Roof systems manufacturer Marley is advising specifiers to review pitched roof specifications, following the launch of a new Dry Fix Standard today (31 January).
BS 8612: Dry-fixed Ridge, Hip and Verge Systems for Slating and Tiling sets minimum performance requirements for dry fix products for the first time, following concerns about the durability and weather tightness of some cheaper systems.
While specifiers may have previously left the choice of dry fix system down to the supply chain, Marley is warning that specifications should be updated to ensure compliance with the new Standard.
Stuart Nicholson, roof systems specialist at Marley, explains: “Since the introduction of the revised BS 5534, there has been a significant shift in the market towards the use of dry fix systems. However, the popularity of the products means that there has been a huge increase in the amount of systems available. While they may look broadly similar, the quality and performance of the components used can vary significantly, with some systems value engineered to bring the cost down.
“The introduction of BS 8612 should improve consistency and reduce the amount of inferior systems on the market, but as it is not a legal requirement, specifiers need to make sure the supply chain is using compliant products on their projects. Therefore, even if they don’t name a specific manufacturer, specifiers should state that the required dry fix systems must meet BS 8612 or BBA requirements. This will protect the security of the roof, as well as their liability in the event of any future claim.”
BS 8612 covers dry fixed ridge and hip systems connected to timber ridge / hip battens, ridge boards or hip rafters and dry-fixed verge systems, which are installed with slating and tiling.
Stuart adds: “As the standard of pitched roofing comes under increasing scrutiny, one of the best ways to ensure compliance with both BS 5534 and BS 8612, is to specify a full roof system from a trusted manufacturer. This also helps to maintain greater control of the supply chain, protecting the original specification and reducing the risk of product substitution further down the line.
“At Marley, the required dry fix products have been put through rigorous testing to ensure they meet, or exceed, the expectations of the new BS 8612 standard. This means specifiers can have peace of mind that all of our roof systems are fully compliant with British Standards, backed up by the assurance of a 15 year system guarantee.”
BS 8612 also introduces new guidance on dry verge fixing. This means that dry verge products can no longer be installed just with a nail fixing into the end grain of the batten. Instead, mechanical engagement must be on the faces of the batten. In anticipation of this change, Marley has launched a new Batten End Clip, to help contractors ensure that the dry verge is fixed securely into the end of the batten. The new clip requires no nails and has sharp teeth which grip onto the batten, making it extremely secure, as well as being very quick to push or hammer into place.
For further advice and information, visit www.marley.co.uk or contact the technical team on 01283 722588.
