Assignment EBIM4103

EBIM4103
MAINTAINABILITY FACILITIES
SEPTEMBER 2019
Open
ROMAZIE MAMAT (709055607002)
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
No. Descriptions Page No.

Question 1
1 Introduction 3
2 Common defects of concrete flat roof 16
3 Factors of affecting concrete flat roof defects 24
4 Suggestion of remidial works for roofing defects 25
5 Conclusions 31
6 References 33
Question 2
1 Introduction 34
2 Components of Green Roof 35
3 Advantages of Green Roof 43
4 Disadvantages of Green Roof 47
5 Conclusions 51
6 References 52
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QUESTION 1
A flat roof is a roof which is almost level in contrast to the many types of sloped roof. The slope
of a roof is properly known as its pitch and flat roof have up to approximately 10°. Flat roof are
an ancient form mostly used in arid climates and allow the roof space to be used as a living space
or a living roof. Flat roof, or "low-slope" roof, are also commonly found on commercial
buildings throughout the world. Flat roofs exist all over the world and each area has its own
tradition or preference for materials used. In warmer climates, where there is less rainfall and
freezing is unlikely to occur, many flat roof are simply built of masonry or concrete and this is
good at keeping out the heat of the sun and cheap and easy to build where timber is not readily
available. In areas where the roof could become saturated by rain and leak, or where water
soaked into the brickwork could freeze to ice and thus lead to 'blowing' (breaking up of the
mortar/brickwork/concrete by the expansion of ice as it forms) these roofs are not suitable. Flat
roofs are characteristic of the Egyptian, Persian, and Arabian styles of architecture.
Any sheet of material used to cover a flat or low-pitched roof is usually known as a membrane
and the primary purpose of these membranes is to waterproof the roof area. Materials that cover
flat roof typically allow the water to run off from a slight inclination or camber into a gutter
system. Water from some flat roof such as on garden sheds sometimes flows freely off the edge
of a roof, though gutter systems are of advantage in keeping both roof and foundations dry.
Gutters on smaller roof often lead water directly onto the ground, or better, into a specially made
soak away. Gutters on larger roof usually lead water into the rainwater drainage system of any
built-up area. Occasionally, however, flat roof is designed to collect water in a pool, usually for
aesthetic purposes, or for rainwater buffering.
Traditionally most flat roof in the western world make use of tar or asphalt more usually felt
paper applied over roof decking to keep a building watertight. The felt paper is in turn covered
with a flood coat of bitumen (asphalt or tar) and then gravel to keep the sun's heat, UV rays and
weather off it and helps protect it from cracking or blistering and degradation. Roof decking is
usually of plywood, chipboard or OSB boards (OSB = Oriented Strand Board, also known
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as Sterling board) of around 18mm thickness, steel or concrete. The mopping of bitumen is
applied in two or more coats (usually 3 or 4) as a hot liquid, heated in a kettle. A flooded coat of
bitumen is applied over the felts and gravel is embedded in the hot bitumen.
A main reason for failure of these traditional roof is ignorance or lack of maintenance where
people or events cause the gravel to be moved or removed from the roof membrane, commonly
called a built-up roof, thus exposing it to weather and sun. Cracking and blistering occur and
eventually water gets in.
Roofing felts are usually a 'paper' or fiber material impregnated in bitumen. As gravel cannot
protect tarpaper surfaces where they rise vertically from the roof such as on parapet roof or
upstands, the felts are usually coated with bitumen and protected by sheet metal flashings.
In some microclimates or shaded areas these rather 'basic' felt roof can last well in relation to the
cost of materials purchase and cost of laying them, however the cost of modern membranes such
as EPDM has come down over recent years to make them more and more affordable. There are
now firms supplying modern alternatives.
If a leak does occur on a flat roof, damage often goes unnoticed for considerable time as water
penetrates and soaks the decking and any insulation and/or structure beneath. This can lead to
expensive damage from the rot which often develops and if left can weaken the roof structure.
There are health risks to people and animals breathing the mound spores: the severity of this
health risk remains a debated point. While the insulation is wet, the “R” value is essentially
destroyed. If dealing with an organic insulation, the most common solution is removing and
replacing the damaged area. If the problem is detected early enough, the insulation may be saved
by repairing the leak, but if it has progressed to creating a sunken area, it may be too late.
One problem with maintaining flat roof is that if water does penetrate the barrier covering (be it
traditional or a modern membrane), it can travel a long way before causing visible damage or
leaking into a building where it can be seen. Thus, it is not easy to find the source of the leak in
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order to repair it. Once underlying roof decking is soaked, it often sags, creating more room for
water to accumulate and further worsening the problem.
Another common reason for failure of flat roof is lack of drain maintenance where gravel, leaves
and debris block water outlets (be they spigots, drains, downpipes or gutters). This causes a
pressure head of water (the deeper the water, the greater the pressure) which can force more
water into the smallest hole or crack. In colder climates, puddling water can freeze, breaking up
the roof surface as the ice expands. It is therefore important to maintain your flat roof to avoid
excessive repair.
An important consideration in tarred flat roof quality is knowing that the common term 'tar'
applies to rather different products: tar or pitch (which is derived from wood resins), coal tar,
asphalt and bitumen. Some of these products appear to have been interchanged in their use and
are sometimes used inappropriately, as each has different characteristics, for example whether or
not the product can soak into wood, its anti-fungal properties and its reaction to exposure to sun,
weather, and varying temperatures.
Modern flat roof can use single large factory-made sheets such as EPDM synthetic rubber, PVC
(polyvinyl chloride), TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) etc. Although usually of excellent quality,
one-piece membranes are called single plies are used today on many large commercial buildings.
Modified bitumen membranes which are widely available in one-meter widths are bonded
together in either hot or cold seaming processes during the fitting process, where labor skill and
training play a large part in determining the quality of roof protection attained. Reasons for not
using one-piece membranes include practicality and cost on all but the smallest of roof it can be
difficult to lift a huge and heavy membrane (a crane or lift is required) and if there is any wind at
all it can be difficult to control and bond the membrane smoothly and properly to the roof.
Detailing of these systems also plays a part in success or failure: In some systems ready-made
details (such as internal and external corners, through-roof pipe flashings, cable or skylight
flashings etc.) are available from the membrane manufacturer and can be well bonded to the
main sheet, whereas with materials such as tar papers this is usually not the case – a fitter has to
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construct these shapes on-site. Success depends largely on their levels of skill, enthusiasm and
training – results can vary hugely.
Metals are also used for flat roof: lead (welded or folded-seamed), tin (folded, soldered or
folded-seamed) or copper. These are often expensive options and vulnerable to being stolen and
sold as scrap metal.
Flat roofs tend to be sensitive to human traffic. Anything which produces a crack or puncture in
the waterproofing membrane can quite readily lead to leaks. Flat roof can fail, for example; when
subsequent work is carried out on the roof, when new through-roof service pipes/cables are
installed or when plant such as air conditioning units are installed. A good roofer should be
called to make sure the roof is left properly watertight before it is left. In trafficked areas, proper
advisory/warning signs should be put up and walkways of rubber matting, wooden or plastic
duck-boarding etc. should be installed to protect the roof membrane. On some membranes, even
stone or concrete paving can be fitted. For one-off works, old carpet or smooth wooden planks
for workers to walk or stand on will usually provide reasonable protection.
Traditionally the smelly, hot, physically demanding and sometimes dangerous work of tarring
flat roof has often meant that uneducated fitters of doubtful reputation have done work to a poor
standard: This together with a lack of regular inspection and maintenance has meant that flat roof
have a poor reputation and there is an unwillingness to retain or to build them, which is
unfortunate, given the potential usefulness of flat areas, the more so with the excellent
performance of modern membranes, many of which come with long warranties and provide an
excellent roof covering.
Protected membrane roof

A protected membrane roof is a roof where thermal insulation or another material is located
above the waterproofing membrane. Modern green roof are a type of protected membrane roof.
This development has been made possible by the creation of waterproofing membrane materials
that are tolerant of supporting a load and the creation of thermal insulation that is not easily
damaged by water. Frequently, rigid panels made of extruded polystyrene are used in PMR
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construction. The chief benefit of PMR roof design is that the covering protects the
waterproofing membrane from thermal shock, ultraviolet light and mechanical damage. [4] One
potential disadvantage of protected membrane roof construction is the need for structural
strength to support the weight of ballast that prevents wind from moving rigid foam panels or the
weight of plants and growth media for a green roof. However, when flat roof are constructed in
temperate climates, the need to support snow load makes additional structural strength a common
consideration in any event.
Protected membrane roof are sometimes referred to in the roofing industry as "IRMA" roof, for
"Inverted Roof Membrane Assembly". "IRMA" as a roofing term is a genericized trademark.
Originally, "IRMA" was a registered trademark of the Dow Chemical Company and stood for
"Insulated Roof Membrane Assembly" and referred to PMR roof assembled using Dow brand
extruded polystyrene insulation.
Green roof
Grass or turf roof have been around since the Viking times if not far earlier and make for a
decorative and durable roof covering. Green roof have been made by depositing topsoil or other
growth media on flat roof and seeding them (or allowing them to self-seed as nature takes its
course). Maintenance in the form of simple visible inspection and removal of larger rooting
plants has allowed these roofs to be successful in that they provide an excellent covering and UV
light barrier for the roof waterproofing membrane. With some systems, the manufacturer requires
that a root barrier membrane be laid above the waterproofing membrane. If well planned and
fitted, the mass of the soil or growth medium can provide a good heat buffer for the building
storing the heat of the sun and releasing it into the building at night and thus keeping inside
temperatures more even. Sudden cold spells are also buffered from the building.
One predicted problem with large green roof is that fire may be able to spread rapidly across
areas of dry grasses and plants when they are dried, for instance, in summer by hot weather:
Various countries are stipulating fire barrier areas made of, for example, wide strips of (partly
decorative) gravel.
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Sedum is emerging as a favorite as it is easily transported and requires little maintenance as it is
a succulent plant which remains close to the ground throughout its growth, has mild roots which
don't damage the waterproofing membrane and changes color in the seasons in greens, browns
and purples to give a pleasing effect to the eye.
Green-roof water buffering

