Flat Roof & Terrace Waterproofing

A permanent, 5-year-warranted solution to water leaks on your flat roof or terrace, using liquid-applied and torch-on bituminous membranes. A specialist team with 15+ years of experience in Istanbul and Izmir.

Quick Answer

Flat roof & terrace waterproofing is the external coating application that protects roof and terrace surfaces against rainwater, snowmelt and standing water. After the surface is cleaned, the falls and outlet points are checked; then, depending on the situation, a liquid-applied membrane or a torch-on bituminous membrane is installed fully bonded. Junctions and detail points are reinforced and a flood test is carried out. On a standard residential terrace, the application is completed in 3-5 days and comes with a 5-year written warranty.

What Is Flat Roof & Terrace Waterproofing?

Flat roof and terrace waterproofing is the technical sealing process applied to protect flat roof and terrace surfaces against the damaging effects of rain, snow, wind and UV radiation. Using liquid-applied membranes, torch-on bituminous membranes or hybrid systems, a watertight barrier is formed over the flat roof surface. With correct application, the roof — the most vulnerable point of any building — remains reliably protected for many years.

With more than 15 years of site experience and its own Dryvatec materials, İMG Yapı Yalıtım Mühendislik A.Ş. is one of Türkiye's leading applicators of flat roof and terrace waterproofing. Thousands of square metres of terrace waterproofing have been successfully completed on residential, commercial, industrial and public buildings.

Terrace waterproofing team at work — membrane installation
The Problem

Why Do Water Problems Occur on Flat Roofs?

Flat roofs are the largest surfaces of a building directly exposed to the weather. Rain, snow, hail, wind and intense UV radiation continually wear down the waterproofing material on the roof surface. Over time, membrane ageing, thermal expansion and contraction, mechanical impact and poorly executed details cause the waterproofing to break down, and water begins to seep into the building.

In Türkiye's climate in particular, the temperature difference between summer and winter can exceed 50°C. Such a large differential in thermal movement creates stress between the membrane and the concrete, leading to cracks. In winter, water that ponds on the surface freezes, and the resulting expansion widens existing cracks further — so the leakage worsens with every passing season.

A lack of falls, or inadequate falls, is one of the most common problems on flat roofs. According to TSE standards, flat roof terraces must have a minimum fall of 1-2%. Where the falls are inadequate, rainwater collects on the terrace surface and ponding forms. A membrane under a constant head of water ages rapidly, its laps open up and leakage begins. Blocked outlets make the situation even worse.

According to the statistics, more than 30% of building damage originates from roof-related water leaks. The cost of repairing roof water damage can reach 5-8 times the cost of timely waterproofing. Early intervention and a correctly executed waterproofing application protect the structure and keep costs to a minimum.

Flat roof water leak — condition before the application

Standing Water and Ponding

Pools of water on the terrace surface caused by inadequate falls or blocked outlets, a constant head of water and membrane wear

UV Damage and Ageing

Loss of elasticity, cracking and embrittlement of the membrane under constant exposure to sunlight

Thermal Movement

Concrete and membrane expanding and contracting at different rates with summer-winter temperature swings, opening up the laps

Structural Damage

Penetrating water causing rebar corrosion, concrete deterioration, ceiling leaks and internal damage

Symptoms

Signs of a Flat Roof Water Leak

If you have noticed one or more of the following signs, your flat roof has a waterproofing problem. Early intervention minimises structural damage and repair costs.

Water Stains and Dripping from the Ceiling

Water stains, damp patches or active dripping points on the top-floor ceiling. Stains that darken in wet weather and partly dry out in dry spells indicate a terrace-related leak.

Membrane Blistering and Debonding

Blistering, ballooning or edge debonding of the membrane on the terrace surface. Water and air trapped underneath lift the membrane off the concrete and leakage begins.

Peeling Paint and Plaster

Blistered paint, fallen plaster and limescale stains on the top-floor ceiling. A clear sign that the leak has reached the interior and is growing.

