PVC

ROOFER’S
GUIDE

2023 EDITION
INTRODUCTION
 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

INTRODUCTION
The quality of a roof construction depends on several factors that
must function together towards a common objective: ensuring the
long-term performance of the waterproofing system.

The main role of a roof is to keep the building dry and protect it
from the weather. In addition, the roof assembly must be designed
to ensure continuous waterproofing through all elements of the
building envelope. The vertical roof elements, as well as the
waterproofing of the various roof details and penetrations, must
therefore be addressed with the same care as the sealing of
the roof field surface. Next to rain, the roof must also withstand
internal condensation and water vapor migration to prevent the
roof components from deteriorating over time.

In addition to protecting against the weather, the roof components

must be stable and properly fixed to the structure. The fastening
and adhesion methods must allow the roof assembly to withstand
thermal cycles and live loads in order to limit the material
deformation that could compromise the waterproofing. Beyond
stability of the materials, the roof system must also bear the
normal negative pressures exerted by the wind.

Several factors shall be considered so a roof meets its long-term

performance objectives while working as expected:

 The selection of appropriate materials

 The correct design of the roof assembly
 The proper installation of roof system components
 The regular maintenance of the roof

The main purpose of this PVC Roofers Guide is to present the best
practices regarding the installation of PVC-P (PolyVinylChloryde
Plasticised) synthetic waterproofing membrane systems as
recommended by SOPREMA.

As a preamble to the installation methods, the General Information

section summarises SOPREMA’s requirements regarding surface
preparation, membrane layout, slope and other elements to be
considered when designing or building a roof. These requirements,
unlike product installation methods, must be followed to meet
the requirements of SOPREMA warranties. For more information
on this subject, please read the “General Conditions for Roofing
Warranties” in the Warranty section of the SOPREMA website.

In this version of the guide, emphasis has been put on the

installation steps for the different types of SOPREMA Single-
ply PVC-P membranes. Descriptions are organised by adhesion
methods:

 Loose laid
 Mechanically fastened
 Bonded with cold adhesive

3
The PVC Roofers Guide also introduces methods for installing
components other than membrane, namely insulation panels,
support panels, and other main accessories.

In conclusion, this PVC Roofers Guide contains information that

is relevant to all installers, professionals in charge of assembly
design, site inspectors, project managers, estimators and any
other person involved in roof construction and looking for answers
regarding the installation of SOPREMA’s main roofing products.
 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0. GENERAL INFORMATION 9

1.1. Manufacturing Process 9
1.1.1. Coextrusion 9
1.1.2. Caste Spreading 9
1.2. Storage 10
1.3. Membrane Selection 10
1.4. Labelling 10
1.5. Slope 11
1.6. The Different Substrates 11
1.6.1. Concrete Surfaces 12
1.6.2. Wood Deck 12
[Link]. Planks 12
[Link]. Plywood Boards 13
[Link]. Oriented Strand Boards (OSB) 13
[Link]. Treated Wood 13
[Link]. Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) 13
1.6.3. Steel Deck 13
1.7. Fastening Methods 14
1.8. Equipment 15
1.8.1. Tool Condition 15
1.8.2. Indicative Temperature 15
1.9. Membrane Layout 16
1.9.1. Sheet Layout on Horizontal Roof Surfaces 17
1.9.2. Placement of PVC Membranes 18
1.9.3. Temporary Waterproofing 19
1.9.4. Layout of Flashing Membranes 19
1.9.5. Membrane Cutting Suggestions 20
1.9.6. Control Test Procedures 21
1.9.7. Damage Repair 22

2.0. MEMBRANE INSTALLATION METHODS 24

2.1. Type of Roof Build Up 25
2.1.1. Non-insulated Roof System or Cold Roof 25
2.1.2. Insulated Roof System or Warm Roof 25
2.1.3. Inverted Roof 25
2.2. Installation Methods 26
2.2.1. Loose Laid (Ballasted) PVC Membranes 26
2.2.2. Fully Adhered (Glued) PVC Membranes 27
[Link]. Non-insulated Roof 27
[Link]. Roof with Insulation Boards 28
[Link]. Re-Roof with Bitumen Layers 28
2.2.3. Mechnically Fixed PVC Membranes 28
[Link]. Side Lap Fixing System 29
[Link]. Bar Fixing 30
[Link]. Induction Welding 31 5
3.0. INSULATION INSTALLATION METHODS 34
3.1. General Information 35
3.2. Storage 35
3.3. Polyisocyanurate Boards 35
3.3.1. Limitations 35
3.3.2. Installation Methods 35
3.4. Rockwool Boards 35
3.4.1. Limitations 35
3.4.2. Installation Methods 35
3.5. Extruded Polystyrene Boards 36
3.5.1. Limitations 36
3.5.2. Installation Methods 36

4.0. SUPPORT PANELS INSTALLATION METHODS 38

4.0.1. Limitations 38
4.0.2. Storage 38
4.1. High-Density Polyisocyanurate Boards 38
4.1.1. Installation Methods 38
4.2. Wood Fibre 38
4.2.1. Installation Methods 38
4.3. Perlite 39

