Whether it’s wind, rain or snow, sun or frost, a roof is on the front-line each and every day, therefore it pays to choose a waterproofing material which can withstand whatever Mother Nature throws at it.  The toughest, most durable waterproofing membrane and one that will withstand our increasingly destructive weather in the long-term, is mastic asphalt.

Roofs across the UK are exposed to the elements and temperatures from a sizzling 38ºC in summertime all the way down to a shivering and mind-numbing -27ºC in midwinter. Roofing materials have to be tough enough to cope with this wide temperature swing, otherwise they will degrade and ultimately fail.

Wind will also give roofs a beating, especially taller structures or those buildings which have more exposed roofing surfaces. Vibrations caused by wind can lead to material fatigue and crack formation. Hail and snow are another pair of heavy-hitters and can also cause mechanical roof damage, while freeze/thaw cycles are an environmental stress for many roofing materials. Water expands when it freezes and can therefore enlarge cracks.

If you want a roof that will last, then it pays to use mastic asphalt.  It is highly resistant to all types of weather and attacks from thermal shock caused by rapid temperature changes, which are a frequent source of breakdown in many other types of membrane.

Providing such excellent wear against the extremes of weather – and with a life expectancy of 50 years and more – the waterproof membrane is fast becoming the material of choice for a manner of different buildings including, schools, offices, shopping centres, hotels and even churches.

The traditional material comprising of limestone and bitumen, with the addition of modern polymers, is robust enough to withstand severe and fluctuating weather and is both non-toxic and non-flammable. Its durability of use is one of its major benefits, with no application too tricky.

Mastic asphalt has one further advantage over other types of waterproof membrane – it is carbon neutral – a massive bonus for any building owner anxious to show their green credentials and, when it has reached the end of its useful life, it can be recycled or used as roof screed, minimising the impact on the environment.

Highly cost-effective, mastic asphalt offers lower installation costs than many other types of membranes. Its versatility makes it the ideal choice for not only flat roofing, but also flooring and paving. It is also extensively used on bridges, car parks and other types of structural decks.