Le Méridien Hotels
Dubai · 2022
Roof reroofing with APP two-layer system
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Waterproofing Systems · Torch-applied membranes
APP, SBS, mineral-finished, self-protected. Two-layer or single-layer. We prime, we torch, we overlap to the millimetre, and we issue the IR with photographs of every lap.
Approved applicator · brand-certified
What we do
Bitumen membrane waterproofing is the oldest reliable system in the UAE. Done right, you get 10–15 years of leak-free service. Done wrong — wrong lap dimension, unprimed substrate, blowtorch too close, fishmouths uncrimped — you get a callback in 18 months.
We torch-apply APP-modified and SBS-modified bituminous membranes from manufacturers including Mapei (Polyfond, Polyplan) and X-Calibur. 4 mm thickness is standard; some applications take a 4+4 two-layer build-up. We prime every substrate. We honour 100 mm end laps and 150 mm side laps without exception. And we photograph laps for the handover pack.
Build-up
Lap & overlap discipline
System comparison
All three are bituminous. They behave differently under temperature, on a UAE roof and on a basement wall. We default to APP for UAE flat roofs and recommend others only when the brief calls for them.
| APP modified | SBS modified | Self-adhered | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Application | Torch-applied | Torch / mop / cold | Peel-and-stick |
| Climate fit | Hot — UV stable | Cold flex | Mid-temperature |
| Service temp | −10 to +110 °C | −25 to +90 °C | −20 to +80 °C |
| Thickness | 4 mm | 4 mm | 1.5–3 mm |
| Best for | UAE flat roofs, podiums | Cooler regions, joints | Fast-track re-roofing |
| Lifespan | 10–15 yr | 10–15 yr | 8–12 yr |
| We default to | ★ Recommended for UAE | Specific applications | Re-roofing only |
Our process
Where it fits
Reference projects
Le Méridien Hotels
Dubai · 2022
Roof reroofing with APP two-layer system
Ahlatci Gold Refinery
Industrial · 2023
High-security facility roof waterproofing
Dubai Hills Villas
Dubai Hills · 2023
Cluster villa roof waterproofing
Warranty
10-year workmanship warranty on two-layer APP systems. 5-year on single-layer. Manufacturer warranty on the material itself per the supplier's terms.
Warranty term
Frequently asked
APP — for the UAE climate. APP polymer is UV-stable and rated for service to +110 °C, which suits exposed flat roofs and podiums baking in summer. SBS shines in colder climates where elastomeric flex at low temperatures matters. We specify SBS only for specific applications where joint movement or low service temperature is in the brief.
Torch-applied gives a true monolithic bond with bitumen bead visible at every lap — you can see the seal. Self-adhered systems are faster but rely on pressure-sensitive adhesive that can creep over time. For new-build podium and roof waterproofing we always torch. Self-adhered is reserved for fast-track re-roofing where torching isn't safe (live occupied building, fuel proximity).
We patch — same membrane, same primer, 150 mm overlap onto sound membrane. We don't recommend self-adhered patches over torched membranes — they bond inconsistently. If you're planning HVAC kit at handover, give us the layout and we'll add factory-finished puddle flanges before the second layer goes down.
Sometimes. We core-sample to verify the existing membrane is sound and dry, do a bond pull test, and only torch the new layer if both pass. If either fails, the existing roof comes off — there's no clever way around a wet substrate.
150 mm minimum upturn onto the parapet, mechanically fixed at the top edge with termination bar + sealant. Always reinforced with a separate piece of membrane at the corner. The detail is what fails most often on bitumen roofs — we photograph it for every handover.
Yes — with a root-resistant membrane (APP-R grade) and proper geotextile + drainage layer above. Standard APP is not root-resistant. Specify the green-roof variant before quoting.
Mineral-finished is the standard exposed top layer — coloured granules embedded for UV protection and walkability. Slate-finished is heavier and more decorative, used where the roof is visible. Function-wise they perform identically.
Yes — and we recommend it before any insulation or paving goes down. 24–48 hr flood at 50 mm head, perimeter monitored, documented with photos. Costs almost nothing now, saves a six-figure rip-up later.
Related disciplines
Free site survey across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. Written quotation back within 48 working hours.
Brand-certified applicator