Water run-off and flash floods have become a problem especially in areas where there is a large
amount of paving such as in inner cities: When rain falls (instead of draining into the ground
over a large area as previously) a rainwater system's pipes take water run-off from huge areas of
paving, road surfaces and roof areas – as areas become more and more built up these systems
cope less and less well until even a rain-shower can produce backing up of water from pipes
which can't remove the large water volume and flooding occurs. By buffering rainfall, such as by
fitting green roof, floods can be reduced or avoided: the rain is absorbed into the soil/roof
medium and runs off the roof bit by bit as the roof becomes soaked.
Roof decks
A modern (since the 1960s) development in the construction of decks, including flat roof decks,
especially when used as living area or the roof of a commercial structure is to build a composite
steel deck.
Asphalt
Asphalt is an aliphatic compound and in almost all cases a byproduct of the oil industry. Some
asphalt is manufactured from oil as the intended purpose, and this is limited to high-quality
asphalt produced for longer lasting asphalt built-up roof (BUR). Asphalt ages through photo-
oxidation accelerated by heat. As it ages, the asphalts melt point rises and there is a loss of
plasticizers. As mass is lost, the asphalt shrinks and forms a surface similar to alligator skin.
Asphalt breaks down slowly in water, and the more exposure the more rapid the degradation.
Asphalt also dissolves readily when exposed to oils and some solvents.
There are four types of roofing asphalt. Each type is created by heating and blowing with
oxygen. The longer the process the higher the melt-point of the asphalt. Therefore, Type I asphalt
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has characteristics closest to coal tar and can only be used on dead level surfaces. Type II, is
considered flat and can be applied to surfaces up to 1/4 in 12 slopes. Type III, is considered to be
"steep" asphalt but is limited to slopes up to 2 in 12, and Type IV is "special steep". The
drawback is, the longer it is processed, the shorter the life. Dead level roof where Type I asphalt
was used as the flood and gravel adhesive has performed nearly as well as coal tar. Asphalt roof
are also sustainable by restoring the life cycle by making repairs and recoating with compatible
products. The process can be repeated as necessary at a significant cost savings with very little
impact on the environment.
Asphalt BUR is made up of multiple layers of reinforcing plies and asphalt forming a
redundancy of waterproofing layers. The reflectivity of built up roof depends on the surfacing
material used. Gravel is the most common and they are referred to as asphalt and gravel roof.
Asphalt degradation is a growing concern. UV-rays oxidize the surface of the asphalt and
produce a chalk-like residue. As plasticizers leach out of the asphalt, asphalt built-up roof
become brittle. Cracking and alligatoring inevitably follows, allowing water to penetrate the
system causing blisters, cracks and leaks. Compared to other systems, installation of asphalt roof
is energy-intensive (hot processes typically use LP gas as the heat source), and contributes to
atmospheric air pollution (toxic, and green-house gases are lost from the asphalt during
installation).
EPDM
Ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM) is a synthetic rubber most commonly used
in single-ply roofing because it is readily available and simple to apply. Seaming and detailing
has evolved over the years and is fast, simple and reliable with many membranes including
factory applied tape, resulting in a faster installation. The addition of these tapes has reduced
labor by as much as 75%.
It is a low-cost membrane, but when properly applied in appropriate places, its warranted life-
span has reached 30 years and its expected lifespan has reached 50 years.
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There are three installation methods: ballasted, mechanically attached, and fully adhered.
Ballasted roof are held in place by large round stones or slabs. Mechanically attached roof
membranes are held in place with nails and are suitable in some applications where wind
velocities are not usually high. A drawback is that the nails penetrate the waterproof membrane;
if correctly fastened the membrane is "self-gasketing" and will not leak. Fully adhered
installation methods prove to give the longest performance of the three methods.
The most advanced EPDM has been combined with a polyester fleece backing and fabricated
with a patented hot-melt adhesive technology which provides consistent bond strength between
the fleece backing and the membrane. This has resulted in largely eliminating shrinkage of the
product, whilst still allowing it to stretch up to 300% and move with the building through the
seasons. The fleece improves puncture and tear resistance considerably; 45-mil (1.1 mm) EPDM
with a fleece backing is 180% stronger than 60-mil (1.5 mm) bare EPDM. Fleece backed EPDM
has a tear strength of 39.9 kN/m (228 lbf/in) compared to 13.1 kN/m (75 lbf/in) of that without
the fleece reinforcement, more than 3 times the strength of non-reinforced membranes.
This thermoset polymer is known for long-term weathering ability and can withstand fluctuations
in temperature and ultraviolet rays. They can also be great energy savers.
Turbo seal
Turbo seal is a self-healing gel-like membrane that never cures. Made of 45% recycled tire
rubber, it goes on top of existing tar (asphalt) roof then capped with a sheet membrane.
CSPE
Chlorosulfonated Polyethylene is a synthetic rubber roofing material. It is more popularly known
as Hypalon. The product is usually reinforced and depending upon manufacturer, seams can be
heat welded or adhered with a solvent-based adhesive. (No longer available in the US as a full
roof membrane).
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Modified bitumen
A bitumen is a term applied to both coal tar pitch and asphalt products. Modified Bitumen’s were
developed in Europe in the 1970s when Europeans became concerned with the lower
performance standards of roofing asphalt. Modifiers were added to replace the plasticizers that
had been removed by advanced methods in the distillation process. The two most common
modifiers are APP (atactic polypropylene) from Italy and SBS (styrene-butadiene-styrene) from
France. The United States started developing modified bitumen compounds in the late 1970s and
early 1980s.
APP was added to asphalt to enhance aging characteristics and was applied to polyester,
fiberglass, or polyester and fiberglass membranes to form a sheet good, cut in manageable
lengths for handling. Usually applied by heating up the underside of the roll with a torch
provided a significant fire hazard and was outlawed in some municipalities when buildings
caught fire and some burnt to the ground. Another problem developed when a lack of standards
allowed some manufacturers to produce goods with amounts of APP insufficient to enhance the
aging characteristics.
SBS is used as a modifier for enhancing substandard asphalt and provides a degree of flexibility
much like rubber. It also is applied to a myriad of carriers and produced as a sheet-good in rolls
that can be easily handled.
SEBS (styrene ethylene butadiene styrene) is a formulation increasing flexibility of the sheet and
longevity.
SIS (styrene-isoprene-styrene) is another modifier used commercially. SIS-modified bitumen is

rarely used, is used primarily in self-adhering sheets, and has very small market share.
Modified bitumen membranes are hybrids that combine the high technology formulation and
prefabrication benefits of single-ply with traditional roofing installation techniques that are used
in built-up roofing. These membranes are factory-fabricated layers of asphalt that are modified
using a plastic or rubber ingredient and are combined with a reinforcement.
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Cold applied liquid membranes
A choice for new roof and roof refurbishment. This type of a roof membrane is generally
referred to as Liquid Roofing and involves the application of a cold liquid roof coating. No open
flames or other heat sources are needed and the glass fiber reinforced systems provide seamless
waterproofing around roof protrusions and details. Systems are based on flexible thermoset resin
systems such as polyester and polyurethane, and poly-methyl-methacrylate (PMMA). In the
United Kingdom, liquid coatings are the fastest growing sector of the flat roof refurbishment
market. Between 2005 and 2009 the UK's leading manufacturers have reported a 70% increase in
the roof area covered by the coating systems supplied.[9] Cold applied liquid rubber offers
similar benefits to thermoset resin systems with the added benefit of being quick to apply and
having high elasticity. Although it is comparatively new to the UK market it has been used
successfully in the US market for 20 years.
PVC (vinyl) membrane roofing

