BFRA gathers momentum
Reinforced bitumen membranes (RBM) remain the dominant waterproofing system in the UK, accounting for more than 50 per cent of the market by installed area. Within a sector valued at approximately £670 million annually, bitumen continues to play a vital role across both new build and refurbishment projects.
However, this position sits against a backdrop of increasing economic and regulatory pressure, including volatile global oil markets, supply chain uncertainty and the evolving requirements of the Building Safety Act (BSA), which places greater emphasis on competency, transparency and long-term performance. Historically, the RBM sector has lacked a dedicated representative body. The BFRA has been established to address this gap and provide technical leadership, consistency and clarity at a time when industry guidance and standards are under increasing scrutiny.
In recent months, the Association has focused on laying strong foundations, including governance, structure and the development of a comprehensive BFRA design guide. This work has been deliberately undertaken behind the scenes to ensure outputs are robust, credible and aligned with the expectations of a modern construction environment.
With this groundwork in place, the BFRA is now opening membership to the wider supply chain. Manufacturer members and founding members form the core voting structure under the Association’s Articles of Association, while a broader range of partner categories is also being introduced. These include merchant partners involved in distribution, contractor partners representing specialist installers, and affiliate partners such as accessory suppliers. While partners will actively contribute to technical work and sector initiatives, governance and voting rights remain with formal members, ensuring clear accountability.
At the heart of the BFRA’s approach is collaboration.
The Association aims to avoid duplication of existing industry work while identifying gaps where RBM-specific guidance is needed. A key priority is improving consistency and reducing fragmentation in standards, particularly as many current references are outdated or not fully aligned to modern system performance requirements.
Transparency and accessibility are central principles. BFRA guidance will be freely available to the industry, ensuring that best practice is not restricted and that technical knowledge is shared widely. The Association also encourages challenge and discussion, recognising that robust standards are strengthened through scrutiny and diverse input.
As the BFRA grows, its structure will evolve to include dedicated leadership in key areas such as sustainability and technical development. This will support its long-term ambition to strengthen standards and raise competency across the sector.
Founding members, including leading manufacturers such as Alumasc, Bauder, BMI Group, IKO, Sika and Soprema, have played a crucial role in establishing the Association and will be permanently recognised for their contribution.
The next phase is about momentum, engagement and collective responsibility – ensuring RBM continues to play a leading role in delivering safe, durable and high-performing flat roofing systems across the built environment.
With membership now open, the BFRA is calling on the industry to take part.
For further information on membership benefits, criteria and fees, contact info@bfra.co.uk and follow updates on LinkedIn.