New whitepaper explores how to improve fire performance in the fifth façade
With roofs maintaining their prominent role in contemporary building design, ROCKWOOL has released a new whitepaper exploring how roofing contractors and specifiers can manage fire risk when planning and installing flat roofs.
The ‘Flat Roofs: Managing fire risk in the fifth façade’ report addresses misconceptions around testing protocols and material fire classification ratings, plus examines the worrying rise in roof fires and the resulting social and economic impact. The whitepaper, which is available to download at www.rockwool.co.uk/fifthfacade then outlines specification best practice for flat roof insulation and how to futureproof the complete building envelope in line with expected changes to Building Regulations.
“The role of the roof is an expanding one,” explains Paul Barrett, Head of Product Management at ROCKWOOL. “While previously their primary function was practical, now we’re seeing roof spaces used as an additional communal or leisure space, as well as to house solar PV, plant equipment and rainwater management systems. Yet as the function of the roof has expanded, the focus on fire protection measures hasn’t increased at the same pace.
“This report explores the risks of exposed flat roofs, delves into the effects of recent prominent fires, and then advises roofing contractors and specifiers on how to select materials that will help protect lives and the remaining building structure in case of fire. It’s an essential read for anyone involved in roofing specification.”
To complement its new whitepaper, ROCKWOOL has also developed an accompanying CPD module that expands subjects detailed in the report and delivers a greater depth of education. The module also outlines its range of non-combustible stone wool insulation products that are compatible with a variety of modern flat roof systems.