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) membrane roofing is also known as vinyl roofing. Vinyl is derived
from two simple ingredients: fossil fuel and salt. Petroleum or natural gas is processed to make
ethylene, and salt is subjected to electrolysis to separate out the natural element chlorine.
Ethylene and chlorine are combined to produce ethylene dichloride (EDC), which is further
processed into a gas called vinyl chloride monomer (VCM). In the next step, known as
polymerization, the VCM molecule forms chains, converting the gas into a fine, white powder –
vinyl resin – which becomes the basis for the final process, compounding. In compounding,
vinyl resin may be blended with additives such as stabilizers for durability, plasticizers for
flexibility and pigments for color.
Thermoplastic is heat-welded seams form a permanent, watertight bond that is stronger than the
membrane itself. PVC resin is modified with plasticizers and UV stabilizers and reinforced with
fiberglass non-woven mats or polyester woven scrims, for use as a flexible roofing membrane.
PVC is, however, subject to plasticizer migration. (a process by which the plasticizers migrate
out of the sheet causing it to become brittle.) Thus, a thicker membrane has a larger reservoir of
plasticizer to maintain flexibility over its lifespan. PVC is often blended with other polymers to
add to the performance capabilities of the original PVC formulation, such as KEE – Keystone
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Ethylene Ester. Such blends are referred to as either a CPA – Copolymer Alloy or a TPA –
Tripolymer Alloy.
Vinyl roof provide an energy-efficient roofing option due to their inherently light coloring.
While the surface of a black roof can experience a temperature increase of as much as 90 degrees
under the heat of the full sun, a white reflective roof typically increases only 5–14 degrees
Celsius (10–25 degrees Fahrenheit).
Vinyl membranes can also be used in waterproofing applications for roofing. This is a common
technique used in association with green, or planted, roof.
Flexible thermopolyolefin
Flexible thermopolyolefin is the exact physical and chemical name given to the product
commonly known in the industry as TPO (thermoplastic olefin). Although TPO exhibits the
positive characteristics of other thermoplastics, it does not have any plasticizers added to the
product like other thermoplastics. This categorization made sense when the product was
introduced in the early 1990s and was unproven in the industry. TPO was categorized with
thermoplastic membranes that were similar in look and performance but were far from their real
chemical and physical characteristics of the TPO membrane. Having no plasticizers and
chemically being closer to rubber but having better seam, puncture, and tear strength, TPO was
touted to be a white wieldable rubber of the future. From 2007-2012, reported sales of TPO
roofing products by all six major U.S. manufacturers showed materials and accessories sales
quadrupling those of all other flat roofing materials. [citation needed]
TPO
Thermoplastic Polyolefin single-ply roofing. This roofing material can be fully adhered,
mechanically fastened, or ballasted. TPO seam strengths are reported to be three to four times
higher than EPDM roofing systems. This is a popular choice for "Green" building as there are no
plasticizers added and TPO does not degrade under UV radiation. It is available in white, grey,
and black. Using white roof material helps reduce the "heat island effect" and solar heat gain in
the building.
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Coal-tar pitch built-up roof
Coal tar is an aromatic hydrocarbon and a by-product from the coking process of the coal
industry. It is historically in abundance where coal is used in steel manufacturing. It ages very
slowly through volatilization and is an excellent waterproofing and oil resistant product. Roof are
covered by heating the coal tar and applying it between layers of tar paper. It has limitations in
regard to its application on dead level or flat roof with slopes less than 1/4 in 12. It has a
tendency to soften in warm temperatures and "heal" itself. It is typically ballasted with gravel to
provide a walking surface; however, a mineral surface membrane is available. Coal tar provides
an extremely long-life cycle that is sustainable and renewable. It takes energy to manufacture
and to construct a roof with it but its proven longevity with periodic maintenance provides
service for many years, with ages from 50 to 70 years not uncommon, with some now
performing for over a century. Currently, there are cold process (no kettle is used) coal tar pitch
products that almost eliminate all fumes associated with its typical hot process version.
Coal tar pitch is often confused with asphalt and asphalt with coal tar pitch. Although they are
both black and both are melted in a kettle when used in roofing that is where the similarity stops.
Glass-reinforced plastic
A glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) roof is a single-ply GRP laminate applied in situ over a good-
quality conditioned plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) deck. The roof is finished with pre-
formed GRP edge trims and a coat of pre-pigmented topcoat.
The durability and lightweight properties of GRP make it the ideal construction material for
applications as diverse as lorry airfoils and roof, boats, ponds and automotive body panels. GRP
is also used in hostile industrial settings for applications such as tanks and underground pipes;
this is due to its ability to withstand high temperatures and its resistance to chemicals.
Unlike other roofing materials, GRP is not really a roofing material and has properties that
render it better suited to small craft construction. It is often used on small domestic installations,
but usually fails prematurely when used on larger projects. As well as being an inexpensive
material, it is robust, inflexible and will never corrode.
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Metal flat roofing
Metal is one of the few materials that can be used for both pitched roof and flat roof. Flat or low-
slope roof can be covered with steel, aluminum, zinc, or copper just like pitched roof. However,
metal shingles are not practical for flat roofing and so roofers recommend standing-seam and
screw-down metal panels. While metal can be an expensive option in the short term, superior
durability and simple maintenance of metal roof typically saves money in the long term. A study
by Ducker International in 2005 identified the average cost per year of a metal roof to be 30
cents/square foot while single-ply roof stood at 57 cents and built-up roofing at 37 cents. [10]
Metal roof are also one of the most environmentally sound roofing options, with most metal
roofing material already containing 30-60% recycled content, and the product itself being 100%
recyclable. The value of recyclable scrap metal can also provide a benefit to the homeowner;
upon roof replacement, scrap metal from the old roof can be sold to recoup a potentially large
share of original material costs.
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COMMON DEFECTS OF CONCRETE FLAT
The few academically reviewed articles or journal had been made to identify the common defects
of concrete flat as follows:
1. “SOME COMMON MAINTENANCE AND BUILDING DEFECTS”, prepared by

Ahmad Suffian (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.proeng.2013.03.009)
2. UNDERSTANDING COMMON BUILDING DEFECTS – THE DILAPIDATION

SURVEY REPORT, article published in "Majalah Akitek", Volume 16, Issue 1, First
Quarter 2004, pg. 19-21 By Associate Professor Dr. A Ghafar Ahmad, School of
Housing, Building and Planning, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang.
3. Assessment of Significant Causes to Building Defects M.A. Othuman Mydin1 , N.A.

Agus Salim2 , S.W. Tan3 , N.M. Tawil4 , N. Md Ulang 5.
4. The 2nd International Conference on Rehabilitation and Maintenance in Civil

Engineering Some Common Maintenance Problems and Building Defects: Our
Experiences Ahmad Suffiana* a Property Division, Social Security Organization
(SOCSO), Malaysia.
In recent year, many building in Malaysia have designed for a concrete flat roof rather than
traditional pitched roof. There are also buildings that incorporate design slope roof and flat roof
that keep facility equipment in the flat roof area. However due to hot and humid condition
throughout the year in equatorial climate, surface-related defects, damage to the waterproofing
membrane and cracks in the roof parapet wall are the common defects of roof construction that
require frequent maintenance. This paper seeks to review the common defects of concrete flat
roof construction in institutions of higher education buildings in equatorial climates. The
research reported was carried out by the building inspection and analysis of 23 case study
buildings. Surface profile and the slope of the roof, rainwater drainage, parapet wall and the
waterproofing membrane inspected and analyzed. The findings of the inspection indicated that
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the concrete flat roof slope should be appropriate to the size of a roof and parapet wall
dislocation failure is dependent on whether the ends are hinged or fixed. Failure usually leads to
tearing of the waterproofing membrane. Proper surface workmanship, modification to the roof
parapet wall design and to the selection of construction materials is suggested. The modes of
failure and proposed modification will be of interest to designers and those responsible for the
maintenance of flat-roofed buildings in equatorial climates.
Probably the most common problems with flat roofs, leaks and lingering moisture are issues that
can be dealt with effectively, as long as you stay on top of them. Just like any roof, a flat
roof will develop leaks, but since its flat, the water doesn't have anywhere to go but straight
down.
Alligatoring
One of the surest signs that your flat roof needs replacement is a phenomenon called alligatoring.
What happens is the asphalt used to build your flat roof has aged and lost its elasticity, causing it
to crack and bubble and look something like the skin of an alligator. Unfortunately, this means
that your asphalt flat roof has deteriorated past the point of no return and will need replacement.
Leaks and moisture

Probably the most common problems with flat roofs, leaks and lingering moisture are issues that
can be dealt with effectively, as long as you stay on top of them. Just like any roof, a flat roof
will develop leaks, but since its flat, the water doesn’t have anywhere to go but straight down.
This means that moisture can seep into the roof itself and cause problems that may lead to mold
and fungus. The best way to deal with this is to make sure that you have your roof inspected
regularly and maintenance every time you find an issue.
Buckle in membrane
Most asphalt flat roofs are constructed similarly to shingled roofs in that they are made up of a
membrane soaked in asphalt, and then laid across the top of the building to make the roof; unlike
shingled roofs, however, the membrane on a flat roof is all one piece. This means that over time,
as your house shifts and settles, so too will your roof. Excessive movement can cause buckles in
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that asphalt membrane, which signals the end of your flat roof’s life. A roof that is buckling is
not safe to live under, and can cause major problems down the line. It’s a good idea to get it
replaced as soon as possible.
Pooling water
Since your roof is flat, when it rains or snows, there’s nowhere for that precipitation to go. As
your home settles over time, the roof itself will shift a bit, meaning it might not be as level as it
was when it was first installed. This may cause water to pool in divots and dips in your roof.
While most materials are manufactured to hold up to water, you should drain these pools as soon
as possible and check to make sure that water didn’t seep into lower layers of the roof. If pooling
is allowed to linger, it’s likely to deteriorate the exterior of your roof, shortening the lifetime of
the flat roof.
Crack in roof
Flat roofs tend to have more pressure exerted on them, since they are flat instead of slanted.
Sometimes this pressure can build up, and if the pressure and stress become excessive, it can
cause your roof to crack. In the event that your roof does crack, you should call a professional
immediately. In addition to exposing your home to precipitation, a crack in the roof is often a
sign that your roof is structurally compromised, and it’s time for a new one.
Flashing
Just like most other materials, asphalt flat roofs tend to expand and contract with changing
weather and temperatures. Over time, this continued expansion and contraction can cause the
flashing to pull away from the edges and corners of your roof, leading to leaks and moisture that
can get trapped inside your roof. The best way to avoid this is to inspect and maintain your flat
roof regularly. Once the leaks become significant, or if you have a lot of deterioration in the
flashing, you’ll be forced to get a new roof.
Roof Defects
As roof often acts as a weather shield, it is important to treat aging roof tiles. In Malaysia, clay
roof tiles have been widely used in the heritage buildings. Common defects of roof tiles include
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corrosion of nails that fix the tiles to battens and rafters, the decay of battens, and the cracking of
tiles caused by harmful growth. Harmful growth poses a danger to the tiles because it may lift
tiles and create leaks. Another aspect to be considered is the mortar applied for ridge tiles which
tends to decay or flake off over the years.

