The Liquid Roofing and Waterproofing Association (LRWA) has launched a new online training course, The ‘Foundation in Liquid Applied Flat Roofing’, which covers six modules designed to help candidates understand how to design and install liquid-applied membranes, flat roofing and other types of waterproofing such as balconies.
Following funding from the Roofing Industry Alliance, the training course which is hosted on the LRWA’s Online Training Academy, is aimed at all those in the flat roofing industry and is equivalent to around five to six CPD learning hours, which candidates can complete at their own pace over 10 weeks. At the end of each module, is an online assessment to test the candidate’s understanding of each topic.
The first module covers the main types of flat roof construction, and the building materials used for structural decks. Green roof systems are also detailed in this section along with the definitions of a roof terrace and balcony.
Module two introduces the key building regulations and minimum standards that need to be referred to when designing flat roofs.
The different types of liquid-applied membranes are explained in module three as well as an overview of the other materials that can be used in flat roof construction such as insulation and carrier membranes.
Candidates will learn more about the planning stages of flat roofing in module four, while five covers key health and safety considerations.
The final module shows a video demonstrating the installation of different liquid applied membranes, including cold-applied bitumen, polyester, hot melt, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and both single and twin pack polyurethane.
Sarah Spink, chief executive officer of the LRWA, said: “There are now 11 liquid chemistries available in the UK, all with different qualities and designed for a variety of applications. Gaining a better understanding of this diverse market will ensure individuals are better equipped to carry out their role, especially those who are new to the sector.
“Supporting people to enhance their knowledge also aligns with wider changes happening across the construction sector. Post Grenfell, there is a growing need to demonstrate competence when specifying, installing and maintaining construction products across all disciplines.
“In the liquid roofing and waterproofing sector, that means specialist training is not only essential for roofing contractors, but those who work off site and across the entire supply chain.”
The LRWA Foundation in Liquid Applied Flat Roofing is in the process of being certified by the CPD Certification Service and is available to members and non-members. It costs £30 to take part.
