Wakaflex FAQs
Where can I buy Wakaflex?
Please head to our Where To Buy section to find a stockist near to you.
Is Wakaflex cheaper than lead flashing?
Wakaflex is usually cheaper than lead flashing by around twenty percent based on a per lineal metre rate. All our flashings come in five metre rolls. Lead usually comes in three metre rolls.
Can you use Wakaflex to fix existing faulty or leaking lead flashing?
Yes. Lift the existing lead and install Wakaflex directly underneath it in full five metre lengths. Then dress down the existing lead over Wakaflex as an over flashing. You can trim the existing lead back if you want a smaller over flashing. If you completely remove the lead you will need to chase Wakaflex back into brickwork or go underneath the fascia.
Where can Wakaflex be installed?
Wakaflex can be installed in any situation where traditional lead flashing is installed. Typical areas include abutments, Dutch gables, step flashings, chimneys and skylights. It suits tile, Colorbond metal, polycarbonate, copper and zinc. Wakaflex cannot be used on a flat roof or in the middle of a roof as a patch. Minimum roof pitch is twelve degrees.
Can Silicone, Sikaflex and glue be used on Wakaflex?
If a sealant is needed we recommend Sikaflex Pro. Roofer’s silicone and general glues are not recommended. Do not place sealant between the roof surface and Wakaflex where it would affect the butyl adhesion.
Can you clean the area with acid and then install Wakaflex?
Acid wash is usually diluted and does not affect Wakaflex. Do the acid wash before installing and hose down with water to ensure no residue remains.
Can Wakaflex be installed on corrugated roof profiles?
Yes. Wakaflex stretches to provide a tight fit on corrugated profiles and is compatible with metal and polycarbonate roofing materials.
Can Wakaflex be installed over asbestos?
Not recommended because asbestos can be powdery and may not provide reliable adhesion. Surfaces must be clean and dry.
Do you need any specialist tools to install Wakaflex?
No special tools are required. Dress by hand and ensure the butyl strips are pressed down for a watertight seal. A roller may be used.
Can Wakaflex be used as dampcourse?
Yes. Wakaflex is tested to AS/NZS 2904:1995 for damp proof course and flashings.
Can Wakaflex be painted?
Yes. Use an outdoor acrylic paint such as Wattyl Solaguard or Dulux Weathershield.
Can Wakaflex be installed if you have a water tank for potable water?
Yes. Wakaflex is non toxic and tested to AS/NZS 4020:2005 for products in contact with drinking water. It will not change the taste or colour of water.
How do I install Wakaflex?
In the same way as you would install lead flashing. Wakaflex is installed horizontally for abutments, gables and pitched roofs where there is a fascia or cladding on the second storey level. If installed on a pitched roof on a brick second storey then it must be step flashed or chased into brickwork, or mechanically over flashed.
Wakaflex Installation Guidelines
How is the installation of Wakaflex different from lead?
Wakaflex can be installed in full five metre lengths and only requires a fifty millimetre overlap that self fuses for a watertight join. Lead sheets must be limited in length and require larger overlaps. Wakaflex is lighter which makes handling easier and quicker.
Available widths are 280 mm, 370 mm and 560 mm. Colours include Grey, Black, Terracotta and Brown.
Can Wakaflex be stuck up against the brickwork, rendered wall or fascia?
No. For warranty compliance the top edge must be built in, chased in or mechanically over flashed according to local codes. Adhering to exposed brickwork or fascia alone is not covered by warranty.
Can Wakaflex be used on metal and polycarbonate roofs?
Yes. Wakaflex does not react with common metals or plastics. It must still be built in, chased in or mechanically over flashed. Do not leave the top edge exposed to running water in the middle of a sheet.
Can Wakaflex be installed on a property prone to bushfire?
Yes. Wakaflex has been tested by CSIRO to AS1530.8.1 and is assessed as suitable for BAL 29 construction when installed totally flush with no cavities. Follow CSIRO recommendations and the installation guide.
Where is Wakaflex made and how long has it been on the market?
Wakaflex is made in Germany. On the global market for over twenty five years and in Australia for over fifteen years.
What is the warranty period for Wakaflex?
Ten year warranty when installed according to instructions. The warranty excludes incorrect installation, accidental damage and uncontrollable natural forces.
What is Wakaflex made of and what are its properties?
Wakaflex uses a polyisobutylene top sheet with an internal aluminium honeycomb mesh and two pure butyl sealing strips along the edges. The formulation is non toxic, UV and ozone resistant and impermeable to water and air. Overlaps self fuse creating a watertight seal.
What is Wakaflex BAL rating?
Wakaflex is assessed as suitable for BAL 29 construction when correctly installed flush to the host roof system with no voids, based on CSIRO testing to AS1530.8.1. BAL requirements are determined by a site assessment under AS3959.