Dampness Penetration through Roof
Dampness penetration through roof can be a serious matter, particularly to buildings located near
water sources. Not only does it deteriorate building structures but also damages to furnishings.
The main cause of dampness is water entering a building through different routes. Water
penetration occurs commonly through roof exposed to prevailing wet wind or rain. With
the existence of gravity, water may penetrate through capillaries or cracks between mortar joints
and bricks or blocks before building up trap moisture behind hard renders. Water may also drive
further up the wall to emerge at a higher level. Dampness also occurs in roof due to other factors
such as leaking gutters or downpipes, defective drains, burst plumbing and condensation due to
inadequate ventilation. Dampness may also enter a building from the ground through cracks or
mortar joints in the foundation roof.

Unstable Foundations
Foundations are a critical in distributing loads from roof and floors onto the earth below. They
are structurally important to the permanence of a building, and should this be lacking, it is
pointless investing on superficial restoration work. Most of the common problems associated
with the foundations depend on the geology of the ground upon which a building stands,
structural failures as well as presence and height of a water table. Additionally, inherent failures
may also happen in a building in which has to cope and carry any unsettled problem of the
foundations. Problems of the foundations may lead to an unstable building structure, which is
unsafe to users and occupants. Unstable foundations may occur because of several reasons
including shrinking clay soil, penetration of dampness and water that may decay roof and
foundations; presence of large trees near the building; and the undertaking of excavations nearby.
They may also occur due to traffic vibrations, deteriorating of building materials and the
increased loads, particularly with a change in building function.

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Poor Installation of Air-conditioning Units
Most heritage buildings were built without air-conditioning systems. Where people must contend
with warm temperatures, the need to install air-conditioning systems to meet modern building
requirements seems necessary. Subject to the building function, structures and the effects on
building fabric, one should consider several factors before installing air-conditioning units in
heritage buildings. The cooler and drier air produced by the air-conditioning systems may cause
shrinkage of building materials. There may also be a possibility of condensation either on the
surfaces or within the structure of the fabric, eventually allowing the build-up of mould.
Moreover, it may be difficult installing the air conditioners as evidenced by how units were
haphazardly placed on windows or the front façade of some heritage buildings. Such poor
practices have gravely affected the appearance of these heritage buildings.
Climatic Conditions
Malaysia is a hot and humid country where heavy rainfall and warm sunshine are all year round.
This in turn causes the buildings tend to weather promptly, especially the building materials
which are exposed to external elements such as sunlight, rain, wind and atmospheric pollution. In
such circumferences, problems such as dampness, mould growth, peeling paint, discoloration
and corrosion can easily happen. Defects happened not solely caused by one factor; in fact, they
are interlinked.
Building Age
Most of buildings are more than 10 years old. Some of them are even more than 50 years old.
The longer a building is exposed to the atmosphere, the higher tendency for it to deteriorate. In
point of fact, all elements of buildings have a tendency to decay at a lesser or greater rate due to
aging.
Maintenance of Roof Buildings

Most of the buildings do not practice scheduled maintenance but carry out emergency
maintenance when necessary. The repair and maintenance purposes when problems have
occurred.
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Poor Workmanship
Poor workmanship can worsen the building quality and performance, such as poor installation
methods, poor mixing of materials, poor handling of materials and poor planning. It is found that
the tiles are not installed adequately during the construction stage. In other words, they are not
well aligned and untidy. Tiles are used as finishes, therefore, must be able to withstand the heavy
impact acting on it as well as enhance its aesthetic value.
Insufficient Awareness
Vandalism is one of the irresponsible actions that can damage the building facilities and
infrastructures. Insufficient awareness and knowledge are the root causes of vandalism. Besides,
softer building materials often invite the cases of vandalism. The examples of vandalism are
doodle on the roof and bash the doors. Apart from that, the consciousness of school authorities
and users in the maintenance aspect is still low. They do not really alert and practice
maintenance to look after the buildings’ facilities and infrastructures. This results in more
damages and problems in the building structures.
Waterproofing Issues
To suit a modern concept of design and ease of maintenance, many building owners in Malaysia
have opted for a flat roof concept rather than traditional pitched roof. However due to a relatively
high annual average rain intensity in Malaysia of 250cm, the problem that mostly associates with
the flat roof is a waterproofing-related issues.
The following table indicates the type of problems that associated with the respective SOCSO
buildings encountered in 2010.
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From the above, the bituminous membrane causes regular problem which we identified its root
causes as follows:
1. The burning process of membrane was not properly carried out resulting weak bonding to
the substrates. Water may have tracked between the membrane and the slab thus makes it
difficult to trace the source of the leak.
2. No screed to protect the membrane from punching forces. Failure to repair minor defects
at early stage that escalated to become major.
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Some problems could have been avoided much earlier if the installer strictly followed the
instruction such as constructing angle fillet at corners, fully cleaned the substrate surface prior to
installation, accurately mixed component A with component B, etc. Our record shows that a 4
mm thick membrane performs better if compared to that of 3 better bonding to the slab.
Our records also concede the fact that flat roofs are usually more vulnerable to leakage problems
compare to that of pitched roof (Douglas and Ransom, 2006). 104 Ahmad Suffian / Procedia
Engineering 54 (2013) 101 – 108.
Warranty Issues
Normally manufacturers offer 5-to-10-year warranty for their products that tied together with
performance warranty. It means that beside the guaranteed products, it also covers the quality of
worked carried out by their licensed applicators (SOCSO 2011).
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Even though it looks beneficial to the client, but its reliability is arguable as manufacturing
companies might still exist toward the end of the warranty period, but the licensed applicators
may have closed down their business. If this happens the warranty does not carry any weight and
benefit to the building owners. As a result, building owners may tend to choose non-branded
products that only offer 1 to 2 years with much cheaper cost for the next round of repair.
FACTORS OF AFFECTING CONCRETE FLAT ROOF DEFECTS
Most of the factors that cause the failure and affect the life expectancy of bitumen, polymeric
and metal roofs can be identified before any problems occur. However, left unattended any one
of them can ultimately cause the failure of the complete roof.
Poor Design
Incorrect or lack of calculations for wind uplift and condensation risk analysis, are typical
examples of design errors which can result in failure of the roofing system. Inadequate falls can
cause ponding water, which may affect the laps and compromise the waterproofing integrity.
Building movement may also require consideration, where applicable.
Incorrect Installation
Incorrect or lack of calculations for wind uplift and condensation risk analysis, are typical
examples of design errors which can result in failure of the roofing system. Inadequate falls can
cause ponding water, which may affect the laps and compromise the waterproofing integrity.
Building movement may also require consideration, where applicable.
Material Properties
Bitumen based roofing systems rely on chippings, solar reflective paint or ballasting to provide
resistance against UV degradation. Any loss or movement of this protection leaves the bitumen
vulnerable to attack by Ultraviolet light, resulting in crazing, blisters, splits and ultimately water
ingress.
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Metal roofs mainly rely on coatings to provide protection to the metal system. Damage or
deterioration to the coating can lead to failure of the system. Any repair patches will also only
provide limited resistance to water ingress.
Lack of Roof Maintenance

All roofs require maintenance, even if it is just to clear drainage outlets and gutters. If these are
left blocked water can pond on a bitumen roof, leading to the potential for thermal shock of the
waterproofing as the water freezes and thaws. Loss or movement of UV protection is also a
maintenance item which if left unattended, can lead to serious or total failure of the bitumen roof
system.
SUGGESTION OF REMEDIAL WORKS FOR ROOFING DEFECTS
After diagnosing all building conditions, defects and causes, they should be presented with
relevant graphics in the dilapidation survey report. The use of information technology may well
assist in the preparation of a good-quality report. As a rule of thumb, a dilapidation survey report
should contain the following information:
· Cultural attributes and historical background of heritage buildings

