EN 1849 Flexible Sheets for Waterproofing - Determination of Thickness and Mass per Unit Area

The European standard “EN 1849 Flexible sheets for waterproofing - Determination of thickness and mass per unit area” consists of the following sub-sections published under the same title:

The standard “EN 1849-1 Part 1: Bitumen sheets for roof waterproofing” describes the method for determining the thickness and mass per unit area of bitumen sheets used for roof waterproofing. Thickness measurement is applicable to most bitumen sheets, including factory-applied mineral-coated sheets.

The thickness determination method is not applicable to sheets with a pronounced surface texture or sheets with a significant amount of fibrous support layer. When these products need to be characterized, mass per unit area should be used instead. The mass per unit area determination method serves to verify the value stated by the manufacturer for informational purposes and is not applicable to perforated materials.

For the purposes of this standard, the following terms and definitions apply:

Thickness: The dimension perpendicular to the surface of the plate.
Distinct surface texture: A textured pattern or relief on one or both surfaces that affects the thickness by more than 10 percent.
Essential fibrous support: A layer of woven or non-woven fabric made of synthetic fibers weighing more than 80 g/m2, fixed to the bottom of the panel.
Embossing: A textured pattern intentionally applied to one or both surfaces of a plate during the manufacturing process.
Edge: The area of the waterproofing board free of granules or similar surface protection, used to help join overlaps.

In the construction industry, bitumen-based waterproofing sheets (often referred to as roofing felt or membranes) are a traditional and widely used solution for protecting flat or low-slope roofs from water seepage. Derived from asphalt, these materials provide durable and cost-effective barriers. Standardized testing is essential to ensure their quality and performance. The EN 1849-1 standard is a key one, specifying methods for measuring the thickness and mass per unit area of these bitumen sheets. This standard helps manufacturers, builders, and regulators maintain consistency across products.

For asphalt slabs:

Thickness: Affects puncture resistance, flexibility, and overall durability. Thicker sheets withstand mechanical stress, pedestrian traffic, and environmental impacts better. However, prominent textures or fibrous supports can complicate measurements, requiring specialized methods.
Mass per unit area: Reflects the material composition and density. It is an important indicator of bitumen content and reinforcement, and affects thermal performance and longevity. Manufacturers declare this value, and tests confirm it.

Consistent measurements enable fair comparisons, quality control, and reliable installation (e.g., proper overlay).

The main application areas are:

In construction: Bitumen sheets are a fundamental material in multi-layered roofing systems, often used in multiple layers for superior waterproofing. Compliance with the EN 1849-1 standard ensures their performance in various climates, reducing leaks and extending roof life.
For manufacturers: CE marking is required for access to the European market.

The EN 1849-1 standard is for conventional bitumen (asphalt-based), while the EN 1849-1 standard targets modern synthetic plastic/rubber sheets (e.g., PVC, ethylene propylene diene monomer), and different materials require tailored testing.

The standard “EN 1849-2 Part 2: Plastic and rubber sheets for roof waterproofing” describes methods for determining the thickness and mass per unit area of plastic and rubber sheets used for roof waterproofing.

For the purposes of this standard, the following terms and definitions apply:

Surface texture: A textured pattern on one or both surfaces of the sheet, creating a difference of no more than 0,15 mm between the total thickness and the effective thickness.
Surface profile (surface structure): This is the raised area on the surface of the sheet that creates a difference exceeding 0,15 mm between the total thickness and the effective thickness.
Mechanically effective thickness: The thickness of the waterproofing board, measured using a mechanical measuring device.
Backing: A layer of woven or non-woven fabric made of synthetic or mineral fibers or other materials, fixed to the bottom of the panel.
Optical effective thickness: This is the thickness of the waterproofing sheet measured with an optical measuring device. The total thickness is an indicator for determining which thickness measurement method is necessary. If an optical method is used for measurement, the result of the effective thickness is the optical effective thickness.
Mechanical total thickness: The thickness of a plate measured with a mechanical measuring device.
Optical total thickness: The thickness of a plate measured with an optical measuring device.

Test samples are taken in accordance with the EN 13416 standard.

In the world of construction and building materials, ensuring reliable waterproofing is crucial for the longevity and safety of structures, especially roofs. One important standard playing a vital role in this area is EN 1849-2. This standard provides precise methods for testing plastic and rubber sheets used in roof waterproofing. For manufacturers, contractors, or architects, understanding this standard helps ensure that materials meet quality criteria.

Thickness and mass per unit area directly affect the performance of a plate:

Thickness: Determines the sheet's resistance to punctures, weathering, and UV degradation. Thicker sheets generally offer better durability but may be less flexible.
Mass per unit area: Indicates material density and composition. A consistent mass ensures uniform quality, critical for overlapping seams and overall waterproof integrity.

By standardizing these tests, EN 1849-2 helps manufacturers produce reliable products and allows specifiers to fairly compare options.

The main application areas are:

In construction: Suitable panels ensure roofs withstand harsh weather conditions, reducing leaks and maintenance costs. They are used in commercial buildings, residential complexes, and industrial facilities.
For manufacturers: CE marking generally requires EN 1849-2 certification, which opens the doors to the EU market.
Environmental impact: Proper testing promotes efficient material use, minimizing waste.

For many years, our organization, with its competent and experienced staff, has been understanding the needs of its customers, providing the advanced testing services they require, and assisting in the establishment, implementation, and improvement of management systems. Within this framework, we also provide testing services to businesses in accordance with the "EN 1849 Flexible sheets for waterproofing - Determination of thickness and mass per unit area" standard.