5.0 . ACCESSORIES 41

6.0. DETAILS 43
6.1. SC1 – Welding Schemat 44

6.2. UP1 - Upstand with pressure seal termination strip 45

6.3. UP2 – Upstand with roof edge termination profile 46

6.4. UP3 – Upstand with metal capping termination 47

6.5. DR1 – Drain detail 48

6.6. FR1 – Flat roof edge termination 49

6.7. MJ1 – Movement joint detail 50

6.8. UP4 – Upstand termination at door 51

6.9. UP5 – Upstand with total insulation encapsulation 52

6.10. TP1 – Technical penetration detail on warm roof 53

6.11. UP6 – Upstand termination with chase termination 54

6.12. UP7 – Upstand warm roof termination under capping 55

 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

6.13. UP8 – Over flow termination 56

6.14. GRUP1 – Upstand termination detail on green roof 57

6.15. GRUP2 – Upstand termination on warm roof with greenery 58

6.16. SS1 – SOPRASOLAR pedestal detail 59

7
 GENERAL
INFORMATION
 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

1.0. GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1. MANUFACTURING PROCESS
The manufacturing processed for this wide range of PVC
materials are quite diversified, and specifically include:
1.1.1. Coextrusion
In this process, the mixture of material components (resins,
plasticisers, stabilisers, pigments, etc.) in each extruder is
introduced through a hopper into a cylindrical chamber.
Here it is heated up and pressed by worm screws into a co-
extrusion head, where the single extruders converge, and then
it is laminated in a calender. The liner thickness is automatically
adjusted by electronic equipment that controls the opening of the
extrusion head and of the calender.
The material thus obtained is a single-layer homogeneous, non-
reinforced liner, with high tensile properties and high resistance
to static and dynamic puncturing. This process can also produce
two-colour, single-layer membrane with a signal layer.

NOTE: This diagram merely gives an idea of the process and is not indicative of the actual lay-out and methods
used at the SOPREMA’s proprietary plant.

1.1.2. Caste Spreading

This is a manufacturing process that creates waterproof
membranes in which the reinforcement becomes an integral part
of the liner.
At room temperature, a spreading head lays a substrate of a mixture
of liquidviscous state products called plastisol. This contains
resins, plasticisers, stabilisers, pigments, etc. and determines the
final characteristics of the waterproof liner.
After gelation (a melting process achieved by raising the
temperature inside the ovens), the plastisol solidifies.
The spreading and gelation process is repeated on line four times
in a row.
Thus, membranes manufactured by the spreading method are
composed of four differently formulated layers. An internal
reinforcement, either polyester or glass mesh, is inserted between
the second and third layers.
This manufacturing system establishes a molecular bond between
the four layers creating a homogenous and flexible single-layer
liner that can be combined with a thermally treated geotextile
layer that improves its gripping characteristics or allows it to be
laid on materials that are not chemically compatible with PVC-P.
The spreading process can also produce two-colour, single-layer
membranes with a signal layer. 9
 NOTE: This diagram merely gives an idea of the process and is not indicative of the actual lay-out and methods used at the
SOPREMA’s proprietary plant.

1.2. STORAGE
FLAGON PVC membranes are delivered on site in rolls, on flat, ventilated
pallets. They should be stored in a dry place or, if this is not possible, they
should be protected against dampness, rain and snow using waterproof
sheets.

1.3. MEMBRANE SELECTION

FLAGON S FLAGON SR FLAGON SV FLAGON SFC

Ballasted roof system not

subject to pedestrian traffic
Ballasted roof system subject
to pedestrian/vehicular traffic

Ballasted roof system for

roof garden
Mechanically fixed
roof system
Mechanically fixed roof system
on thermal insulation
Fully adhered system
on thermal insulation
Fully adhered system
on reinforced concrete
Fully adhered system- renovation
bituminous waterproofing

Exposed vertical surfaces

Detailings

1.4. LABELLING
® Flag S.p.A.
via Industriale dell'Isola, 3
All FLAGON PVC membranes have a
white label identifying the membrane,
24040 Chignolo d'Isola (BG) - Italy
Tel. +[Link].49
Fax +[Link].49
e-mail: info@[Link] - [Link]

CE certifications: 1085-CPD-0010 CE norms: EN 13956:2007

its thickness, dimensions, and batch
number.
TIPO/TYPE

FLAGON SR
SPESS./THICK./EPAISSEUR mm DIMENSIONI/DIMENSIONS m

1.5 2.10 X 20.00 It is recommended to take pictures of

the labels when products are delivered
OPER. LOTTO/LOT. NR. SEQ DATA/DATE

92 2 163 18/10/07
onsite.
FLAGON
PVC
IMMAGAZZINARE IN
LUOGO ASCIUTTO
KEEP DRY
ENTREPOSER A SEC

MADE IN ITALY
Il manto NON è soggetto agli obblighi derivanti dalla Normativa CEE 79/831 sulle sostanze pericolose.
Due to its formulation this product does not need to be submitted to CEE 79/831 Standard concerning dangerous materials.
 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

1.5. SLOPE
The slope of all roofing
systems must be at least 1%.
The roof slope must be even
and continuous towards the
drains.
There must be a gentle slope
around the drain to prevent
the membrane from wrinkling
at this location when it is
applied.
When the lowest level of the roof is a junction between structural
elements, install backslope crickets to direct the flow of water
towards the drains.

