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Method for evaluating the snagging propensity of roofing membranes in buildings by roosting bats

Essah, E. A. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1349-5167, Russell, S. J., Waring, S. D., Fergusonc, J., Williams, C., Walsh, K., Dyer, S. and Raynor, R. (2020) Method for evaluating the snagging propensity of roofing membranes in buildings by roosting bats. Building Research & Information, 48 (8). pp. 886-898. ISSN 1466-4321

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To link to this item DOI: 10.1080/09613218.2020.1763773

Abstract/Summary

Many buildings suitable as bat roosts contain synthetic roofing materials, hereafter referred to as Non-Bitumen Coated Roofing Membranes (NBCRMs) - this includes Breathable Roofing Membranes (BRMs) and non-Permeable Roofing Membranes (nPRMs), rather than 1F felts. Building regulations require all construction materials to be fit for purpose, but some BRMs (although appropriate for their intended purpose) can potentially threaten the viability of existing, legally protected roosts because of the way bats physically interact with their surface. With the assistance of the Isle of Wight Bat Hospital and real-world observations of how bats physically interact with NBCRMs within a roof void, we present a new laboratory test method capable of reproducing the progressive disintegration of NBCRM surfaces due to the plucking effect of bat claws. The resistance to NBCRM disintegration was characterised using a modified laboratory fabric pilling box test method. The method reproduced the ‘fluffing’ effects and projections of loops of filaments on the surface of BRMs that have been observed within bat roosts. It was established that spunbond nonwoven BRMs, can be highly susceptible to surface disintegration. The newly developed method is intended to aid selection of NBCRMs that reduce the risk to bats in their roosts, promoting bat conservation.

Item Type:Article
Refereed:Yes
Divisions:Interdisciplinary centres and themes > Centre for Technologies for Sustainable Built Environments (TSBE)
Science > School of the Built Environment > Energy and Environmental Engineering group
ID Code:90562
Publisher:Taylor & Francis

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