Choosing the right roofing materials is an important first step in construction, whether building something from the ground up or renovating an old structure. Roofshield®, pioneered and manufactured by Don & Low in the UK since 1996, stands out as the original air and vapour permeable membrane, offering the perfect solution for outstanding roof protection.
But before we delve into the unique benefits of Roofshield®, let’s discuss some common misconceptions surrounding the terminology of ‘breather’ membranes. The term ‘breathable’ implies that the membrane itself provides adequate ventilation, leading to roofs being constructed without ventilation products when, in reality, they have always been necessary. It's crucial to point out that a roof doesn't necessarily need ventilating if the underlay has been third-party and NHBC approved as not requiring additional ventilation.
A membrane earns the classification of a breather when it allows the passage of air and water vapour. In many markets, a low resistance (LR) underlay, often mistaken for a breather, is technically categorised as a vapour-permeable membrane, allowing solely for the passage of water vapour.
Air-permeable membranes, or breather membranes, facilitate air and water vapour movement. They fall under the breather category and allow for enhanced ventilation. Determining whether an underlay is breathable or "air-permeable" can be achieved by reviewing the manufacturer's website and datasheet. It's essential to note that the product should be accompanied by a BBA certificate, commonly denoted as ‘BBA – Cold Non-Ventilated’ and ‘BBA – Warm Non-Ventilated.’
Roofshield® holds BBA certification for use in cold and warm non-ventilated roofs, as well as NHBC’s approval that no additional ventilation is required. Don & Low’s market leading membrane not only eliminates the need for extra ventilation but is also perfectly suited for ventilated roofs, therefore delivering a reliable and efficient way to further reduce the risk of condensation buildup.
5 Reasons Why Roofshield® is ‘A Cut Above’
Excellent Water Resistance: Roofshield® is engineered with cutting-edge materials, produced in-house, to form a water-resistant barrier against rain and snow. This ensures your property remains dry and protected, shielding the interior from the harsh elements.
Breathability for Enhanced Ventilation: In addition to water resistance, Roofshield® offers breathability, allowing moisture vapour to escape while maintaining a weather-tight seal. This unique feature prevents issues like condensation and mould growth, ensuring a healthy indoor environment and prolonging the life of the roof and the overall structure.
Durability and Longevity: Crafted with durability in mind, Roofshield® is designed to withstand the test of time and challenges posed by external factors such as UV radiation, temperature fluctuations and environmental pollutants. Rigorous testing ensures long-term durability, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
Ease of Installation: Roofshield's ease of installation saves both time and labour costs, making it suitable for a wide range of construction projects. The straightforward installation process and elimination of the need for ventilation products ensure immediate weather resistance and speeds up the roof’s completion.
Environmental Sustainability: Committed to environmental sustainability, Roofshield® is designed with recyclable materials and produced with a focus on efficiency, minimising its carbon footprint. By choosing Roofshield®, you protect your property and contribute to a responsible and sustainable approach to construction. Moreover, Roofshield® comes with a standardised Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) report.
Always Evolving to Meet the Demands of Modern Construction
Thanks to Don & Low’s R&D developments, Roofshield’s weight has been recently boosted from 185 grams to 196 grams per square metre. As a result, Roofshield® now stands out as the heaviest underlay in its class. This enhancement benefits the membrane’s strength and water resistance, resulting in even better protection under harsh weather conditions.
Mitigating the need for roof space ventilation, Roofshield® is the ideal choice for builders, architects and property owners alike seeking optimal roof performance and longevity. With its advanced technology, breathability, durability, ease of installation and focus on environmental sustainability, Roofshield® is not just a roofing underlay; it's a testament to excellence and continuous innovation in the construction industry.
For more information about Roofshield® and Don & Low’s building envelope, contact 0808 169 4444 and membranes@donlow.co.uk or visit www.donlow.co.uk.
