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Work sequence

Roof work sequence

Roof work is a water-control system, not only a finish. The correct sequence protects slope, membrane continuity, flashings, drains and overflow before leaks become interior damage.

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Connected product pages

This sequence is connected to the stage calculator, checklist and mistake-cost pages so planning, execution and cost risk stay in one system.

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Recommended sequence of work

01

Prepare roof base and falls

Give water a reliable path before waterproofing starts.

  • Clean the roof base and remove laitance, dust and loose material.
  • Set out falls to primary drains, scuppers and overflow points.
  • Confirm upstands, parapet heights and equipment plinths.

Hold point: Waterproofing should not begin until falls, low points and drain locations are visible and checked.

Tools, equipment and access: Laser level, Straightedge, Screed tools, Drain templates

02

Install membrane, flashings and terminations

Create continuous waterproofing around edges, penetrations and vertical faces.

  • Prime the base and install membrane or liquid system to supplier requirements.
  • Reinforce corners, outlets, penetrations, parapets and movement joints.
  • Protect membrane before other trades return to the roof.

Hold point: No covering layer or equipment installation should proceed until membrane continuity and flashings are inspected.

Tools, equipment and access: Primer roller, Membrane tools, Detail brushes, Heat gun or torch

03

Test drainage, overflow and protection

Prove the roof can remove water before interior finishes are exposed.

  • Check drain strainers, overflow routes and downpipe continuity.
  • Run ponding or controlled water test where appropriate.
  • Install protection layer and record hidden details.

Hold point: Interior ceiling closure should wait until roof drainage and waterproofing evidence are complete.

Tools, equipment and access: Water hose, Drain camera if needed, Moisture meter, Photo log

Tools, equipment and access

Level and slope control

  • Laser level
  • Straightedge
  • Drain templates
  • Screed tools

Waterproofing

  • Primer rollers
  • Detail brushes
  • Membrane tools
  • Protection board knife

Testing

  • Water hose
  • Stopper
  • Moisture meter
  • Inspection camera

Planning material consumption norms

Consumption ranges are planning benchmarks. Final quantities must be checked against drawings, specifications, local codes and supplier data sheets.

Material or resource Basis Planning range Unit Planning note
Falls buildup Roof area 0.03-0.08 m3/m2 Planning range before detailed slope drawing.
Roof membrane waste and laps Waterproofed area 10-20 % Higher for corners and penetrations.
Primer Roof substrate 0.15-0.30 kg/m2 Supplier data sheet governs final quantity.
Protection layer Roof membrane area 1.05-1.15 m2/m2 Allows cuts and edge detailing.

Quality gates before moving forward

Related glossary terms

Roof slope

Planned roof gradient for reliable water runoff.

Movement joint

Joint detail allowing controlled movement between building elements or finishes.