must be supported by
   1. proprietary (purpose-made) pedestals with at least a 3mm (⅛”) integral spacer ribs for uniform spacing of pavers.
   2. a proprietary drainage layer overlaid with a filter fabric mat.
   3. a drainage layer of loose aggregate (such as pea gravel) measuring at least 25 mm (1") in depth, installed over a filter fabric.
2. Pedestals or a drainage layer must permit at least 12.7 mm (½″) of vertical separation between the paver and the underlying substrate, to provide airflow for drying surfaces and assist in leveling. Pedestals should not impede the flow of water or air, and should uniformly distribute the dead load of pavers, and other unit masonry products, as well as predicted live loads.

14.3.2.3 Vegetated Roof Systems

1. All vegetated roof systems must be installed as specified and shown on drawings, and in any case must include a
   1. root barrier.
   2. drainage layer.
   3. filter cloth.
2. Roofs that support built-in-place soil or growing media beds should include an additional penetration-resistant protection course between the growing bed and other vegetated assembly materials. The protection course prevents damage to these materials whenever sharp-pointed or edged tools are used for the maintenance of the vegetated assembly.
3. Root intrusion barriers must be
   1. installed in a continuous plane above the roof membrane.
   2. located within the vegetated system as specified by the Design Authority.
   3. sealed at all seams and laps with a compatible tape, as directed by the manufacturer's instructions.
   4. carried up the inside of soil retention perimeters (separation zones).
   5. sealed to the separation zone edge material.
4. Separation Zones must be
   1. at least 300 mm (12”) wide.
   2. bordered by a non-penetrating, surface-installed physical barrier.
   3. installed along all roof perimeters.
   4. installed around
      1. up-stands.
      2. roof drains.
      3. penetrations.
      4. sleepers and curbs.
      5. mechanical equipment.
      6. expansion or control joints.

14.3.3 Structures and Equipment

1. Structural planters and water features (pools, ponds, water courses) must be constructed with a pre‐curb (start‐up curb), onto which the planter or water feature wall is formed and poured.
2. Pre‐curbs must be
   1. at least 100 mm (4") in height above the water plane of the highest adjacent roof assembly (see Construction Detail D1.7.6-5 Curbs & Sleepers (Pre-curb for Planters)).
   2. completely enveloped with fully adhered acceptable membrane flashing (including all faces of drainage knock‐outs).
3. Dowels (reinforcement bar) must be
   1. inserted into the pre‐curb after application of the membrane flashing.
   2. waterproofed around dowels (reinforcement bar) using either a reinforced 2-part liquid membrane flashing or two (2) applications of a single-component liquid membrane flashing (fully cured between coats),
      1. applied to properly prepared surfaces.
      2. in keeping with the application standards in 11.3.3.3 for 2-part reinforced liquid membrane flashing, or the manufacturer’s instructions for single-component liquid membrane flashing.
      3. applied no less than 50 mm (2”) on vertical surfaces and around the base of each dowel.
4. Structural planters and water features must be waterproofed on the inside with a fully‐adhered membrane that terminates on the inside vertical surface of the planter at least 100 mm (4”) above the level of soil, growing medium or water, or at the outside edge of the top surface of the planter or water feature wall.
5. Membranes must be terminated in keeping with the Standards in 11 DRAINS and PENETRATIONS, and protected with metal reglet or cap flashings in keeping with 13 METAL FLASHINGS.
6. A membrane integrity scan and any resulting repairs must be undertaken before the membrane is covered or submerged.

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SBS Modified Bitumen Roof Systems

Accepted Materials

© RCABC 2018
No reproduction of these Standards, in whole or in part, is lawful without the expressed permission of the RGC Guarantee Program.