Roofing membranes are often exposed to high temperatures, especially in buildings with metal roofs. Over time, this can significantly reduce their water resistance. A similar effect can occur if the membranes were exposed to direct UV rays for some time during construction. Both factors can reduce the water repellency of the second base layer, which in turn can lead to rotting, mold growth, and other damage. It is therefore important to choose a solution that provides reliable protection against these risks.
Advantages of Tyvek® membranes
Extensive aging tests conducted by DuPont have shown that Tyvek® breathable membranes are superior to multi-layer breathable roof coverings in terms of both UV radiation and high temperature exposure. Tests conducted by the Swedish Technical Research Institute (SP) have determined that Tyvek® membranes provide effective waterproof protection even when exposed to direct UV rays and high temperatures.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation tests
Construction delays or uncovered roofs and walls are exposed to harmful UV rays for long periods of time, which can significantly reduce the water resistance of the roof covering.
Objective: to evaluate the water resistance of Tyvek® breathable membranes after direct exposure to UV radiation.
All films were exposed to direct ultraviolet radiation and then tested for water resistance according to class W1.
Heat resistance tests
Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can compromise the water resistance of conventional multi-layer roof coverings, leading to mold and other problems. Metal roofs heat up particularly quickly, so it is important to carefully evaluate the resistance of materials when choosing long-term solutions.
Objective: to determine how high temperatures (90 °C) affect the water impermeability of Tyvek® membranes.
All films were exposed to a temperature of 90 °C – significantly higher than the 70 °C limit specified in CE standards – and then tested for water resistance according to class W1.
Results: Tyvek® membranes demonstrated excellent resistance and durability, maintaining their water impermeability even at a temperature of 90 °C.
Long-lasting protection and energy efficiency
DuPont has developed Tyvek® products that maintain their protective function even when exposed to intense UV rays and high temperatures. This means that choosing Tyvek® not only increases the energy efficiency of buildings, but also ensures long-term durability and reliable protection.
High-quality functional layer
The secret to the success of Tyvek® membranes lies in their unique structure. The functional layer is 6-8 times thicker than most multi-layer roofing membranes and is made of heat- and UV-resistant polyethylene (PE). This ensures long-term protection and reliability that not all competing products can guarantee.