1.6. THE DIFFERENT SUBSTRATES

Surface preparation depends not only on the type of membrane
installed, but also on the type of substrate. Special care must
be taken according to the substrate type: concrete, wood or
metal. The following section presents the particularities of
several materials not manufactured by SOPREMA that are
commonly found in construction projects. In such cases, these are
recommendations only and approval may be required from the
substrate manufacturers.

SUBSTRATE TYPE
CONCRETE
Structural concrete

Cellular concrete

Soundproofing concrete

WOOD
Plank

Plywood

OSB

Pressure-treated wood

Surface-treated wood

Cross-laminated timber (CLT)

METALS
Steel deck

Prepainted steel (flashing)

Galvanised steel

Stainless steel

Aluminium

Copper

11
 1.6.1. Concrete Surfaces
Concrete must be fully cured before membrane application, or
have no more then 7% of moisture content.

A minimum curing time of 14 days is

generally required in summer. A longer
Consult the
period may be required in other seasons.
contractor who
Curing time also depends on the thickness
poured the
and density of the concrete.
concrete for more
details about Surfaces must be dry, clean, and free
concrete curing on of loose particles, formwork and curing
a specific project. products, irregularities, slurry, laitance
etc.
Concrete slabs must always be prepared according to type of
membrane installed.
Surfaces must have a concrete surface
profile (CSP as per the International
Concrete Repair Institute) of 3 to 5 for
all types of PVC-P membranes.
Protrusions along concrete formwork
and construction joints must not
exceed 5 mm.
All holes over 5 mm must be filled
with fast-setting concrete, depending
on the surface condition.
Suggested tool: Concrete profile international evaluation tool.

1.6.2. Wood Deck

[Link]. Planks
Wood decks are usually made of softwood, with sap.
If this type of deck is made of old planks, the surfaces may be
irregular, and the presence of used nails and screws could carry a
high risk of membrane perforation.
To prevent problems related to this type of substrate, it is
recommended to install cover boards mechanically fastened
or bonded with DUOTACK adhered to the planks before the
application of the membrane.
 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

[Link]. Plywood Boards

Although this type of wood carries little risk linked to resin or old
mechanical fasteners, membrane delamination or wrinkles may
occasionally occur at the junctions of the boards when using a
fully adhered system.

Wrinkles typically appear soon after installation of the membrane,

particularly when humidity in the
boards evaporates.
To prevent this occurrence, SOPREMA
recommends installing cover boards
mechanically fastened to the
plywood boards before application
of the membranes.

[Link]. Oriented Strand Boards

(OSB)
Like plywood, this type of wood also presents little risk associated
with resin or old mechanical fasteners. However, when this type of
board is used, the surface treated against moisture should always
be installed face down.

If not, an adhesion test must be performed to ensure that the

treated surface does not affect membrane adhesion and is
comparable to untreated surfaces.

[Link]. Treated Wood

Pressure-treated wood, whether fire or humidity resistant, is not
required in SOPREMA’s waterproofing systems. However, when
used, the following recommendations apply:
Cold adhesive-bonded membranes can be installed on pressure-
treated wood.
Surface-treated wood (with a preservation treatment applied using
a paint brush or roller) is not an appropriate substrate, no matter
what type of membrane is installed. The treatment compromises
adhesion of the waterproofing membrane to the wood. However,
you may treat the surface of the cut ends of pressure-treated
wood.

[Link]. Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT)

For cross-laminated timber deck it is better to install a cover board
mechanically fastened or bonded with DUOTACK adhered to the
planks before application of the membrane.

1.6.3. Steel Deck

Gypsum boards, concrete boards or
thermal insulation boards installed on a
steel deck must have a bearing capacity
based on the space between the top
flutes (deck flute spanability).

13
 1.7. FASTENING METHODS
To ensure the performance of roofing materials that are
mechanically fastened, bonded with adhesive or ballasted, it is
very important to use the appropriate quantity of mechanical
fasteners, adhesive or ballast according to the roof zone.
The roofs are divided into three zones:
 The roof surface;

 The roof perimeter;

 The roof corners.

For most projects, the required number of mechanical fasteners

and amount of adhesive varies from zone to zone.
For more details about the required quantity of adhesive or
mechanical fasteners, consult the SOPREMA Wind Uplift
Resistance reports according to AS/NZS 1170.2:2021 Structural
Design Actions, Part 2: Wind Actions, available from your local
SOPREMA representative.
A separation layer should be installed between the roof
membrane and the ballast layer (FOR COMPLETE INSTALLATION
INFORMATION, PLEASE CONSULT YOUR LOCAL SOPREMA
REPRESENTATIVE)
The wind uplift resistance of protected systems is obtained
through the ballast. This weight keeps the system in place during
heavy rains. Before laying the ballast material, always install
either a filter layer or a drainage panel. Finally, to make sure that
the structure is sufficiently resistant, the load capacity must be
assessed by an engineer.
The responsibility for determining the weight required for a
particular project and for selecting a type of ballast material must
be assumed by the project designer or project manager.

