Köster: Sealing Systems for Reliable Roof Protection
Köster, based in Aurich, East Frisia, has been manufacturing products for construction chemicals since 1982 and membranes for roof waterproofing since 1987, as well as products such as TPO since 1997. The company sells worldwide, partly with partners, partly with trading partners, with a focus on Germany and European countries.
Root-resistant polyethylene-based TPO roof waterproofing membranes
TPO roof waterproofing membranes are produced on a polyethylene basis. They are root-resistant, which means they can be used for intensive or extensive green roofs. The seams welded with hot air are also root-resistant. Green roof mats are offered by various partners. As a rule, there is a protective fleece with drainage function under the mats, so a suitable green roof can be applied directly to the waterproofing membrane. In this way, underground parking garage waterproofing can also be greened with a corresponding usable area. The roof waterproofing membranes are available in various widths. When using a 2.10 m wide membrane, for example, there are few welding seams on the surface. In an FLL test, carried out by an external testing institute, the membrane is placed in a container and planted. If the membrane proves to be root-resistant over a period of 2 years, it is deemed to have passed the test and receives the FLL test certificate, which certifies that it is a root-resistant waterproofing membrane and can be marketed as such. The very homogeneous seam welding, thanks to the polyethylene underside and polyethylene top side, makes root resistance possible. A weld of this type shows a small visible emerging weld bead, which indicates a good weld. In addition, the material must not come loose at the seam during a peel test, where roots could penetrate.
White TPO membranes with high radiation value under PV systems
As a result of the Building Energy Act, more and more solar systems are being installed on roofs. This also increases the demand for light-colored roofing membranes with a high degree of reflectivity. Köster has white TPO membranes with a high reflectance value in its portfolio, which can reflect sunlight particularly well. The requirement also depends somewhat on the solar system; not all of them require a lighter-colored roof membrane as is the trend. Another advantage of light-colored waterproofing membranes is that the building underneath does not heat up as quickly. A roof structure must be able to withstand various fire loads. Insulation made of rock wool or polyurethane is used in the underlayer. Which material is used depends on the state building regulations and the location. Structural conditions and the load-bearing surface also play a role. For warehouses and production halls with a trapezoidal surface, rock wool is generally used to protect the building below in the event of a fire. Roofs will be used more in the future. This means that PV roofs for production facilities and warehouses and green roofs for inner-city buildings are the requirements of the present in the face of global warming. If everyone does their bit, even if it is in small steps, we will be on the right track.
