Background of Standards and Certification

EN 13859-1 is a core technical standard within the European Union for flexible waterproof sheets (soft thin sheets) for discontinuous roofs, falling under the framework of the EU Construction Products Regulation (CPR 305/2011/EU). This standard specifies the material properties, test methods, production control, and CE certification process for soft thin sheets, ensuring that products possess key performance characteristics such as leak resistance, weather resistance, and mechanical stability in roof waterproofing applications. It is a mandatory requirement for products entering the EU market.

Applicable Product Scope

Applicable to the following types of flexible waterproof soft thin sheets:

Materials: Polymer-modified bitumen, rubber, plastic, etc.

Application Scenarios: Discontinuously laid roof underlays (e.g., waterproof underlays beneath metal roofs, isolation layers in composite roof structures).

Functions: Preventing rainwater penetration, resisting external environmental erosion (e.g., UV radiation, temperature changes), providing structural cushioning.

Key Steps Analysis -  Selection of Certification System:

System 1: Suitable for situations requiring extremely high product quality and safety. Requires initial type testing by a EU Notified Body, along with on-site audits, with the certificate ultimately issued by the EU Notified Body. This system comprehensively and thoroughly controls all stages of the product from production to finished goods, ensuring continuous compliance with high standards.

System 3: Initial type testing is conducted by a EU Notified Body, and upon passing the tests, the certificate is issued by the EU Notified Body. This system relatively focuses on type testing of the product, simplifying the certification process to some extent, while still effectively ensuring that the product meets the basic requirements of the EN14509 standard.

System 4: Initial inspection is conducted, followed by the manufacturer's self-declaration. This system grants manufacturers a certain degree of autonomy but also requires them to have strong self-discipline and quality control capabilities to ensure the authenticity and reliability of the self-declaration.

?Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: How can non-EU enterprises apply?

A: Applications must be submitted through an authorized representative within the EU (CASfire Lab), and it must be ensured that the product has an after-sales service point within the EU.

Q: How long is the certification valid?

A: Certificates are typically valid for 5 years, requiring re-audit or updated test reports before expiration.

Q: Is an on-site factory audit required?

A: System 1 requires an on-site audit; System 3 involves only document review (some notified bodies may conduct sample factory inspections).