Mould and Fungal Growth

Mould patches forming in ceiling corners, at wall-ceiling junctions or in the rooms beneath the terrace. A herald of chronic damp and leakage.

Ponding on the Terrace

Pools of water remaining on the terrace surface long after rainfall, failing to reach the outlets. An indicator of a falls problem or blocked drainage.

Electrical Faults

Roof leakage reaching electrical cables and light fittings. Requires urgent attention due to the risk of short circuits and fire.

Choosing a Method

Method Comparison: Liquid Membrane vs Torch-On Bituminous Membrane

There are two main methods for terrace waterproofing. The most suitable one for your building is determined through an on-site survey.

CriterionLiquid MembraneTorch-On Bituminous Membrane
Application MethodApplied by brush, roller or sprayBonded by torching (open flame)
Joints and LapsNo seams or laps — a continuous coatingLap joints where the rolls overlap
DetailingEasy — advantageous at pipe penetrations and cornersHarder — details require extra workmanship
Mechanical StrengthMedium — a protection layer is recommendedHigh — withstands heavy-duty use
UV ResistanceGood to very good, depending on typeGood — high on mineral-finished grades
FlexibilityVery high — accommodates cracksHigh — varies by APP/SBS grade
Speed of ApplicationFast — advantageous on large areasMedium — requires roll laying and torching

At İMG Yapı Yalıtım Mühendislik A.Ş.we carry out both methods. During the on-site survey we determine the most suitable method for your flat roof's condition, its falls, its intended use and your budget, and deliver a solution backed by a 5-year warranty.

Application Process

The Application Process: Step by Step

A systematic terrace waterproofing process developed over more than 15 years of site experience, compliant with TSE standards.

1

Survey & Damage Assessment

Our specialist team inspects the flat roof thoroughly to establish the condition of the existing waterproofing, the integrity of the membrane, ponding areas, the falls, blocked outlets and a crack map. Sub-surface moisture distribution is checked with thermal imaging and moisture meters. The origin and extent of the leak are identified so the most suitable method and cost plan can be drawn up. An accurate survey is the foundation of a successful application.

2

Removal of the Old Covering

Damaged, blistered or life-expired coverings such as old membrane, screed, ceramic tiles or mosaic are removed mechanically. The reinforced concrete roof slab is exposed. Old adhesive residues and loose particles are cleaned off. At this stage, structural cracks, segregation zones and damaged areas in the concrete surface are identified in detail. Waterproofing applied without stripping is short-lived and cannot be considered for a warranty.

3

Surface Preparation

The concrete surface is mechanically cleaned; dust, dirt and loose particles are removed. Structural cracks and broken areas are repaired with a purpose-made repair mortar. The areas around the outlets and pipe penetrations are prepared. The falls are checked; if found inadequate, they are corrected with a screed to falls. Purpose-made detail profiles are installed at corner junctions and edge returns. A primer is applied to improve the adhesion of the membrane.

4

Membrane Application

Depending on the building’s condition and the survey report, either a liquid membrane or a torch-on bituminous membrane is installed. The liquid membrane is applied by brush, roller or airless spray in at least two coats. The bituminous membrane is melted with a torch and laid with overlapping laps. In both methods, the critical points — around outlets, pipe penetrations, wall-floor junctions and expansion joints — are reinforced with polyester fleece. Dryvatec membrane materials are manufactured in compliance with TSE EN standards.

5

Protection Layer

A protective layer suited to the intended use is applied over the membrane. On terraces open to foot traffic, a protective screed and ceramic tiling are installed; on non-trafficked roofs, a UV-resistant reflective top coat or mineral finish is applied. The protection layer shields the membrane from mechanical impact, UV radiation and thermal shock, extending its life. The outlets and overflow pipes are checked to ensure they are clear and working.

6

Flood Test & Warranty Certificate

Once the entire application is complete, the terrace is flooded with water and a 48-hour watertightness test is carried out. During the test, the ceiling below and the junctions are closely monitored. After the test is passed, the space is handed back and a 5-year written warranty certificate is issued. Photographs of the application area are archived and your project is kept on record.

