A roof in PIB, the world’s oldest and most sustainable single ply membrane, has stayed in perfect condition for over 50 years on a building in Germany.

What is thought to be the oldest fully functional roof with a full-sized synthetic waterproofing was discovered in Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen in 2005. Dating back more than 50 years then, the water treatment building was used for the temporary storage of drinking water which supplied the adjacent housing estate in peak times.

A roof that could leak untreated rainwater into the village’s drinking supply was unthinkable and so the best membrane available in 1955 – Prewanol PIB – was originally chosen.

Today, its successor Rhepanol is proven to be the oldest and most environmentally friendly single ply in the world. It is the only membrane with a unique Life Cycle Assessment and meets DIN EN ISO 14040 part ff.

Fifteen years ago, the village water treatment building was superseded by a new larger plant room and so was left unused for a whole decade. On examination in 2005, the roof did not show any significant damage and even the detailing to two integrated roof vents remained defect free.

As manufacturers of PIB-based membranes, Prewanol and Rhepanol fk, FDT invited State Material Testing Institute (MPA) of Darmstadt to undertake an independent analysis of the membrane’s integrity including the welded seams. The results confirmed that the roof was still fully waterproof and performing well, and provide conclusive proof that product in situ after 50 years is eminently more convincing than standard laboratory ageing procedures.

Today, the Rhepanol range of membranes, which are suitable for new build, over roofing, green roofs and under photovoltaic panels, is only available in the UK from SIG Design & Technology and can only be installed by their trained and licensed contractors who are members of DATAC.

Call 01509 505714 or visit www.singleply.co.uk

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Photocaption

A roof in PIB, the world’s oldest and most sustainable single ply membrane has stayed in perfect condition for over 50 years on a building in Germany.

Media contact: Julia Smith Aura PR  Tel : 01636 611 774  Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Notes to Editors

• SIG Design & Technology designs, supplies and guarantees exclusive 21^st century roofing solutions. Their experienced technical team works in partnership with clients, and using especially manufactured, comprehensive product portfolio, provides unique solutions.
• Every component is carefully tested and selected for its sustainability, functionality, longevity and/or aesthetic strengths to guarantee total roofing solutions from inspiration to installation.
• The DATAC Accredited Contractor scheme was launched in autumn 2009.