The Liquid Roofing and Waterproofing Association (LRWA) has published an updated version of its Hot Melt Code of Practice, bringing the guidance into line with the latest requirements of BS 6229:2025 and reinforcing best practice across the flat roofing sector.
Effective from 14 August 2026, Version 2.2 of the Code has been developed with technical experts from the UK’s hot melt waterproofing industry and is available free of charge to specifiers, contractors, clients, suppliers and other members of the supply chain.
The updated guidance covers the selection, design, specification, installation and maintenance of hot-applied polymer-modified bitumen waterproofing systems, providing a single reference point to support consistency and compliance throughout a project. It supersedes Version 2.1, published in April 2025.
One of the key changes is a renewed emphasis on achieving correct falls at deck level. According to the LRWA, inadequate falls and poor drainage can lead to standing water, increasing structural loads, accelerating material deterioration and reducing thermal performance.
The Code also includes guidance on terminology, design and installation considerations, health and safety, substrate preparation, structural concrete decks, application methods, quality control, maintenance and training, helping contractors and the wider supply chain deliver high-quality roofing systems in line with recognised industry standards.
Above: Mike Bradbury.
Mike Bradbury, LRWA Technical Guidance Manager, said: “This update ensures the LRWA Hot Melt Code of Practice reflects the requirements of BS 6229:2025 and continues to give the industry a definitive, authoritative reference for Hot Melt waterproofing systems. Falls and drainage remain critical to the long-term performance of a roof, and this edition reinforces that guidance throughout.”
The association says the document is intended to be used throughout a project’s lifecycle, from planning and design through to installation and maintenance, alongside manufacturer guidance, LRWA training and companion technical publications.
The updated LRWA Hot Melt Code of Practice is available to download here.