· Architectural details and significance of heritage buildings
· Detailed explanation of building conditions, defects and their causes
· Proposed methods and techniques of building conservation
· Proposed scientific studies and tests to be carried out in the project
· Pictorial documentation on building conditions and defects
· Floor plans, sections and elevations indicating the locations of building defects
It is essential to recommend in the dilapidation survey report the proposed scientific studies and
tests to be carried out during any conservation work. Such scientific studies and laboratory tests
are important as they provide additional information that can lead to solving related building
problems or defects. Common scientific studies required during the conservation works include
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microbiological studies to identify plant species, dispersion agents, control ranking and chemical
fungicides; archaeological studies to trace hidden remnants; and the study of relative humidity to
gauge the local temperatures and air moisture levels. Some examples of the laboratory tests
required are the brick test to analyze the compressive strength and level of porosity; the timber
test to identify timber species, grading and group strength; lime plaster to determine the
component elements through X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) analysis; the salt test to detect the salt
levels and the percentage of total ions; and the paint test to classify paint types as well as color
scheme analysis. All data and analyses generated from the scientific studies and laboratory tests
should be presented in separate reports.
To be effective, the practice of the dilapidation survey should involve a multidisciplinary

approach which requires in-depth knowledge in conservation as well as other related fields in
order to correctly assess building defects, determine their causes, and propose restoration
methods. Relevant scientific studies and laboratory tests are equally important as these results
provide for a sound basis for decision-making in conservation works. Callous incidences of
improper diagnoses of building conditions, and the resultant ineffective remedial measures may
pose unnecessary threats to the heritage building structures and raise concerns over public safety.
It is imperative, therefore, to invest some resources in conducting the dilapidation survey prior to
any conservation project. The dilapidation survey report, once completed, serves as an
indispensable archival resource for future references and cyclical building maintenance
programs.
Roof Pond can be repair by put inning EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) Rubber
Membrane. It is a high-density gum elastic, lasting, dependable and easy to put in. Roof pool can
be avoided if EPDM Rubber Membrane installed right.
The redress work for drooping on roof is retracing the tittuping beam of roof. It is necessary to
replace a new construction if the roof sagged serious and the new construction must be able to
back up the coatings.
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It is really easy to mend an early phase roof leaks which is clear all the obstructions from the
roof as it prevents easy flow of rain H2O. Besides, leaking can be repair by using a new roof
coating; it is frequently made after the roof damaged.
Design and Construction of Flat Roof

The proper design of falls in a flat roof is an essential consideration in the overall drainage of the
roof. Falls create flow paths to direct the drainage of rainwater away from the roof to suitable
discharge points. To be effective, it is essential to clear surface water as rapidly as possible from
the flat roof to avoid ponding or stagnation of water on the roof itself. Water ponding on a flat
roof is a prime cause of deterioration because variations in temperature between wet and dry
areas of the roof can cause differential thermal movement. Together with the accumulation of
acids left by evaporating rain, this would cause a breakdown on the roof surface. In general, a
minimum fall of 1 in 80 will help to prevent ponding of water. During construction, precautions
must be taken to prevent excessive moisture from being trapped between the reinforced concrete
roof structure and membrane. This is one of the common causes of flat roof waterproofing
failure. Large amount of water vapor can evaporate from reinforced concrete or a wet screed.
Once the waterproofing membrane is laid, drying out of the structural slab will mostly take place
from the underside of the deck. Cross ventilation beneath the deck is usually quite restricted due
to erected partition walls. Any trapped moisture subjected to increased temperature from the sun
will form vapor which will exert itself directly beneath the waterproofing membrane. If this
vapor pressure is not released or vented sufficiently, the build-up pressure will begin to form a
blister on the membrane itself and residual dampness on the underside of the roof. When the
waterproofing membrane has suffered an irreversible stretch, subsequent cooling will not cause
the air pocket to return to its original size. Therefore, if a dry surface cannot be achieved within a
reasonable period, direct membrane adhesion should be postponed, or an alternative method of
laying should be considered.
Roof Membrane Systems

The waterproofing membrane is considered to be most important component of the roofing
system as it serves the main function of keeping water out of the building. Below are some
common roof waterproofing membranes used locally:
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Application of liquid-applied application membrane using roller
a. Liquid-applied membranes
Liquid-applied membranes are applied on site in a liquid form which is allowed to set and
form into a water impermeable membrane. Bituminous-based (except those containing
coal tar) and polymeric-based membranes can be applied when they are cold while those
containing coal tar are usually applied when heated.
Liquid-applied membranes are seamless, semi-flexible, easy to apply, detail, maintain

and repair. However careful supervision and control during application is needed,
particularly in ensuring proper curing of concrete, consistent thickness and uniform
application.
b. Pre-formed
Pre-formed sheet membranes one type of pre-formed membranes is the polymer-modified
bitumen membranes, and they are applied by heat or attached with an adhesive. These
blended or ‘modified’ asphaltic product are bonded to a high strength fabric of polyester
or fiberglass and produced into rolls. They have elongation and recovery properties
which make them suitable to protect against stresses created by wind, temperature
fluctuation and normal structural expansion and contraction of the building. Some of
these products are also modified to increase their resistance to fire, thus increasing their
fire-rating. Styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) rolls are modified with 'rubbers' and
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compatible with petroleum products. Atactic Polypropylene Polymer (APP) rolls are
modified with 'plasticizers' and not compatible with all petroleum-based products, grease
and oils.
Another type of pre-formed membrane is made of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). Although

PVC is a hard resin, it is modified with the addition of plasticizers to make it more
supple and pliable for use as roofing membranes. PVC membranes are mainly produced
by either the calendaring or extrusion process. In the calendaring process, a
reinforcement layer of glass fiber or polyester scrim is normally incorporated into the
membrane to provide greater strength and dimensional stability. Like all thermoplastic
membranes, they turn soft when subjected to heat. Some proprietary membranes are
formulated with heat reflective compounds capable of lowering the surface temperature
of the roof membrane by as much as 15%.
Good Detailing Practices for Liquid Applied Membranes
As liquid-applied membranes are not very elastic and do not bridge over cracks and gaps well, it
is good practice to fix a lax bitumen membrane over building’s expansion and movement joints.
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Good Detailing Practices for Pre-Formed Membranes
Along roof edges and parapets, corners and pipe penetrations, a minimum 25 mm chamfer or
fillet should be provided to ensure a smooth contour for easy installation of the membrane. This
fillet helps to reduce the bending stresses in the membrane as compared to bending it at 90°
without the fillet.
Along edges, upstands, and vent pipe penetrations, the bitumen membrane is normally extended
at least 150 mm above the finished roof level and doubly wrapped with appropriate overlapping
at corners. It is good practice to form a groove on the parapet wall so that the edge of the
bitumen membrane can be “tucked” into the groove. With the groove on the parapet wall and the
membrane ending in a horizontal position, it can prevent water, flowing down the wall surface,
from seeping through a weakened joint between the membrane and wall surface. • At around
corners of parapet walls, the bitumen membrane should be neatly folded and overlapped. The
vertical joint at the corner should be sealed off with bitumen to prevent water seeping through
any weakened joint.
For rain-water down-pipe penetrations, before laying the horizontal bitumen membrane, an
additional small piece of membrane should be stuck to the inside of the pipe penetration while
the top is cut and laid horizontal. Both top and bottom portion should be 50 mm from roof
surface. As the joint around the pipe penetration is the weakest area and the horizontal membrane
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cannot simply just bend 90° into the pipe penetration, the additional piece of membrane acts as a
downturn covering the pipe/slab joint.
For PVC membrane terminating at the parapet wall, a special PVC coated metal strip can be
used. First a small groove line can be cut on the parapet wall, then the L-shaped metal strip can
be nailed on to the wall. Finally, the PVC membrane can be heat welded on to the metal strip.
CONCLUSION
As a conclusion, building maintenance aspects in Malaysia requires more involvement from civil
engineers as their inputs are not less important compared to that of mechanical& electrical. For
instance, immediate repair is really important in preventing the propagation of the defects such
as structural cracks, soil settlements, leakage, etc. In the other hand, engineers must acquire good
understanding about the property of repair materials for lasting solution. For example,
polyurethane base waterproofing coating such as Socialistic 450 has its limit. When cracks
develop the membrane will have an endless elongation, therefore the membrane will crack. If
hairline crack with approximately 0.08mm width was not sealed prior to the application of
membrane the crack tends to widen by 450%. Therefore, the membrane will break once the crack
width reaches 0.36mm (0.08mm x 4.5) wide. Failing to understand such fundamental, building
maintenance would be unnecessarily costly.
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Flat roof surface must be free from obstruction so that rainwater can flow smoothly from the roof
area. The slope of the roof must also be in accordance with specifications laid down and can
stream water in less than 48 hours. Construction and use of a flat roof must meet the original
design and it needs to be maintained so as not to affect the quality of the materials used.
Waterproofing materials selection must take into account the durability factor appropriate to
the surrounding environment and weather. Flat roof should be well through curing process so
that it is not easy to crack during its lifetime. The thickness of the plaster layer should be uniform
and good binder should be selected as finishing materials for flat roofs.
Proper design of falls in reinforced concrete flat roofs is most important in creating flow paths to
suitable discharge points. For a roof to be effective, surface water should be discharged quickly
without ponding or stagnation. Next, it is important to select the appropriate waterproofing
membrane. As the roof is constantly exposed to direct sunlight and rain, it is likely to experience
tremendous thermal stresses that will affect its physical properties and performance. Pre-formed
waterproofing membranes generally will perform better than liquid applied membrane as it can
bridge over cracks and gaps better. Also, as they are more resistant to indentations caused by
traffic, they are suited for large flat roofs areas exposed to foot traffic. However, liquid-applied
membrane is still preferred for small roofs and roofs with a lot of obstructions.
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REFERENCES:
Chudley, R. (1981). The Maintenance and Adaptation of Buildings. New York: Logman Inc.
Al-Zubaidi, H. (1997). Assessing the demand for building maintenance in a major hospital
complex. Propery Management. Vol. 15 No. 3. pp. 173-183
Forsyth, M. (2007). Understanding Historic Building Conservation. Blackwell Publishing Ltd,