REQUIRED QUANTITY OF BALLAST DEPENDING ON INSULATION THICKNESS

MINIMAL BALLAST WEIGHT

REGULAR DRAIN CONTROLLED FLOW DRAIN

Perimeters,
Thickness of Field Corners and Field Perimeters,
insulation Surface Penetrations Surface Corners and
panel mm kg/m² kg/m² kg/m² Penetrations

50 AND LESS 60 60
75 84 101
100 108 141
125 50 132 182
150 156 222
175 180 283
200 204 304
 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

1.8. EQUIPMENT
The following tools are necessary to install FLAGON PVC
membranes: hot air manual hand welder with 20 mm and 40
mm nozzle, automatic welding machine (Verimat), 40 mm rubber
roller, 6 mm brass roller (penny roller), scissors, a chamfering for
+ 1.8mm and seam probe tester.

1.8.1. Tool Condition

Ensure the nozzle is clean and uniformly open across its entire
width.

NO YES

1.8.2. Indicative Temperature

The above temperature and speeds are average for welding our
PVC membrane. Site conditions and ambient temperatures can
affect these levels.

MODEL 20 mm Nozzle 40 mm Nozzle VARIMAT

Temperature 450o C 500o C 550o C to 570o C

200 to 250 cm/

Speed - -
minute

15
 1.9. MEMBRANE LAYOUT
The following recommendations generally apply to all membranes
in order to obtain high-performance waterproofing. If some
acceptable exceptions or alternatives apply to particular products,
they will be addressed in this guide in the Installation Section of
the membrane type in question.
The layout of the membranes is traditionally done by offsetting
each end lap joint (figure 1). However, there is an alternative
method with the use of overlapping strips centred on the end lap
joints. A 300 mm strip overlapping membrane allows FLAGON
PVC membranes to be installed without offsetting the end lap
joints (figure 2).

Figure 1 Figure 2

General recommendations:
 Ensure membrane has been properly preconditioned
(Packaging intact, stored in good condition, …)

 Place the rolls where they will be used. Always start at the
lowest point of the roof.

 Unless otherwise stated, side laps should be at least 80 mm

or 120 mm following the lines provided for this purpose
according to the type of membrane used.

 End laps must be 120 mm or side by side with 300mm

strip.

 For flashing membranes, the overlap on the field

membrane shall be 150 mm.

 In order to prevent excessive thickness of membranes, the

end laps must be offset by at least 305 mm. The same rule
applies for the overlapping of flashing membranes with the
membranes of the field surface.
 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

1.9.1. Sheet Layout on Horizontal Roof Surfaces

INTERIOR SLOPE WITH DRAIN

Traditional Method

915 mm

305 mm
4
80 or 120 mm

2
m
m
5
91

5
91
5
m
m

120mm
1

1. End lap joints

2. Side lap joints
3. Minimum distance between the centre of the drain and end lap joints
on base sheet membranes overlapping the drain
4. Minimum distance between end lap joints of base sheet membranes
that are overlapping
5. Dimensions of the reinforcement membrane at the drain

17
Alternative Method with 300mm strip

3 915 mm
80 or 120 mm

1
m
5
91

91
5
m
m

1. Side lap joints

2. Dimensions of the reinforcement membrane at the drain
3. Minimum distance between the centre of the drain and end lap joints
on membranes overlapping the drain

1.9.2. Placement of PVC Membranes

Unroll the membrane making sure the side lap joint is aligned with
the centre of the drain (Figure 1);

Figure 1

Re-roll one end towards the centre;

Install this first half of the membrane;

Proceed with the opposite half.

When working on the end laps, it is important to cut at an angle the

corner of the membrane located on top of the end lap joint which
will then be covered by the adjacent roll.

Install a reinforcement membrane diagonally (45°) around drains.

 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

1.9.3. Temporary Waterproofing

If the full application cannot be completed within the same day,
a temporary waterproofing must be done cautiously on all field
surfaces, perimeters and curbs. An uncompleted waterproofing
installation can compromise the integrity of the materials by
allowing water infiltration.
The use of a sealant bead at the end of the membranes carries a
risk of infiltration and is not recommended.
It is always recommended to install the flashing sheets
immediately after the field surface sheets are laid. However,
if site organisation does not allow it, the following methods are
recommended:
Turn up the sheet of the field surface by approximately 50 mm on
the permieters and curbs. Otherwise, a 150 mm piece of membrane
must be installed at all transitions after the sheet is installed on
field surfaces. This will allow a temporary sealed system to be
obtained before applying the sheet to the flashings.
For temporary waterproofing on field surfaces, it is better to use
a self-adhesive membrane strip to waterproof between the PVC
sheet and the vapour barrier or the deck. Work should be paused so
that water runoff is directed opposite to the sections of insulation
and membranes already installed.

1.9.4. Layout of Flashing Membranes

SOPREMA requires no minimum height when creating a junction
between a roof and a vertical upstand. However, the membrane
termination must be perfectly sealed with a metal flashing or a
termination bar.
Upstands must be covered with 1 m wide membrane strips
installed vertically. The overlaps of the flashing membrane must
be offset so that the membranes covering the vertical face of the
flashing do not coincide with those covering the field surface.
For flashing sheet membranes, the overlap on the sheet of the
field surface shall be 120 mm.