Technical Detail

Technical Requirements for the Application

For terrace waterproofing to be successful and long-lasting, the following technical requirements must be met in full.

  • Stripping the old covering is essential: Damaged or blistered membrane, screed and tiles must be removed and the reinforced concrete surface exposed.
  • Surface dryness: For a liquid membrane application the concrete surface must be dry. For a torch-on bituminous membrane there must be no standing water on the surface.
  • Ambient temperature: The ambient temperature during application must be between +5°C and +35°C. No application is carried out in freezing conditions or extreme heat.
  • Weather conditions: No application is carried out in the rain or on days when rain is expected. The surface must be kept dry until the membrane has cured.
  • Minimum falls: Flat roof terraces must have a minimum fall of 1-2% for water drainage. Where the falls are inadequate, a screed to falls must be installed.
  • Primer application: A suitable primer must always be applied to improve the membrane's adhesion to the concrete surface.
  • Detail reinforcement: The areas around outlets, pipe penetrations, wall-floor junctions and expansion joints must be reinforced with polyester fleece.
  • Minimum number of coats: A liquid membrane must be applied in at least 2 coats; a torch-on bituminous membrane in a single layer with reinforced details.
  • Protection layer: Mechanical protection (screed, tiles) or UV protection (a reflective top coat) must be applied over the membrane.
  • Flood test: After the application, a 48-hour flood test must be carried out to verify watertightness.
Our Real Projects

Application Photographs

Real application stages from our terrace waterproofing projects. Click the photographs to enlarge them.

The Materials We Use on Terraces: Dryvatec

In our terrace waterproofing work we use the liquid membrane, bituminous membrane and primer products of our own brand, Dryvatec. Because we manufacture the materials ourselves, quality control rests with us from start to finish. We work directly as the manufacturer, with no middleman margin.

Many waterproofing companies on the market buy materials from various brands; we use Dryvatec products made to our own formulation. This gives us full control over material quality, batch consistency and the success of the application. Dryvatec products are manufactured in compliance with TSE EN standards.

Liquid MembraneBituminous MembranePrimer
Dryvatec Products →
Video

Our Terrace Waterproofing Work

Watch real site footage and application details on our YouTube channel.

Why İMG Yapı Yalıtım Mühendislik?

Why Does Choosing the Right Contractor for Terrace Waterproofing Matter?

The wrong material or a poor application can make the problem worse instead of solving it. Choosing the right contractor for roof waterproofing is critical.

5-Year Warranty

We issue a 5-year written warranty certificate for every terrace waterproofing application. Verified by a flood test — any issue covered by the warranty is resolved at no charge.

Our Own Brand: Dryvatec

We manufacture the membrane and primer materials we use ourselves. No middleman margin, and quality control rests entirely with us. Direct manufacturer assurance.

Detail Engineering

Outlet surrounds, pipe penetrations, expansion joints and edge returns — we execute with precision the critical details that determine the success of terrace waterproofing.

15+ Years of Experience

Since 2009 we have completed thousands of square metres of flat roof waterproofing. We have experience with every roof type, every climate and every material.

Istanbul & Izmir

Rapid response to every district from our Maltepe (Istanbul) and Konak (Izmir) offices. Local teams and material depots in both major cities.

48-Hour Flood Test

After every terrace application we carry out a 48-hour flood test. An application that fails the test is neither handed over nor warranted.

In-Depth Guide

What to Watch Out For in Terrace Waterproofing

Flat roof waterproofing is one of a building's most critical protective layers. The wrong material, inadequate surface preparation or missed details quickly lead to leaks and costly repairs. Below we have compiled the key points to watch for a successful terrace waterproofing project.

Falls and Water Drainage

On flat roofs, correct falls are the only way to drain water. According to TSE standards, flat roof terraces must have a minimum fall of 1-2% towards the outlets. Where the falls are inadequate, rainwater collects on the surface and seriously shortens the membrane's life. At İMG Yapı Yalıtım Mühendislik we check the falls on every application and correct them with a screed to falls where necessary. The number and position of the outlets also directly affect drainage capacity; too few outlets lead to ponding.

