1. Proven track record for Durability.
Mastic Asphalt is without question the toughest and most durable waterproof membrane available to architects, building owners and other key specifiers. It offers market leading longevity in excess of 50 years because of its inherent strength and durability. It has been used on many high profile projects throughout the UK particularly in design situations where sustained traffic is likely. The material easily out performs all other types of waterproof membrane which is why it is extensively used on bridges, car parks and other types of structural decks. For many architects it is also the first choice for waterproofing beneath green roof installations and unlike many other membranes, in the highly unlikely event of damage, mastic asphalt can be easily repaired.
2. Ideal for Roof Gardens.
Mastic asphalt is widely considered to be the most reliable waterproofing system available for green roofing projects and unlike other types of membrane, the material has a long and proven track record in this market place. It has been successfully used on green roof projects for over 80 years. Its seamless application ensures that plant roots are unable to penetrate vulnerable areas such as joints and seams used in the application of other types of membrane. Matched by its inherent strength and durability together with its built-in green qualities, mastic asphalt can be the only choice for green roof projects – particularly in design situations that may attract foot or vehicular traffic.
3. Carbon Zone.
Mastic asphalt was the first industry in the world to achieve the CarbonZero status. MAC’s 100 independent contractors, hauliers, installers and manufacturers have wherever possible reduced their carbon emissions and use of energy. The remainder has been offset with environment friendly energy saving schemes in the third world. It means that any project receiving the waterproofing benefits of an advanced mastic asphalt system will get a 100% CO2 neutral solution.
4. Fire Performance.
The high mineral content of mastic asphalt renders it virtually incombustible. Mastic asphalt fulfils all the external fire resistance required for a roof covering and achieves the highest rating (p60) – now (aa) – when tested in accordance with BS.1476 part 3:1975. It has also been tested in accordance with draft European standards prEN1187-1 and prEN1187-2. No significant spread of flame was observed and no flame penetration occurred. Mastic asphalt systems also have LPCP accreditation for fire safety.
5. Flame Free Application.
Because Mastic Asphalt is laid in molten form it is frequently confused with other types of membrane that require naked flame or torch on application. For major projects the material is usually taken to site by hot charge tankers direct from the manufacturer and taken to the point where it is needed for rapid installation - a major advantage for contracts with critical time constraints. For smaller projects solid blocks are preheated in boilers placed at ground level. At no time is there any type of naked flame at the point of installation and because mastic asphalt is so highly flame resistant, there is little or no potential of fire risk.
6. Installed by Trained Craftsmen.
The mastic asphalt craft is taught by professional tutors and the traditional time-served apprenticeship is now incorporated into national vocational qualifications.
7. Recyclable.
Mastic Asphalt is so durable over long periods that it is considered by construction professionals to have little or low impact on the environment. At the end of its useful life, mastic asphalt is 100% recyclable or can be used in mastic asphalt screeds etc., making it the ideal environment friendly option.
8. Best Value for Money.
According to independent studies (60 year life-cycle costings) mastic asphalt roofing has proven to be the most cost-effective waterproofing material (savings of approximately 10-15 per cent on alternative systems).
9. Attractive Finish.
Mastic asphalt roofing provides the base for numerous attractive roof finishes: i.e. roof gardens, inverted roofs with stone, slab or timber decking finishes and, of course, roof tiles and reflective coatings. The material’s unique flooring qualities lends itself to both domestic and commercial specifications for damproofing and wearing or underlay materials. The option of coloured mastic asphalt flooring and the newly designed polished stone finish (terrazzo) make it the designer’s and architect’s dream – solving two issue in one (damproofing and floor finish).
10. Scope of Use.
Mastic asphalt has been successfully used to provide unbeatable protection from water penetration for centuries. In recent years the material has been reformulated to include advanced polymers for increased durability, combining its traditional strengths with modern technology. Not simply a roofing material, it is used in various applications, including walkways and roads. It is highly resistant to all types of weather situation and attacks from thermal shock (rapid temperature changes), which are a frequent source of break down in many other types of membrane. Its durability and seamless application means that it is one of the few membranes able to handle consistent heavy foot and vehicular traffic, including from Heavy Goods Vehicles, and still maintain its waterproof integrity. It is also easy to repair should alterations or damage occur.
