protec

Perlite

Have a project in Mind?

More Information

Perlite Thermal Insulation

Perlite’s versatility allows it to be incorporated into various roof assemblies:

1. Insulating Concrete

This is the most common use of perlite for roof insulation. Instead of using sand and gravel, expanded perlite aggregate is mixed with cement and water.

Benefit: The resulting screed has a significantly lower density and much higher R-value (thermal resistance) compared to standard concrete. It provides a strong, load-bearing substrate that can accept waterproofing membranes (like those offered by PROTEC).

Tapered Systems: Perlite insulating concrete can be tapered (poured with varying thickness) to
direct rainwater to drains. This is crucial for preventing ponding water,

2. Loose-Fill Insulation

In some cases, particularly between decking and a concrete topping, loosefill perlite may be used.

Benefit:
It fills irregular spaces completely and provides uniform, seamless insulation with no thermal bridging.

3.Perlite Insulating Boards

Perlite is mixed with binders and formed into rigid, prefabricated
boards.

Benefit:
These boards offer very good compressive strength and are used
under waterproofing membranes or as base layers in built-up roofing systems.

Advantages of Perlite for Roofs

Feature Benefits of Root Systems Brand Alignment (PROTEC)
Fire Resistance
Non-combustible (Class A1/Class 1 rating). Withstands temperatures up to 1200 C without structural failure.
Trust & Safety. Meets stringent building codes.
Lightweight
Reduces the total weight placed on the roof structure, which is vital for large commercial or industrial buildings
Precision. Allows for more efficient structural design.
Seamless & Taperable
Can be poured to create a seamless slope, ensuring positive drainage and eliminating thermal bridging.
Engineered Endurance. Prevents ponding water, extending the life of the waterproofing membrane.
Thermal Stability
Maintains its insulation value over time without sagging, shrinking, or deteriorating due to moisture or temperature cycles.
Long-Term Performance. Guarantees Rvalue for the life of the roof.
Compatibility
Chemically inert and fully compatible with most liquid and sheet-based waterproofing membranes.
System Solution. Integrates perfectly with PROTEC’s waterproofing products.

Key Advantages of Perlite Over Thermostyrene (EPS) Foam

Feature Expanded Perlite (Mineral) Thermostyrene (EPS Foam - Plastic) Expanded Perlite (Mineral)
Fire Resistance
Non-combustible (Class A1/Class 1 rating). Withstands temperatures up to 1200 C without structural failure.
Combustible. Melts and releases dense, toxic black smoke at temperatures around 100-120 C
Safety & Integrity: Essential for industrial sites, high-rise buildings, and applications requiring fire-retardant properties.
Chemical Stability
Chemically inert. Does not degrade, dissolve, or react with common chemicals, asphalt, or cement.
Vulnerable to Solvents. Can be dissolved or damaged by organic solvents often found in roofing adhesives, some paints, and certain waterproofing materials.
Durability & Compatibility: Ensures the insulation doesn’t compromise the PROTEC waterproofing system.
Dimensional Stability
Excellent. Does not shrink, expand, or warp significantly with
Poor. Can experience thermal contraction and expansion, leading to
Precision: Maintains a seamless insulation layer, avoiding costly heat loss through gaps.
Feature Expanded Perlite (Mineral) Thermostyrene (EPS Foam - Plastic) Advantages for PROTEC Clients
Temperature changes.
gaps, shrinkage, and thermal bridging over time.
heat loss through gaps.
Vapor Permeability
Breathable. Allows moisture vapor to pass through, reducing the risk of water trapping and resulting mold or corrosion.
Vapor Barrier. Has extremely low permeability; traps any moisture that enters the assembly, requiring complex venting.
Longevity: Protects the underlying structure (concrete/steel) from internal condensation and corrosion damage
Application
Versatile. Used as loose-fill, insulating concrete screeds (tapered), and aggregates.
Limited. Primarily used in pre-formed rigid boards.
Tapered Roofs: Perlite concrete is ideal for creating sloped drainage on flat roofs where EPS boards would require complex cutting and multiple sizes.
Compressive Strength
Good. Insulating concrete provides a load-bearing surface.
Can be poor, especially under continuous load (creep).
Load Bearing: Suitable for roof decks that need to withstand foot traffic or the weight of equipment

Developed for professionals who demand precision and reliability, Protebond is essential for

Mortar Applications:

Significantly enhancing the bond strength of various mortar mixes

Cementitious Works:

Acting as a high-performance additive across a wide range of critical concrete and cement-based repairs and installations