CPD TO ARCHITECTS – THE TOP FIVE

Jim’s Jotter – CPD TO ARCHITECTS – THE TOP FIVE

The SPRA seminar ‘Single ply roofing- Achieving high performance with minimum risk’ is classed as Core Curriculum by RIBA. And rightly so, as it covers critical design and selection issues for single ply membrane roofing from the level of the total system to the requirements for individual components.

This best practice seminar has been offered for almost fifteen years, during which it has reached several hundred practices. As RIBA-CPD registered SPRA Membrane manufacturers and Associates will attest, the service is costly to resource and so we are careful to visit newer practices, with young, innovative teams who may be relatively new to the technology but whose prospects are good.  This year, we are also contributing to RIBA-organised multi-session events in Durham and London, which will be repeated elsewhere if cost-effective. As the range, depth and quality of SPRA’s freely downloadable technical literature increases, demand has reduced, enabling us to focus on where we can be most effective.

This service doesn’t duplicate the presentations available from members; it complements them by offering independent, unbiased advice on how to select products effectively. It’s clear from the feedback that attendees value this approach, even those who have had manufacturer seminars beforehand. So what are the most common questions that come up?

How can I specify to achieve a smooth appearance?
There’s a growing awareness of the effect of uneven staining and ruckling of membranes on customer satisfaction, especially in bespoke private residential and larger apartment block developments. SPRA advice: clearly define requirements and expectations then make sure the membrane manufacturer offers photography of similar specifications, after weathering.

• Is single ply sustainable?

SPRA advice: BRE Green Guide 2008 is still current and relevant. Use this to show that single ply systems can achieve the highest (A+) rating in warm roofs on timber and steel decks in all construction sectors. Also consider that service life and the ability to separate and recycle/reprocess at end-of-life are important determinants of sustainability.

• How should I select the single ply membrane and how can my specification be defended against value engineering?

SPRA advice: in consultation with your client, list all the performance requirements (e.g. appearance and durability) and prioritize them. Use the ‘SPRA Supply chain evaluation checklist’ to defend the SPRA product, paying particular attention to non-technical features such as training programme, training card controls etc.

• What’s the difference between a SPRA Contractor and a membrane manufacturer’s own registered contractor?

SPRA advice: SPRA Contractors are subject to regular audit of compliance with SPRA rules, which include membership of a Safety Systems in Procurement (SSIP) and to commit to train their staff to NVQ level 2 standards.

• Does mechanical fastening reduce the performance of the vapour control layer?

SPRA advice: extensive research has shown that all low and medium internal humidity design environments, the compression and (for some product types) self-sealing of the membrane at fastener points controls moisture vapour transmission. High humidity environments such as swimming pools require special measures.