A proposed flat roof variant for the low technology tropical environment

Abstract

Reports on the failure of built-up bituminous roofs over concrete decks exposed to tropical conditions indicate a worse than below average performance, and thus an urgent need for a re-assessment of the use of this material within this environment. This paper reviews the modes of failure of this roof system under tropical exposure with a view to ascertaining the reasons for the very high rates of failure recorded. It also reviews the trends in this roof type and proposes a system that will be more durable under low technology tropical exposure.


(Botswana Journal of Technology: 2002 11(1): 44-51)