19
 1.9.5. Membrane Cutting Suggestions
Inside corners
80

Outside corners
80

INTERNAL CORNER EXTERNAL CORNER

MULTIPURPOSE CORNER

Prefabricated corners are mandatory at every

angle, whether interior or exterior, at the transition
of the field surface.
 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

1.9.6. Control Test Procedures

Before proceeding with the entire area, it is crucial to ensure a
proper sealing of the overlap, and to verify the correct settings
of the hot air welder. This preventive measure is essential to
avoid any potential seam failures and to ensure a successful
installation.
Destructive test:
Cut out a 1 cm section of the welded membrane. Apply pressure
to the weld by pulling on the two ends of the sheet as illustrated
in the picture.
The membrane must fail outside the welding seam. This control
must always be carried out each day on a sample weld before the
installation of the waterproof membrane commences.
Install a patch to repair the area tested.

1 cm 1 cm

21
Non destructive test:
Carry out the test, using the welding tester (seam probe) on cooled
material.
Pass the seam probe along the welding line, exerting sufficient
pressure to identify defective seams.
In the case of defective seams, follow the seam cleaning procedure
prior to rewelding as necessary. In extreme situations, it is necessary
to weld a 15 – 20 cm strip over the existing welding line after cleaning.

1.9.7. Damage Repair

Should accidental damage occur after installation, repairs are simple.
Cut a patch of FLAGON SV/SR to completely cover the cut and round
the corners with scissors.
Trace the circumference of the patch onto the surface.
Clean the surface of the membrane with a new cloth and FLAGON PVC
CLEANER.
Spot-weld, pre-weld and weld the patch in place.
 MEMBRANE
INSTALLATION
METHODS
2.0. MEMBRANE INSTALLATION METHODS

Limitations
There is no temperature limit for PVC membranes. This is why
they can be installed efficiently even in winter conditions.
However, in very cold weather, some special work methods are
recommended to ease their installation.
Do not re-roll the membrane as tight as you would during the
summer. The last two metres of the membrane will be easier
to weld if it is rolled more loosely.

Conditioning of Membranes
It is recommended to completely unroll the membrane 10 to 15
minutes before the installation, regardless of the temperature.
This procedure releases the tension accumulated in the membrane
during manufacturing and eases the application for the installer.
When the temperature is below 0 °C, it is recommended be
stored in a warm, heated storage protected area for optimum
performance.
Before beginning to weld, pay special attention to the
following points:
Know the product you are welding: its thickness, reinforcement,
and type of underface (plain or fleece back). This information can
be found on the product TDS.
Know the type of material to which you are installing this product:
directly to concrete, to another membrane, or to a board.
Take into consideration the weather conditions. The speed
of welding depends on the temperature, humidity and wind
conditions.
Welding speed decreases in cold, humid weather, and increases in
hot, dry weather. The speed may even vary over the course of a day.
To control these differences, just perform a few tests when you are
ready to install the first roll, or whenever conditions change (for
example, perform a destructive test to verify the welding quality).
The weld will be more effective if the movement of hot air gun, is
continuous.
 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

2.1. TYPE OF ROOF BUILD UP

2.1.1. Non-insulated Roof System or Cold Roof

This refers to those roofs that do not require the inclusion of
thermal insulation.
Either ballasted or exposed roof systems can be used.

2.1.2. Insulated Roof System or Warm Roof

Roof build-up with the insulation element placed underneath the
waterproof layer. Either ballasted or exposed waterproof systems
can be used.
Unlike a Cold Roof deisgn where the insulation is only placed
between rafters, a Warm Roof has an insulation layer accross the
entire roof, preventing any thermal bridging and providing a better
thermal performance while avoiding condensation issues.

2.1.3. Inverted Roof

Roof build-up with the insulation element placed above the
waterproof layer. Only ballasted roof systems can be used for
inverted roofs.

25
 2.2. INSTALLATION METHODS

2.2.1. Loose Laid (Ballasted) PVC Membranes

The waterproof layers used for a ballasted roof system are laid
independently of the substrate. Ensuring adequate overlaps (as
per Technical Data Sheets), place the dry, waterproof layers in
sequence. If homogeneous membranes are laid (ballasting for
vehicular traffic or roof garden), fix the waterproof sheets along
the roof perimeter using a predrilled bar. This perimeter fixing is
made using the FLAGON pre-drilled bar, in galvanised steel with
20/10 thickness.
The positioning of the fixing bar, horizontally or vertically, at the
foot of the brickwork, is related to the existence and thickness of
the insulation element, as well as to the nature of the substrate
(i.e. it cannot be made horizontally in the presence of light concrete

piers).
 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

2.2.2. Fully Adhered (Glued) PVC Membranes

FLAGON PVC field membranes may be adhered for new and roof
recovery applications.
Adhered FLAGON PVC field membranes are glass or polyester
reinforced, and are bare or fleece-backed.
Refer to the safety data sheets and product data sheets for
additional information.
DO NOT INSTALL fleece backed membranes where the fleece is
wet/damp from improper storage or exposure to moisture.
This laying method involves spreading FLEXOCOL A89 single-
component polyurethane adhesive over the whole gluing surface
using a spreader or roller.
The use of FLAGON PVC membranes combined with a treated
geotextile (back fleeces) improves the adhesion and distributes
the stress and movements caused by the elements above the
membrane or by the structure. If the substrate is particularly
dry, you need to moisten it by spraying water on the surface to
be glued.
Methods for laying the membranes differ according to the type of
substrate on which they are to be installed.
Examples are as follows:

[Link]. Non-insulated Roof

Carry out a precautionary check ensuring the surface is clear, dry
and as smooth as possible. The surface should provide adequate
support for the waterproofing system.

