Vapour Control - The Critical Layer

The Vapour Control Layer is the first layer of attachment to the substrate and represents a critical layer in any flat roofing system.

Installation of the VCL is paramount to resist wind uplift forces and to keep the whole system attached to the structure with it’s primary function of preventing moisture vapour from within the building affecting the thermal insulation through condensation. 

For substrates such as plywood, and other combustible surfaces it is recommended that a TorchSafe T.A. vapour control layer is used.

Specially formulated from self adhesive SBS modified bitumen formulations, the membranes are laid cold into a T.A. butyl activator which reacts with the bitumen to provide a secure initial bond to the substrate.

Choice of VCL

Anderson TorchSafe systems offer two vapour control layers which are thermically activated allowing for secure attachment to the substrate, protection of the structure from flame and providing a suitable base for the installation of the thermal insulation.

TorchSafe T.A. VCL Stripes A SBS modified bitumen VCL reinforced with extra strong glass fibre combined with PET aluminium core. It has a self adhesive underside with release film and an upper surface covered with thermically activated stripes. Full activation and bond strength to the substrate is achieved by torch heating the stripes which then acts as the attachment method for the thermal Insulation. The upper surface is manufactured with a 75mm wide bitumen selvedge along one long edge finished with a release film allowing a safe watertight overlap to be formed.  Read more about TorchSafe T.A. VCL Stripes
TorchSafe T.A. VCL Sanded A SBS modified bitumen VCL reinforced with an extra strong glass fibre fleece combined with a PET aluminium core. It has a 75mm wide bitumen selvedge along one long edge finished with a release film allowing a safe watertight overlap to be formed and the fine granular sand upper surface allows the use of Icopal Insulation Adhesive, providing a completely cold method of protecting the combustible surfaces from naked flames. Hot air can be used to increase surface temperature and ensure the correct level of attachment is achieved. Read more about TorchSafe T.A. VCL Sanded