How to Choose a Spunbond Polyester Mat for Waterproofing Membranes

Selecting the right spunbond polyester mat is essentially a process of matching the mat’s strength, weight, compatibility, and cost to the specific membrane and production conditions. The following guide helps you make an informed choice.

1. Clarify Your Membrane System and Production Process

Identify the membrane type

Determine whether the membrane is:

• SBS/APP bituminous

• Liquid-applied

• Synthetic (TPO/PVC)

Most spunbond polyester mats are engineered specifically for bituminous asphalt membranes, so compatibility is critical.

Understand your manufacturing process

Confirm the key process conditions:

• Continuous line or batch process

• Coating/saturation method

• Maximum line temperature

The mat must tolerate processing temperatures without shrinkage, distortion, or loss of mechanical properties.

2. Select the Right Basis Weight and Thickness

For bituminous membranes, spunbond nonwovens typically range from 140–200 g/m².

• Lower basis weights → suitable for underlayments, lighter membranes, or single-ply capsheets.

• Higher basis weights → provide more tensile strength and dimensional stability for heavy-duty applications (bridges, roofs, foundations) but increase cost and stiffness.

3. Evaluate Mechanical and Dimensional Properties

When comparing candidate mats, check the following:

Tensile strength & elongation

Match both MD (longitudinal) and CD (transverse) values to your product standards or local codes. Adequate strength ensures membrane integrity under:

• Foot traffic

• Wind uplift

• Structural movement

Tear resistance & stability

Look for:

• High tear resistance

• Low heat-shrinkage

• Low dimensional change after heat aging

These are especially important for torch-applied or high-temperature waterproofing systems.

4. Consider Reinforcement Options

• Standard spunbond mats work well for most common membranes.

• Reinforced spunbond (with glass filaments or scrim) greatly enhances:

  • Tensile and tear strength

  • Puncture resistance

  • Long-term creep resistance

These versions are ideal for bridges, tunnels, industrial roofs, and other demanding applications.

5. Assess Surface, Bonding, and Durability Performance

Bonding & absorbency

Ensure the mat has good bitumen or resin absorbency so the membrane forms a strong mechanical and chemical bond without delamination.

Durability checks

Verify:

• Heat resistance

• UV and weathering performance

• Compliance with relevant standards or customer specifications

Long-term membrane durability relies heavily on these properties.