The waterproof liner is glued directly to the substrate using

FLEXOCOL A89 polyurethane adhesive. The amount of glue to be
used is approx. 300/350 gr/m2 (depending on the porosity of the
substrate) and is spread over the substrate using a spreader or
roller.
Lay the waterproofing membranes, allowing an adequate side
overlap for welding. After finishing the placement of the horizontal
membranes, proceed with the vertical upstand and details.

27
 [Link]. Roof with Insulation Boards
The insulation boards should be mechanically fastened (in
compliance with the manufacturer’s instructions) to the
supporting surface, by fixing screws and washers.
Fleece-backed FLAGON waterproofing membranes are
then glued onto the insulation panels using FLEXOCOL A89
polyurethane adhesive.
The amount of adhesive to be used depends upon the type of
board used ranging from 300/400 gr/m2, and is spread over the
substrate using a spreader or roller. Proceed as described above
at point 2.2.1.

[Link]. Re-roof with Bituminous Layers

In this case, the existing bitumen has failed. In the case of an
existing felt system with a mineral slate surface finish, the surfaces
must be thoroughly cleaned before laying the new FLAGON PVC
waterproof liner.
Proceed as described in section [Link].

2.2.3. Mechanically Fixed PVC Membranes

Preliminary note:
In the case of a substrate made of profiled metal sheet, the
waterproof sheets should be fixed at right angles to the longitudinal
rib of the metal profile. With a concrete substrate, the waterproof
sheets can be laid both perpendicularly and transversally.
The basic criteria for the fixing design are: nature of support, shape
of the roof, building height, wind speed of the area, topography of
the area.
Wind loadings affect all roof surfaces. The design criteria to
overcome these factors relates to three areas; perimeter, corners
and field zones.
The distance between each single fixing and the number per m2 for
each area are established during the design phase of each project.
The roof perimeter zone is the most vulnerable to wind, which
is why it is essential to add an extra fixing line with a pre-drilled
 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

galvanized steel bar at the base of the perimeter upstand.

Since the corner zone is most susceptible to wind, it needs a greater
number of fixing points compared to other areas. For further
information and detailed cal details and precise calculations,
please get in touch with our Technical Offices.
The corner zone is the most heavily affected by the wind, and
therefore it requires the largest number of fixing points. For
more information and detailed calculations, please contact our
Technical Offices.
Mechanical fixings can be carried out by two different systems:

[Link]. Side Lap Fixing System

Using this system, the reinforced waterproofing membrane is fixed
through the deck/substrate by appropriate fixings and distribution
plates.
The membrane is fixed along its outside edge at centres
determined by the wind load restrictions.
Where additional fixings are required to the perimeter and corner
zones, a further row of fixings can be installed along the centre of
the membrane and then overlaid with a welded strip of membrane.
The same fixing method may be applied to a pre-drilled bar system
in place of fixings and pressure plates.

29
 [Link]. Bar Fixing
This system is used if the type of substrate requires the positioning
of the fastening line at a pre-established centre distance, owing to
defects visible underneath the roofing.
The fastening lines are placed parallel to the lengthwise axis of the
line. Instead of distribution plates, a pre-drilled bar in galvanised
sheet iron is used for all the fastening lines, not only for those at
the base of the vertical elements.
To protect the integrity of the waterproof membrane in case of
damage caused by pedestrian traffic or continuous pressure
caused by overloads, with this fastening system, you always need
to insert the FLAG ANTI-PUNCTURING JOINT at the junction
between two adjacent bars.
This system enables the contractor to lay the waterproofing
membranes on the roof and weld them together using a 5 cm
standard overlap.
Once in position the bars are fixed at pre-determined centres,
using appropriate screws, securing the membrane in place.
Once in place the bars are overlaid with a welded strip of
membrane.
The design must provide adequate drainage between the fixing
lines to allow free flow of rainwater to down-pipes and channels.
In order to prevent wind moving or damaging the membrane
during the installation, this operation must be carried out during
the laying of the membrane.
Provide adequate drains between the fixing lines to allow the
outflow of rainwater to down pipes and channels.

1 cm
 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

[Link]. Induction Welding

FLAGON PVC membranes may be induction welded for new and
roof recovery applications.
Induction welded FLAGON PVC membranes are polyester
reinforced.
The induction welding tool, fasteners and the induction welding
stress plates must be approved together for use with the specified
FLAGON PVC membrane.
The fasteners and stress plates are secured to the roof deck,
then the FLAGON PVC field membrane is unrolled over the stress
plates and induction welded to the plates.
Refer to the fastener manufacturer’s installation instructions and
induction welding tool operating instructions. Refer to the safety
data sheets and product data sheets for additional information.

Preparation:
Thoroughly insptect all roof decks, wall substrates, nailers and
other conditions at membrane terminations, transitions and
penetrations.
Ensure the roof deck and all other substrate conditions are
acceptable to install the appropriate fasteners.
Test the induction welding equipment by welding a sample of PVC
to stress plates, ensuring settings are satisfactory. Allow the plate
to cool and attempt to pull the PVC sample from the stress plates.
For a satisfactory welded plate, the PVC should delaminate.

