Non-fragile MODEK GRP (Walk

Non-fragile MODEK GRP (Walk - On™)

Construction of the roof is one of the most hazardous operations because of the potential falls or material dropping onto people below, and often access is required long-after construction has been completed, which is why Modek chose to launch a range of non-fragile roof sheets, called “Walk-on™ ” GRP. The product was featured in the September issue of SA Roofing. The new range of product formulations and colours recently launched for the industrial market, offers improved clarity, higher impact resistance and has an extended life expectancy. The range has also been designed in accordance with the new SANS building regulations, to guarantee higher safety and quality standards. The GRP (glass reinforced polyester) products are specifically designed to withstand the harsh South African climatic conditions, and have an extended life expectancy; with the proper maintenance the shape won’t change nor will the sheeting collapse under human weight. As a nonfragile product the new formula also has the added benefit of being able to support a person without requiring a metal framework supporting the sheeting.

The new Industrial GRP sheeting also promises 15 years retention of at least 80% clarity, meaning that radiation degradation is kept at bay, which is especially useful for structures that require the additional light. The new colours, which will be added to the existing colour range, are grey, bronze and ice.

Why choose a Non-fragile Roof Sheet?

Many rooflights and metal lining panels are considered to be fragile relative to metal roof sheeting, a fact that all discerning building designers and contractors should take into account when designing access routes for ongoing maintenance of a building or when planning a building project.

Determining the period of non-fragility required

Construction of the roof is one of the most hazardous operations because of the potential falls ormaterial dropping onto people below. Therefore a roofing contractor should plan and document a safe system of work before starting construction, taking into account the fragility of cladding and rooflighting systems. MODEK identifies three different types of roofing in terms of the guidelines set out by NARM (British) Red Book (ACR[M]001:2005):

Match your fixings and rooflights with the performance of the roof

Long-term non-fragility of a rooflight assembly is highly dependent on the long-term durability and performance of all associated components: if these degrade, then the rooflight assembly may become fragile. As such, all components in the roof assembly must be carefully considered to achieve the desired performance.