What Are Warm Roofs?

Warm roofs are a type of membrane roofing in which an insulation layer is installed on top of a flat roof structure. This layer is installed above the rafters and below its weather-proof membrane. As a result, a warm roof system can maintain and restrict heat inside a building without needing a ventilation system. This makes it a commonly accepted membrane roofing solution in cold climate regions.

The vapourvapour-control barrier between the roof substrate and the thermal insulation provides resistance against harsh climates. However, the thickness of the warm roof insulation needs to be decided during the planning of the project. 

Advantages Of Installing A Warm Roof System?

Some owners might not prefer to insulate their roofs. However, certain benefits make it necessary:

Reduces Carbon Footprint

Since it makes the house more energy-efficient, it is an excellent investment for domestic, industrial, and commercial properties, mainly if applied under green roofs. 

As a result, it can lower the building’s carbon footprint and cause a significant decrease in bills. 

Preserves Temperature

People install warm roof insulation in their homes to make it thermally efficient, in turn making it cost-effective. 

This roof solution is adequately engineered to keep a space insulated and warm. Therefore, it is highly effective for the temperature regulation of the building.

In addition, it will keep the house cold in summers and warm in winters. These roofs are also durable as they are unfazed by exposure to cold, heat, and moisture. 

Manage Acoustics

Besides maintaining the temperature, a warm roof also has an acoustic characteristic. It can reduce loud sounds by absorbing them.

Blocking outside noises from harsh weather conditions or urban life is necessary for a tranquil living atmosphere. 

Fire Safety

A warm roof can also potentially provide fire protection as it can stand 1000°C. Moreover, insulation solutions such as EPDM Membranes can even provide UV resistance.  

Building Regulations And Usage

Residential properties in New Zealand must have the right amount of insulation. Hence, it becomes important for homeowners and construction workers to have the optimum level of thermal resistance for their location

In contrast, non-residential applications are easier to pull off and require less elbow grease. However, in either case, warm roofing can be used in multiple ways:

Pitched Roof

As a pitched roof, warm roof insulation has more effect. Firstly, pitched roofs offer more room to place fixtures and experiment with designs. Secondly, they tend to last longer than flat applications. Lastly, pitched-style roofing allows more space to add insulation, allowing more heat-trapping capabilities.  

Flat Roof

A warm flat roof is the easiest way to insulate a space. It requires the least architectural work, money, time, and effort to install. Furthermore, it allows homeowners to utilize the space for other purposes.

Installation And Roof Layering?

Here is an in-depth look at how warm roofs are installed:

Step 1

When constructing a warm roof, the first thing to remember is that the thermal protection layer must be situated over the structural decking. This helps bring consistency in the temperature of the inside of the building. 

Step 2

Next, a vapor-control layer must go underneath the insulation to block moisture from penetrating the insulation. 

Step 3

Finally, the waterproofing layers are set on the insulation to confine it entirely. As an aside, if the goal is to shut the insides off completely, it may be beneficial to install butyl rubber membranes.

Step-By-Step Layering

Here is how the installation of a warm roof system is structured:

• Waterproofing (such as Torch-on Membranes)
• Rigid Insulation
• Vapour Control Layer
• Structural Deck
• Roof Void
• Ceiling
• Support Structure 

Factors To Consider 

One significant factor to consider regarding a warm flat roof design is how its components would be protected from weathering. The variables affecting it include:

• Site exposure
• Maximum local wind speeds
• Regional geography

Moreover, when installing a warm roof system, its integral to go through the following questions to determine whether the construction can house the insulation chosen:

• What is the required thermal performance or ‘U’ value of the roof?
• How much can the build-up thickness of a warm roof be accommodated at a certain roof level?
• How much weight can be imposed weight to the deck structure?
• How much compressive strength is required?
• How much and what type of traffic will the roof experience, during and after construction?
• What is the compatibility of the warm roof with other roofing components?
• How much are fire resistance and acoustic performance is required?
• What are the environmental properties of warm roof insulation?

If you need assistance to find the right warm roofs for your home or office, ArchiPro provides a connection to the various professionals, ready to assist with all requirements and questions. Simply click "Contact supplier" on the product's page, or visit the supplier's website directly from the product's page.