31
Application:
Install fasteners and stress plates as required for wind uplift
requirements.
Fasten the roofing area that is to be induction welded to all plates
on the same day.
Avoid locating membrane side and end laps over the stress plates.
Refer to the induction welding tool operating instructions where
multiple layers of membrane at seams require induction welding.
Clean side and end laps as necessary before welding seams.
Remove all membrane wrinkles and hot air weld all laps.
Ensure the induction welding plates and bottom surface of the
PVC membrane are dry and free of condensation before beginning
induction welding.
Locate each stress plate beneath the PVC membrane. Center
the induction welder over each plate and activate the induction
welding tool. Do not move the induction welder during the
induction welding cycle.
Once the weld is complete, IMMEDIATELY place a specialised
magnet directly over each plate. Allow the magnets to remain in
place until the plates have cooled.
If there are any concerns about improper installation of induction
welds, inspect the membrane attachment using a suction plate or
plunger.
Fasten the perimeter of the membrane with suitable fasteners
and seam plates to the deck or vertical surface at the base of
the upstand, where the sheet terminates at roof edges, walls and
curbs.
 INSULATION
INSTALLATION
METHODS
3.0. INSULATION INSTALLATION METHODS
The insulation technologies offered by SOPREMA help maintain
a comfortable temperature inside buildings while increasing their
energy efficiency.

SOPREMA offers different types of roof insulation. The choice

of insulation and its installation method is based on the
characteristics and limitations of each one.

Insulation panels made of polyisocyanurate foam and rock fibres

are used in self-protected sheet membrane systems (conventional)
and extruded polystyrene insulation boards are generally used in
protected membrane roof systems (inverted).

3.1. GENERAL INFORMATION

Insulation boards are installed in staggered rows. If the installation
of the insulation boards can’t be completed the same day, the site
organisation must allow staggered installation to resume.
When upstands are insulated from the outside, use a cover panel
before installing the membrane.
When the insulation boards are mechanically fastened, use screws
and plates specially designed for insulation.

3.2. STORAGE
The insulation boards are typically protected by a plastic film for
handling and transportation. However, this film does not provide
adequate protection for long-term storage on a worksite.
To limit the storage period on site, schedule delivery shortly before
the board installation date.
Follow these precautions when on-site storage is required (on the
ground or the roof):
 Store pallets flat on a finished surface (gravel, pavement,
concrete, etc.) rather than on a surface that can remain wet
(grass, soil, etc.), and ensure they are elevated by at least 75
mm.
 Cover the pallets with waterproof tarps and shelter them from
the wind.
 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

3.3. POLYISOCYANURATE BOARDS (SOPRA-ISO)

Polyisocyanurate boards are offered
with organic facers reinforced
with glass fibers or with polymers
coated glass fibers facers or alu foil
facers like SOPRA-ISO.

3.3.1. Limitations
Polyisocyanurate boards of 1.2 m × 2.4 m must not be bonded
with adhesive.
Where the sheet is mechanically fastened, mechanical
fasteners must be installed on the insulation board using a
minimum of four fasteners for each 1.2 m × 1.2 m panel and six
fasteners for each 1.2 m × 2.4 m panel. More fasteners may
be required depending on the wind-resistance.

3.3.2. Installation Methods

 Mechanically fastened with screws and plates designed
for insulation.
 Bonded with DUOTACK or DUOTACK 365 adhesives.

3.4. ROCKWOOL BOARDS (SOPRAROCK)

Rockwool boards are available
in high and low density. For
roofing applications, high density
board are recommended to alow
maintenance traffic.

3.4.1. Limitations
The only way to install an element on an rockwool panel is
to mechanically attach it. As a result, the rockwool panel is
fastened at the same time.

3.4.2. Installation Methods

 Mechanically fastened with screws and plates designed
for insulation.
 Bonded with hot bitumen.
 Bonded with DUOTACK or DUOTACK 365 adhesives.
 Loose laid.

35
 3.5. EXTRUDED POLYSTYRENE BOARDS (SOPRA-XPS)

3.5.1. Limitations
Extruded polystyrene boards must be covered with a
polyisocyanurate or mineral fibres (rockwool) board of a
minimum thickness of 50 mm. This rule does not apply to the
use of extruded polystyrene on an inverted roof system.
The cold-applied adhesives that contain solvents can
damage polystyrene insulation. SOPREMA therefore does
not recommend using a system with membranes bonded
with this type of adhesive if the roofing system includes
polystyrene insulation. This includes protected membrane
roofing systems.
Do not install extruded polystyrene boards if they can’t be
covered the same day.

3.5.2. Installation Methods

 Mechanically fastened with screws and plates designed for
insulation.
 Bonded with DUOTACK adhesives.
 Loose laid.
Install a separation layer before installing the FLAGON PVC
membrane. On inverted roofs, the separation layer will be installed
after the FLAGON PVC membrane.
When a polystyrene board is used on a protected membranes roof,
it is installed loose laid on the roof. The ballast placed on the roof
keeps the boards in place. Install a filter cloth or an open-diffusion
drainage board over the polystyrene panels.
SUPPORT PANELS
INSTALLATION
METHODS
4.0. SUPPORT PANELS INSTALLATION METHODS
Support panels are used in most roofing systems with bonded
membranes. They provide additional stability to the roof system
as well as better resistance to fire, hail, wind, mildew, and
compression depending on the type of panel. It is therefore
important to choose the right support panel according to the
needs and requirements of the project.