Oxford, UK.
Hafizi Zakaria, Kadir Arifin, Shaharuddin, Kadaruddin & Zahedi Fisal (2010). Pengurusan
Fasiliti Dalam Penyelenggaraan Bangunan:Amalan Kualiti, Keselamatan dan Kesihatan:
Journal of Techno-Social. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. Diambil dari
http://penerbit.uthm.edu.my/ojs/index.php/JTS/article/view/316/195.
Mohd Sabri Mat Deris (n.d). Tahap Keberkesanan Penguruan Penyelenggaraan Fasiliti
Bangunan di Sektor Awam Malaysia. Diambil dari
http://eprints.utm.my/6116/1/MohdSaberiMatDerisMFKSG2007TTT.pdf.
Venkatesh J (2005), An Introduction to Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), The Plant

Maintenance Resource Center, Website: http://www.plantmaintenance.com.
Datuk Rosnah binti Haji Abdul Rashid Shirlin. (n.d), Building Information Modeling (BIM).
Diambil dari: https://www.cljlaw.com/files/hansard/DR/pdf/DR-02112016.pdf. pada 5hb
Februari 2017.
Malik M.A. Khalfan (2002). Sustainable Development and Sustainable Construction: A
Literature Review on C-SanD Project. Department of Civil Engineering, Loughborough
University.
Rozita Aris (2006). Maintenance Factors in Building Design. Diambil dari

http://eprints.utm.my/5385/1/RozitaArisMFKA2006ABS.pdf
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QUESTION 2 – GREEN ROOF
The implementations of green roof have been widely used in the developed countries such as
Germany, United Kingdom, United States and Canada. Green roofs have many benefits such as
aesthetic and economic value, ecological gain which are optimization of storm water
management, urban heat island mitigation and energy conservation. In term of pollution, green
roof can control the air and noise pollution in urban cities. The application of green roof in
Malaysian building has been studied with the previous work of green roof either in Malaysia or
other Asian region as like Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan and several other countries
that have similar climate and environment as in Malaysia.
These technologies of adapting green roof have been compared to the Green Building Index
(GBI) of Malaysian buildings. The study has concentrated on the technical aspect of green roof
system having focused on:-
i) waste & recyclable materials.
ii) types of plants and method of planting; and
iii) green roof as tool to reduce storm water runoff. The finding of these areas will be
compared to the suitability in achieving good practice of the GBI in Malaysia. Results
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show that most of the method are based on the countries own climate and
environment. This suggests that the method of using green roof must adhere to the
tropical climate of Malaysia. Suggestion of this research will be viewed in term of the
sustainability of the green roof. Further research can be developed to implement the
best method and application in Malaysian climate especially in urban cities and
township.
COMPONENTS OF GREEN ROOF
A vegetated roof, also known as a green roof, living roof, or eco roof is a planting system where
materials and plants are installed on the top of a building. The vegetation is designed to be
independent as a result of selecting plants capable of developing into a stable ecosystem.
The 3 types of green roof

The extensive green roof should be distinguished from the traditional roof garden. Light and
fairly thin, the plant system can be established on any type of support (such as wood or steel).
The selected group of plants requires very little maintenance and develops into a stable
ecosystem. Finally, the extensive green roof is a system that is generally inaccessible to
pedestrians: the movement of people is limited to maintaining a watertight roofing membrane
and the health of the plants. Three types of green roofs exist: extensive, semi-intensive, and
intensive green roofs.
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1) Intensive green roofs (roof gardens)
These roofs are equipped with a garden, as usually seen on the ground floor. It can be covered
with bushes, herbs, grasses and even with certain kind of trees! With this type of roof garden, it
is obviously very important for the green roof construction to be solid enough. As it appears, a
roof like this has a considerable weight (440 pounds per square meter). An intensive green roof
can be used as a normal garden, which requires much maintenance.
Characteristics:
 Applicable to roofs with an inclination of 1-4 degrees.
 Layer thickness: greater than 20 cm.
 Load of the roof: 440 pounds/m². An adjusted roof construction is necessary.
 A license and bearing strength control by a building expert is required.
 Roof is walkable.
 Much maintenance (like a garden).
2) Extensive green roofs

We speak of an extensive green roof when the roof is especially covered with mosses, succulent
plants and herbs that do not demand much maintenance. This roof type is not or barely walkable,
but it is of much lighter weight than an intensive green roof. The fact that this roof type is cheap,
lightweight and easily feasible is advantageous as compared to an intensive green roof.
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Characteristics:
 Applicable to roofs with an inclination angle from 1 to 45 degrees.
 Layer thickness: smaller than 20 cm.
 Roof load: 88 to 220 pounds/m².
 License is not required, unlike bearing strength control by a building expert.
 Roof is not walkable.
 Little maintenance.
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THE COMPONENTS OF A GREEN ROOF
The green roof consists of 8 superimposed layers.
1. The load-bearing component of the roof

A load bearing structure has the components of a building which carries and transfers the
load to the ground safely. This structure guarantee stability of the building and its
performance. Commonly walls, columns, beams, foundation.
2. The moisture barrier or vapor barrier

These two terms essentially refer to the same thing. Moisture barriers and vapor barriers
are both building materials designed to prevent water from getting past the barrier. Vapor
barrier is the more common terminology, though organizations like the U.S. Department
of Energy say that the term "vapor diffusion retarders" more accurately represents the
goal of a vapor barrier. No vapor barrier is capable of stopping all moisture from passing
through.
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3. The thermal insulator
Thermal insulation is the reduction of heat transfer (i.e., the transfer of thermal energy
between objects of differing temperature) between objects in thermal contact or in range
of radiative influence. Thermal insulation can be achieved with specially engineered
methods or processes, as well as with suitable object shapes and materials.
Heat flow is an inevitable consequence of contact between objects of different

temperature. Thermal insulation provides a region of insulation in which thermal
conduction is reduced or thermal radiation is reflected rather than absorbed by the lower-
temperature body.
4. The waterproofing membrane (root barrier)
A waterproofing membrane is a thin layer of water-tight material that is laid over a

surface. This layer is continuous and does not allow water to pass through it. For
example, on a flat terrace, a waterproofing membrane could be laid above the structural
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slab and below the finish tiles. This will ensure that water does not seep into the
structural slab. The tiles and membrane must be laid over a filler material that is sloped to
ensure that water flows into sumps and drains. Any water that remains as puddles over
the tiles is likely to seep into the slab over time, so puddles are to be avoided at all costs.
5. The drainage layer
Good drainage is critical for green roofs and ensures that large amounts of water are not
retained on the roof, compromising both the structural integrity of the building and plant
health through waterlogging and oxygen-depleted substrates. Sub-surface run-off must
drain efficiently from the substrate, into the drainage layer, off the roof surface, and into
drains to the storm water or rainwater collection. The growing substrate must be kept
separate from the drainage layer with a filter sheet.
6. The filtering layers
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This layer allows separating the substrate layer from the drainage layer. Water can go
down through the filter layer but not the small substrate particles that can obstruct the
drainage layer. The usual, main materials are polypropylene or polyester geotextile felts.
Despite the good performance provided by these types of fabrics, new alternatives for
future materials must be found because due to its synthetic origin they are not the best
choice from the point of view of sustainable construction approach that inspires the use of
green roofs.
7. The growing medium (substrate)
In general, the bulk of the water storage in a green roof buildup is in the growing
medium. The shallow ‘soil’ depth of extensive green roofs severely limits water storage
capacity, adding to what is already an extreme environment for the plants. This is
reflected in the relatively short list of plants that are suitable for planting extensive green
roofs. The extreme growing environment is something we battle with when we design
extensive green roofs, but it is important to remember that this is only one side of the
story. There are other factors to be considered.
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8. The plant layers
The basic anatomy of a green roof consists of vegetation, growing medium, filter membrane,
drainage layer, waterproof / root repellant layer, roofing membrane support for plantings above,
thermal insulation, vapor control layer, and structural roof support.
INTERVIEW AND CASE STUDY ABOUT GREEN ROOF
HERIOT-WATT UNIVERSITY MALAYSIA, PUTRAJAYA CAMPUS
Interviewed had been made with Mr. Abdul Rahman Mansor, Building Facilities Manager
from the Management of Heriot-Watt University Malaysia Putrajaya Campus, the person in
charged and has responsibilities on the maintenance of the said University Building.
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Leading British university Heriot Watt recently opened a campus in Putrajaya, Malaysia, its
second campus outside of Scotland after Dubai.
During Construction Stage
The most striking feature of this airy lakefront building is its curved roof which is being topped
with grass. It is said to the first living grass roof of its kind in Malaysia and presumably is
intended to provide insulation and reduce air-conditioning costs. It is 300m long and 30m wide
and construction involves laying a waterproof membrane, installing an irrigation system and
planting the right type of grass to prevent it being washed away.
It will be interesting to see how successful the roof is, said Mr. Abdul Rahman during the
interviewed. Even conventional roofs in Malaysia are prone to leaking during torrential
downpours, without having several tons of wet soil on the roof.
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ADVANTAGES OF GREEN ROOF
1. Thermal reduction and energy conservation

