The roof space is often where the heat is most concentrated and lost in a building as the hot air rises from the floors below. Aside from the significant heat loss, it can also lead to the formation of condensation across the entire roof on the inside caused by the differences in air temperature between the outside and the inside. Installing breather membrane helps to minimise condensation build-up in the roofing installation. If condensation is allowed to form within the roofing, it isn’t long before wood decks become wet and damage sets in.

In the worst cases, uninsulated roofing can be destroyed by wood rot where condensation has been present with no means of escape. Simply installing breather membrane can immediately reduce heat loss by up to 25% and can eliminate thermal bridges at critical points such as eaves and across timbers.

High quality breather membranes help to reduce heat loss across the entire roofing system, whether domestic or commercial. The immediate benefits to this are clear as straightaway, the home gains a better energy rating.

As the moisture in the property is also reduced, this creates a healthier, drier environment and can prolong the lifespan of the roofing. Permavent membranes encompass the latest medical industry technology to encapsulate a high grade hydrophobic film within polypropylene layers. Unlike rival brands, Permavent breather membrane combines a 3-in-1 process to improve the integrity and ultimately quality of the membrane. This single process ensures superior breathability and flexibility over the long term.

All Permavent membranes are certified for use in various types of roofing and walling applications and conform fully with:

• BS 5250: 2011 Code of practice for control of condensation in buildings.
• BS 5534: 2014 Code of practice for slating and tiling.
• BS 8000-6: 1990 Workmanship on building sites.
• BS EN 1991-1-4; 2005 +A1: 2010 +UK NA.
• BS EN 13859: Flexible sheets for underlays.
• BS EN 13501-1 2007.

What about ventilation systems for concrete roofing?

Concrete roofing also needs ventilation across the entire surface. Condensation and moisture are typically always present in some form in a concrete roof, whether old or new. Green (new) concrete should be left to cure for at least three weeks before covering with any kind of membrane.

PermaRoof UK stock accessories to handle condensation and moisture. This type of ventilation system provides an escape route for heavy moisture in concrete roofing. The flat roof aerator sits on top of the bare concrete beneath a waterproofing membrane and insulation. Once membrane is sealed over the base of the aerator, a flue is created to draw the moisture away from the concrete via a series of ribs that encourage the movement of the water vapour.

PermaGroup has established links with some of the biggest names in our industry thanks to our reputation of excellence. Read more about becoming a supplier or stockist here.