4.0.1 Limitations
Support panels must be quickly covered after their installation
and can’t be left exposed to the weather.
Support panels are installed in staggered rows. If the panel
installation can’t be completed the same day, the site
organisation must allow staggered installation to resume.

4.0.2. Storage
Some support panels are protected by a plastic film for handling
and transportation. However, this film does not provide adequate
protection for long-term storage on a worksite.
To limit the storage period on site, schedule delivery shortly before
the installation date of the support panels.
Respect the following precautions when on-site storage is
required (on the ground or the roof):
 Store pallets flat on a finished surface (gravel, pavement,
concrete, etc.) rather than on a surface that can remain wet
(grass, soil, etc.), and ensure they are elevated by at least
75 mm.
 Cover the pallets with waterproof tarps and shelter them
from the wind.

4.1. HIGH-DENSITY POLYISOCYANURATE BOARDS

4.1.1. Installation Methods
 Mechanically fastened
with screws and plates
designed for insulation.
 Bonded with DUOTACK
adhesive.

4.2. WOOD FIBRE

4.2.1. Installation Methods
 Mechanically fastened
with screws and plates
designed for insulation.
 Bonded with DUOTACK
adhesive.
 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

4.3. PERLITE
 Mechanically fastened with screws and plates designed for
insulation.

39
ACCESSORIES
 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

5.0. ACCESSORIES
FLAGON PVC roofing systems offer a wide range of hot air
weldable accessories, such as vents, outlets, scuppers, and
internal and external corners. These help enhance the installation
process by reducing the required time.

Note: In order to comply with the SOPREMA Warranty, SOPREMA

accessories must be installed.

DRAINI dropper

Flag metal termination profile

Decorative profile Soprasolar pedestal

41
DETAILS
6.0. DETAILS
6.1. SC1 – Welding Schemat 44

6.2. UP1 - Upstand with pressure seal termination strip 45

6.3. UP2 – Upstand with roof edge termination profile 46

6.4. UP3 – Upstand with metal capping termination 47

6.5. DR1 – Drain detail 48

6.6. FR1 – Flat roof edge termination 49

6.7. MJ1 – Movement joint detail 50

6.8. UP4 – Upstand termination at door 51

6.9. UP5 – Upstand with total insulation encapsulation 52

6.10. TP1 – Technical penetration detail on warm roof 53

6.11. UP6 – Upstand termination with chase termination 54

6.12. UP7 – Upstand warm roof termination under capping 55

6.13. UP8 – Over flow termination 56

6.14. GRUP1 – Upstand termination detail on green roof 57

6.15. GRUP2 – Upstand termination on warm roof with greenery 58

6.16. SS1 – SOPRASOLAR pedestal detail 59

6.1. SC1 - WELDING SCHEMAT
 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

6.2. UP1 - UPSTAND WITH PRESSURE SEAL TERMINATION STRIP

45
6.3. UP2 - UPSTAND WITH ROOF EDGE TERMINATION PROFILE
 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

6.4. UP3 - UPSTAND WITH METAL CAPPING TERMINATION

47
6.5. DR1 - DRAIN DETAIL
 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

6.6. FR1 - FLAT ROOF EDGE TERMINATION

49
6.7. MJ1 - MOVEMENT JOINT DETAIL
 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

6.8. UP4 - UPSTAND TERMINATION AT DOOR

51
6.9. UP5 - UPSTAND WITH TOTAL INSULATION ENCAPSULATION
 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

6.10. TP1 - TECHNICAL PENETRATION DETAIL ON WARM ROOF

53
6.11. UP6 - UPSTAND TERMINATION WITH CHASE TERMINATION
 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

6.12. UP7 - UPSTAND WARM ROOF TERMINATION UNDER CAPPING

55
6.13. UP8 - OVER FLOW TERMINATION
 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

6.14. GRUP1 - UPSTAND TERMINATION DETAIL ON GREEN ROOF

57
6.15. GRUP2 - UPSTAND TERMINATION ON WARM ROOF WITH GREENERY
 2023 PVC ROOFER’S GUIDE

6.16. SS1 - SOPRASOLAR PEDESTAL DETAIL

59
 INNOVATION SINCE 1908
SOPREMA has developed around the idea that the quality, durability and
reliability of materials must match builders’ ambitions and expectations.
For more than 100 years, SOPREMA has been using its expertise to
develop a variety of high-end products that meet or exceed all the
requirements of the construction field.

ROOFS WALLS FOUNDATIONS PARKING DECKS BRIDGES ADDITIONAL EXPERTISE

V1_ANZ_PVC_Roofers Guide_01012023

WATERPROOFING INSULATION VEGETATIVE SOUNDPROOFING ACCESSORY

SOLUTIONS PRODUCTS

SOPREMA is an international manufacturer specialising in the

production of waterproofing and insulation products, as well as
vegetative and soundproofing solutions, for the building and
civil engineering sectors.

INFO@[Link] [Link]