Green roofs improve and reduce energy consumption. They can reduce heating by
adding mass and thermal resistance value, also can reduce the heat island by increasing
evapotranspiration. A 2005 study by Brad Bass of the University of Toronto showed that green
roofs can also reduce heat loss and energy consumption in winter conditions. A modeling study
found that adding green roofs to 50 percent of the available surfaces in downtown Toronto would
cool the entire city by 0.2 to 1.4°F (0.1 to 0.8 °C).
A green roof reduces cooling (by evaporative cooling) loads on a building by fifty to ninety
percent, especially if it is glassed-in so as to act as a terrarium and passive solar heat reservoir.
A concentration of green roofs in an urban area can even reduce the city's average temperatures
during the summer, combating the urban heat island effect. Traditional building materials soak
up the sun's radiation and re-emit it as heat, making cities at least 4 °C (7.2 °F) hotter than
surrounding areas. On Chicago's City Hall, by contrast, which features a green roof, roof
temperatures on a hot day are typically 1.4–4.4 °C (2.5–7.9 °F) cooler than they are on
traditionally roofed buildings nearby. Green roofs are encouraged by regulations to combat the
urban heat-island effect. Green roofs are a type of low impact development. In the case, the city
has passed codes offering incentives to builders who put green roofs on their buildings. It has
now been estimated that if all the roofs in a major city were greened, urban temperatures could
be reduced by as much as 7 degrees Celsius.
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2. Water Management
Green roofs can reduce storm water runoff via water-wise gardening techniques. Green roofs

play significant role in retrofitting the Low Impact Development (LID) practices in urban areas.
A study presented at the Green Roofs for Healthy Cities Conference in June 2004, cited by the
EPA, found water runoff was reduced by over 75% during rainstorms. Water is stored by the
roof's substrate and then taken up by the plants, from which it is returned to the atmosphere
through transpiration and evaporation.
Green roofs decrease the total amount of runoff and slow the rate of runoff from the roof. It has
been found that they can retain up to 75% of rainwater, gradually releasing it back into the
atmosphere via condensation and transpiration, while retaining pollutants in their soil. Many
green roofs are installed to comply with local regulations and government fees, often
regarding storm water runoff management. In areas with combined sewer-storm water systems,
heavy storms can overload the wastewater system and cause it to flood, dumping raw sewage
into the local waterways. Often, phosphorus and nitrogen are in this category of environmentally
harmful substances even though they are stimulating to the growth of plant life and agriculture.
When these substances are added to a system, it can create mass biological activity since they are
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considered limiting factors of plant growth and by adding more of them to a system, it allows for
more plant growth. Elevation 314, a new development in Washington, D.C. uses green roofs to
filter and store some of its storm water on site, avoiding the need for expensive underground
sand filters to meet D.C. Department of Health storm-water regulations.
3. Ecological benefits
Green roofs create natural habitat as part of an urban wilderness. Even in high-rise urban settings
as tall as 19 stories, it has been found that green roofs can attract beneficial insects, birds, bees
and butterflies. A recent list of the bee species recorded from green roofs (worldwide) highlights
both the diversity of species, but also the (expected) bias towards small ground-nesting species
(Hofmann and Renner, 2017). Rooftop greenery complements wild areas by providing
steppingstones for songbirds, migratory birds and other wildlife facing shortages of natural
habitat.
Green roofs also serve as a green wall, filtering pollutants and carbon dioxide out of the air,
helping to lower rates of diseases such as asthma. They can also filter pollutants and heavy
metals out of rainwater.
4. Carbon sequestration
An additional environmental benefit of greens roofs is the ability to sequester carbon. Carbon is
the main component of plant matter and is naturally absorbed by plant tissue. The carbon is
stored in the plant tissue and the soil substrate through plant litter and root exudates. A study on
green roofs in Michigan and Maryland found the above ground biomass and below ground
substrate stored on average between 168 g C m −2 and 107 g C m−2. Variations occurred among
the different species of plant used. Substrate carbon content averaged 913 g C m −2 and after the
subtraction of the original carbon content the total sequestration was 378 g C m −2. The
sequestration can be improved by changing plant species, increasing substrate depth, substrate
composition, and management practices. In a study done in Michigan above ground
sequestration ranged from 64g C m−2 to 239g C m−2 for S. acre and S album.
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Also, by increasing the substrate depth would allow for more area of carbon storage and
diversify the types of plants with greater potential of carbon storage. The direct carbon
sequestration techniques and methods can be measured and accounted for. Green roofs also
indirectly reduce CO2 given off by power plants through their ability to insulate buildings.
Buildings in the US account for 38% of the total carbon dioxide emissions. A model supported
by the U.S. Department of Energy found a 2 percent reduction in electricity consumption and 9-
11% reduction in natural gas when implementing green roofs.
5. Costs and financial benefits
From the initial cost of installing a green roof in mind, there are many financial benefits that
accompany green roofing. Green roofing can extend the lifespan of a roof by over 200% by
covering the waterproofing membrane with growing medium and vegetation, this shields the
membrane from ultra-violet radiation and physical damage. Further, Penn State University's
Green Roof Research Center expects the lifespan of a roof to increase by as much as three times
after greening the roof.
It is estimated that the installation of a green roof could increase the real estate value of an
average house by about 7%.
Reduction in energy use is an important property of green roofing. By improving the thermal
performance of a roof, green roofing allows buildings to better retain their heat during the cooler
winter months while reflecting and absorbing solar radiation during the hotter summer months,
allowing buildings to remain cooler. A study conducted by Environment Canada found a 26%
reduction in summer cooling needs and a 26% reduction in winter heat losses when a green roof
is used. With respect to hotter summer weather, green roofing is able to reduce the solar heating
of a building by reflecting 27% of solar radiation, absorbing 60% by the vegetation through
photosynthesis and evapotranspiration, and absorbing the remaining 13% into the growing
medium. Such mitigation of solar radiation has been found to reduce building temperatures by up
to 20°C and reduce energy needs for air-conditioning by 25% to 80%. This reduction in energy
required to cool a building in the summer is accompanied by a reduction in energy required to
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heat a building in the winter, thus reducing the energy requirements of the building year-round
which allows the building temperature to be controlled at a lower cost.
Depending on the region in which a green roof is installed, incentives may be available in the
form of storm water tax reduction, grants, or rebates. The regions where these incentives will
most likely be found are areas where failing storm water management infrastructure is in place,
urban heat island effect has significantly increased the local air temperature, or areas where
environmental contaminants in the storm water runoff is of great concern. An example of such an
incentive is a one-year property tax credit is available in New York City, since 2009, for property
owners who green at least 50% of their roof area.
6. Other
 Help to insulate a building for sound; the soil helps to block lower frequencies and the
plants block higher frequencies.
 If installed correctly many living roofs can contribute to LEED points.
 Increase agricultural space.
 Green roofs not only retain rainwater, but also moderate the temperature of the water and
act as natural filters for any of the water that happens to run off.
DISADVANTAGES OF GREEN ROOF
1. Structural Limitations
The roof and load-bearing walls of some buildings aren't strong enough to support the added
weight of a green roof. Thin, lightweight systems, known as extensive green roofs, typically have
a planting medium measuring 2 to 6 inches deep. Heavier, thicker varieties are known as
intensive green roofs and range in thickness from 6 to 18 inches or deeper. Extensive green roofs
often weigh less than standard gravel and tar roofs. Intensive green roofs, however, may require
additional structural support.
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Another one of the cons of green roofs is the limited amount of slope allowed. Green roofs can
only be installed on flat or gently sloping roofs. The maximum allowed incline is usually 25
degrees, although some green roof installers in Europe have grown turf on 45-degree inclines
using innovative erosion control techniques. If you have a traditional sloped roof, a green roof
may not work.
2. Cost Disadvantages of Green Roofs

The main disadvantage of green roofs is that the initial cost of installing a green roof can be
double that of a normal roof. Depending on what kind of green roof it is, the maintenance costs
could be higher, but some types of green roof have little or no ongoing cost. Some kinds of green
roofs also place higher demands on the waterproofing system of the structure, both because
water is retained on the roof and due to the possibility of roots penetrating the waterproof
membrane. Another disadvantage is that the wildlife they attract may include pest insects which
could easily infiltrate a residential building through open windows.
You may save a little money on your heating and cooling bills, but you'll spend upfront to have
the green roof installed. Installing a green roof can cost up to twice as much as installing a
conventional roof. An extensive green roof generally costs between $10 to $24 per square foot.
Intensive green roofs typically cost twice as much to install as extensive green roofs because of
their thicker, more complex assembly.
Maintenance for intensive green roofs can be labor-intensive and expensive. Extensive roofs
require less watering and fertilizing, but they require at least yearly inspections to remove
unwanted self-seeding plants. Homeowners can reduce costs by weeding, fertilizing and
watering plants themselves instead of hiring a profession to maintain the green roof. Growing
your own plants from seeds rather than buying seedling plugs or mats can also help you save
money.
3. Damage from Leaks