Detail Points

In terrace waterproofing, the great majority of leaks originate not from the flat field area but from the detail points. Outlet surrounds, pipe and service penetrations, wall-floor junctions, parapet upstands and expansion joints are the most critical points. At these locations, reinforcing the membrane with polyester fleece, using purpose-made detail profiles and strengthening the junctions with an extra coat is essential. Detail engineering is the single most important factor in the success of terrace waterproofing.

The Importance of the Protection Layer

Left exposed, a membrane is directly subjected to UV radiation, mechanical impact and thermal shock. This seriously shortens its life. On terraces open to foot traffic, a protective screed and ceramic tiling should be installed; on non-trafficked roofs, a UV-resistant reflective top coat or mineral finish should be applied. The protection layer not only shields the membrane but also contributes to the building's energy efficiency.

Maintenance and Inspection

Even the highest-quality terrace waterproofing cannot last without regular maintenance. The terrace surface should be inspected at least twice a year — in autumn and in spring. The outlets and overflow pipes must be kept clear, and leaves and debris removed. If blistering, tearing or debonding of the membrane is caught early, a minor repair prevents major costs later. At İMG Yapı Yalıtım Mühendislik we provide periodic inspections throughout the warranty period.

Terrace waterproofing detail work — membrane reinforcement around an outlet
Application Areas

Which Types of Terrace Do We Work On?

We carry out every kind of flat roof and terrace waterproofing on residential, commercial, industrial and public buildings.

Residential Flat Roofs

Permanent waterproofing with liquid and torch-on bituminous membranes on apartment, residence and villa flat roofs. Purpose-made detailing for roof terraces converted into living spaces.

Commercial Building Roofs

Large-area terrace waterproofing on office tower, business centre, shopping centre and hotel roofs. Purpose-made protection details on roofs carrying mechanical plant.

Industrial Roofs

Heavy-duty membrane applications on the flat roofs of factories, warehouses and production facilities. Fast, durable solutions on wide-span roofs.

Public Buildings

Terrace waterproofing to TSE standards on the roofs of schools, hospitals, public buildings and sports facilities.

Service Areas

Terrace Waterproofing in Istanbul and Izmir

From our two offices we provide terrace waterproofing across every district of Istanbul and Izmir.

Terrace waterproofing service in Istanbul
Istanbul

From our Maltepe office we provide terrace waterproofing to every district of Istanbul. On-site surveys and applications on both the European and Asian sides.

KadıköyMaltepeÜsküdarBeşiktaşŞişliBeylikdüzüPendikBakırköyAtaşehirKartal
Aydınevler Mah. Kırçiçeği Cad. No:25/F, Maltepe / Istanbul
Terrace waterproofing service in Izmir
Izmir

From our Konak office we provide terrace waterproofing to every district of Izmir. A wide service network across the Aegean region.

KonakBornovaKarşıyakaBayraklıBucaKarabağlarÇiğliGaziemirUrlaTorbalı
Mersinli, 1202. Sk. No:174/B, 35170 Konak / Izmir
Frequently Asked Questions

Terrace Waterproofing — Your Questions Answered

We have compiled the questions our clients ask most often, together with our technical answers.

Related Services

Related Services

Box Gutter Waterproofing

A permanent solution to leaks at concealed box gutters and roof junctions using membrane and detail applications.

Details

Wet Room Waterproofing

Liquid membrane waterproofing for bathrooms, WCs, kitchens and wet areas. Permanently prevent leakage into the floor below.

Details

Expansion Joint Waterproofing

A permanent solution to leaks at expansion and movement joints using flexible membrane and profile systems.

Details

Let Our Specialists Assess Your Flat Roof

For the water problem on your flat roof, fill in the survey request form or give us a call. Our technical team will get back to you as soon as possible to arrange an on-site assessment and survey.

Monday-Saturday 08:00-18:00