Application of bitumen in building

Bitumen serves as a versatile adhesive with numerous applications in various industries, particularly in construction. Its primary role is as an essential component in asphalt, which is crucial for road construction, landfill sealing, and hydraulic engineering projects. Additionally, bitumen is widely used in the production of roofing and waterproof membranes, providing effective protection for flat roofs and building waterproofing.

Beyond construction, bitumen offers thermal insulation and sound-absorbing properties, making it valuable in reducing footstep noise beneath floor coverings. Special tar mats in cars and elevators also utilize bitumen for sound insulation. Furthermore, due to its low electrical conductivity, bitumen serves as an insulating material for electrical cables. It finds applications in the paper industry and the manufacturing of paints and varnishes as well. The potential uses of bitumen are virtually limitless. From an ecological perspective, bitumen is highly effective due to its long service life.

Now, let's delve into the applications of bitumen in building construction.

Bitumen plays a significant role in sealing flat roofs, traditionally used in classic bitumen roofing membranes. These membranes comprise layers of bitumen sprayed with aggregate, with a carrier fabric made of polyester or glass sandwiched between them. Bitumen sheets exhibit dimensional stability and durability, along with resistance to acids, alkalis, and salts. Polymer bitumen sheets have become the standard for flat roof waterproofing. Moreover, bituminous roofing membranes can be easily recycled. In building protection, bitumen is crucial for sealing walls.

The sale of bitumen ranks among the top-selling products in the construction industry. Iran, as a major producer of bitumen, exports a significant percentage to other countries.

In residential construction, thick coatings of plastic-modified bitumen (KMB) are commonly employed. These coatings have been competing with bitumen-free FPD seals in recent years. FPD products offer easier application compared to thick bituminous coatings, and they are particularly advantageous in terms of faster repairs.

Other applications of bitumen in construction include:

1. Roofing and Roof Waterproofing:

Bitumen finds extensive use in insulating roofs and rooftops to prevent water and moisture infiltration. It serves as a protective barrier, ensuring that water does not penetrate the structure. For areas such as kitchens with high water usage, applying a layer of bitumen before installing ceramic tiles is essential to avoid potential issues.

2. Bathroom and Toilet Sealing:

In areas prone to constant moisture exposure, such as bathrooms and toilets, it is crucial to seal the tile coverings with bitumen. This prevents water from seeping through and causing damage to the underlying structures.

3. Floor and Wall Insulation:

Bitumen insulation is a widely utilized technique for waterproofing floors and walls. Its chemical and physical properties make it highly effective in preventing water penetration into components in contact with the ground, including floorboards and walls. It can be applied horizontally and vertically, serving as a durable and easily processed waterproofing solution.

These applications highlight the versatility of bitumen in providing effective waterproofing and protection in various areas of construction, ensuring the longevity and durability of structures.

What factors should be considered before using bitumen?

1. Surface Preparation: Prior to applying bitumen, the surface must be thoroughly prepared. It should be dry, free from grease, frost, and clean. Even the presence of small contaminants like dust or dirt can hinder the adhesion of the bitumen coating and compromise the effectiveness of the seal. Additionally, any old coatings that are incompatible with bitumen should be removed. In some cases, older buildings may have been treated with bituminous paints, which do not provide a suitable surface for certain bitumen products. If an old bitumen coating remains on the surface, specific conditions need to be evaluated. Cracks and uneven areas should be repaired beforehand using appropriate materials like repair mortar or leveling compounds.
2. Additional Preparatory Measures: Additional measures can be taken to enhance the effectiveness of the bitumen application. These may include using a layer of synthetic resin on porous substrates, spreading or filling sealing slurry. Sealing slurry is a waterproof mixture of cement and plastic that allows for water vapor permeability. It offers the advantage of adhering well to old bituminous coatings, providing an ideal substrate for a thick layer of new bitumen coating.

By ensuring proper surface preparation and considering any additional preparatory measures, the adhesion and effectiveness of the bitumen application can be optimized, resulting in a more durable and reliable seal.

Bitumen 80/100 for Roofing and Roof Waterproofing: A Reliable Solution

Bitumen 80/100, a semi-soft grade of bitumen, is a vital component in safeguarding roofs against the elements. Its exceptional properties make it an invaluable material for both waterproofing and adhering various roofing components.

Advantages of Bitumen 80/100:

Here are the reasons why Bitumen 80/100 stands out in this field:

1. Waterproofing Capability: Its viscous nature forms a watertight barrier, effectively preventing leaks and shielding the underlying roof structure from moisture damage.
2. Flexibility and Adhesion: It easily conforms to different roof shapes and strongly adheres to various materials like concrete, metal, and asphalt felt, creating a seamless and durable waterproof layer.
3. Temperature Resilience: It performs well in both hot and cold climates, remaining pliable under the sun and crack-resistant in freezing temperatures.
4. Cost-Effectiveness: Bitumen 80/100 offers excellent value for money compared to other roofing materials, making it a budget-friendly choice.

Applications of Bitumen 80/100 in Roofing:

Bitumen 80/100 finds wide-ranging use in various roofing applications:

1. Built-up Roof (BUR) Systems: Multiple layers of bitumen and roofing felt are hot-mopped together to create a highly waterproof, multi-layered roof.
2. Modified Bitumen Roofing: Polymers are added to Bitumen 80/100, enhancing its flexibility and facilitating installation in cold weather. This type of roofing is often employed for low-slope roofs.
3. Flashing and Sealing: Bitumen 80/100 is utilized to seal critical areas around chimneys, vents, and roof penetrations, effectively preventing water infiltration.
4. Adhesive for Shingles and Membranes: It acts as a robust adhesive for asphalt shingles and other roofing membranes, securely fastening them to the underlying roof deck.

Points to Consider:

While Bitumen 80/100 offers numerous benefits, it's important to keep the following in mind:

1. Professional Installation: Proper application by trained professionals is essential to ensure optimal performance and prevent leaks.
2. Environmental Considerations: Bitumen is derived from petroleum, raising environmental concerns. Sustainable alternatives are being explored to address these issues.
3. Maintenance: Bitumen roofs require periodic inspections and maintenance to ensure long-term performance.

In conclusion, Bitumen 80/100 remains a reliable and cost-effective solution for effective roof waterproofing and adhesion. Its versatility and adaptability make it a valuable material for various roofing applications. However, responsible sourcing and proper installation are crucial to ensure its long-lasting benefits while minimizing environmental impact.

I hope this information provides a comprehensive overview of Bitumen 80/100 in the context of roofing and roof waterproofing. Please let me know if you have any further questions.

ATDM CO is a manufacturer and exporter of Bitumen 60/70, offering three different quality grades available in drums, bags, and bulk quantities. Our products are classified into premium, second, and third types, each with varying production costs and facilities. We provide a wide range of options to accommodate different customer needs and volume requirements.