Although most green roofs include a root barrier layer, the roots of plants sometimes penetrate
the waterproof membrane, causing roof leaks that could result in structural damage. A yearly
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inspection to remove problematic shrubs helps reduce the potential for developing leaks. Using a
shallow growing medium usually prevents any plants from growing large enough to develop a
strong, deep root system. Because the green roof assembly is so complex, finding the source of a
leak and repairing it can be a challenging process. Green roof installers can perform flood tests
immediately after the installation or repair of a roof to check for leaks. Some companies offer
leak detectors that use electronic charges to trace the path of a leak to its source.
4. Limited Choice of Plants

Another one of the disadvantages of green roofs is the available plant selection, especially if you
choose an extensive system. The thick growing medium of intensive green roofs can support the
growth of a wide range of plants, including shrubs and small trees. The thinner extensive green
roofs, however, can typically only accommodate a small selection of drought-tolerant plants with
shallow root systems. Sedums, lichens, mosses and low-growing grasses are common choices for
extensive roofs. They look less lush, leafy, and, to some, less attractive than the plants grown in
deeper soil. Less robust plants may also have trouble surviving the strong winds common on
high rooftops.
Green roofs can offer you several benefits, but it's also important to look at the potential
drawbacks. When you understand the potential disadvantages of a green roof, you can make a
fully informed decision about whether to start planting on your roof.
5. Mass of the soil substrate and retained water

The additional mass of the soil substrate and retained water places a large strain on the structural
support of a building. This makes it unlikely for intensive green roofs to become widely
implemented due to a lack of buildings that can support such a large amount of added weight as
well as the added cost of reinforcing buildings to be able to support such weight. Some types of
green roofs do have more demanding structural standards especially in seismic regions of the
world. Some existing buildings cannot be retrofitted with certain kinds of green roof because of
the weight load of the substrate and vegetation exceeds permitted static loading. The weight of a
green roof caused the collapse of a large sports hall roof in Hong Kong in 2016. In the wake of
the disaster numerous other green roofs around the territory were removed.
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6. Maintenance and maintenance energy
Green roofs require significantly more maintenance and maintenance energy compared to a
standard roof. Standard maintenance includes removing debris, controlling weeds, deadhead
trimming, checking moisture levels, and fertilizing. The maintenance energy use for green roofs
has many variables including climate, intensity of rainfall, type of building, type of vegetation,
and external coatings.
The most significant effect comes from scarce rainfall which will increase the maintenance
energy due to the watering required. During a 10-year roof maintenance cycle a house with a
green roof requires more retrofit embodied energy than a house with a white roof. The individual
components of a green roof have CO2 implications during the manufacturing process have
additional implications compared to a conventional roof. The embodied energy for green roof
components is 23.6 kg (52 lbs.) CO2 per square meter of green roof. This value is equivalent to
6448 g C m−2 which is significantly greater than 378 g C m−2.
Both roofs and LWA based (Lightweight Aggregates) roofs have been found to have a negative
impact on the quality of their resulting run off.
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CONCLUSION
The awareness from the Malaysian society towards implementing green is still at very low level.
The importance of the system had been proven by many experts and practitioners. Whole parties
have to take initiatives to enhance the practice of the green roof system. The correct method of
choosing the recyclable and waste material, plants and vegetation and also the method to
mitigate the storm water runoff. Every aspect of the green roof system must be address including
the law and regulation, design techniques and installation. Also, must be taken into consideration
are the maintenance, monetary, and life cycle analysis of the roof. Therefore, the need to find out
the most efficient and optimum method in this aspect of GBI assessment is important. The rating
tools stated in the reviews are based on temperate climate, where mostly having four seasons
climate, namely summer, autumn, winter and spring. Certainly, this may not be totally applicable
to our environment. Thus, findings suggest that further research on green roof system at the
tropical climate is crucial. Perhaps, more study on countries having the same climate and
environment as Malaysia should be taken into. These include the country’s regulation, social and
culture factors in building and roofs design techniques.
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REFERENCES
1. KeTTHA. (2012) Kementerian Tenaga Teknologi Hijaudan Air

http://www.kettha.gov.my/default.asp; Retrieved 07.08.12, 2012.
2. Sheng, L.X., Mari, T.S., Ariffin, A.R.M., Hussein, H. (2011). Integrated sustainable roof
design. International conference on green buildings and sustainable cities. Procedia
Engineering, 2, 846–852.
3. Ting, K. H. (2012). Tropical green building rating systems: A comparison between green
building index and bca green mark. IEEE World Academy of Science, Engineering and
Technology International Journal of Environmental and Ecological Engineering Vol:7, No:2,
2013 International Scholarly and Scientific Research & Innovation 7(2) 2013 80
ISNI:0000000091950263 Open Science Index, Environmental and Ecological Engineering
Vol:7, No:2, 2013 waset.org/Publication/1385 Business, Engineering & Industrial
Applications Colloquium (BEIAC, Kuala Lumpur Malaysia.
4. Ismail, A., Samad, M.H.A., Rahman, A.M.A. (2008). Using green roof concept as a passive
design technology to minimize the impact of global warming 2nd International conference on
built environment in developing countries (ICBEDC 2008), Kuala Lumpur.
5. Hewage, K., Bianchini, F. (2012). "How “green” are the green roofs? Lifecycle analysis of
green roof materials." Building and Environment 48: 57-65.
6. Whittinghill, L. J., Rowe, D.B. (2011). "The role of green roof technology in urban
agriculture." Renewable Agriculture and Food Systems.doi:10.1017/S174217051100038X.
7. Molineux, C. J., Fentiman, C.H., Gange, A.C. (2009). "Characterizing alternative recycled
waste materials for use as green roof growing media in the U.K." Ecological Engineering 35:
1507-1513.
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8. Ismail, A., Samad, M.H.A., Rahman, A.M.A. (2010). "Potted Plants on Flat Roof as a
Strategy to Reduce Indoor Temperature in Malaysian Climate." American Journal of
Engineering and Applied Sciences 3(3): 534-539.
9. Hermy, M., Mentens, J., Raes, D. (2006). "Green roofs as a tool for solving the rainwater
runoff problem in the urbanized 21st century?" Landscape and Urban Planning 77: 217-226.
10. Aziz, H. A., Ismail, Z. (2011). Design Guideline for Sustainable Green Roof System. 2011
International Symposium on Business, Engineering & Industrial Applications (ISBEIA2011),
Langkawi, Malaysia.
11. Ismail, W. Z. W., lsmail, F., Hashim, A.Z., Irfan, A., Ramli, R. (2009). Potentiality of
ecological friendly effect on human behavior of green building design. 1st National
Conference on Environment Behavior Studies, Faculty of Architecture, Planning and
Surveying (FSPU), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Shah Alam.
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No. Descriptions Page No.

Protected membrane roof

Green-roof water buffering

SIS (styrene-isoprene-styrene) is another modifier used commercially. SIS-modified bitumen is

PVC (vinyl) membrane roofing

1. “SOME COMMON MAINTENANCE AND BUILDING DEFECTS”, prepared by

2. UNDERSTANDING COMMON BUILDING DEFECTS – THE DILAPIDATION

3. Assessment of Significant Causes to Building Defects M.A. Othuman Mydin1 , N.A.

4. The 2nd International Conference on Rehabilitation and Maintenance in Civil

Leaks and moisture

Maintenance of Roof Buildings

FACTORS OF AFFECTING CONCRETE FLAT ROOF DEFECTS

Lack of Roof Maintenance

SUGGESTION OF REMEDIAL WORKS FOR ROOFING DEFECTS

· Cultural attributes and historical background of heritage buildings

To be effective, the practice of the dilapidation survey should involve a multidisciplinary

Design and Construction of Flat Roof

Roof Membrane Systems

Liquid-applied membranes are seamless, semi-flexible, easy to apply, detail, maintain

Another type of pre-formed membrane is made of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). Although

Good Detailing Practices for Liquid Applied Membranes

Forsyth, M. (2007). Understanding Historic Building Conservation. Blackwell Publishing Ltd,

Venkatesh J (2005), An Introduction to Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), The Plant

Rozita Aris (2006). Maintenance Factors in Building Design. Diambil dari

COMPONENTS OF GREEN ROOF

The 3 types of green roof

2) Extensive green roofs

The green roof consists of 8 superimposed layers.

1. The load-bearing component of the roof

2. The moisture barrier or vapor barrier

Heat flow is an inevitable consequence of contact between objects of different

4. The waterproofing membrane (root barrier)

A waterproofing membrane is a thin layer of water-tight material that is laid over a

5. The drainage layer

6. The filtering layers

7. The growing medium (substrate)

INTERVIEW AND CASE STUDY ABOUT GREEN ROOF

HERIOT-WATT UNIVERSITY MALAYSIA, PUTRAJAYA CAMPUS

During Construction Stage

1. Thermal reduction and energy conservation

Green roofs can reduce storm water runoff via water-wise gardening techniques. Green roofs

5. Costs and financial benefits

DISADVANTAGES OF GREEN ROOF

2. Cost Disadvantages of Green Roofs

3. Damage from Leaks

4. Limited Choice of Plants

5. Mass of the soil substrate and retained water

1. KeTTHA. (2012) Kementerian Tenaga Teknologi Hijaudan Air

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