SikaShield® HB79 is a 2-in-1 “hybrid” modified bitumen membrane that combines APAO (a premium type of APP polymer) and SBS asphaltic membrane technologies to produce a more resilient and longer-lasting modified bitumen membrane solution.
APAO polymer is compatible with SBS making the innovative combination possible. The APAO top layer exhibits excellent heat resistance and durability while the SBS bottom layer, exhibits increased elongation, cold weather flexibility, and a secure bond to the substrate.
SikaShield HB79 is reinforced with both polyester and glass fiber mats for increased strength, elongation, shear/tear resistance, and dimensional stability. This makes the membranes perfect for locations with seasonal climate and temperature changes as well as buildings with heavy foot traffic during and after installation.
Exceptional Performance
Because of the premium APAO polymer, SikaShield® HB79 has higher heat stability. When tested against similar APP and SBS membranes, it shows no signs of deterioration from cycles of heat age testing or thermal shock. In addition, no cant strips are required because the membrane can be bent 90 degrees.
Watertight Seams
SikaShield HB79‘s seams exhibit high strength and durability. Both new and aged seams meet the standards of UEAt Directives.
Increased Longevity
Third-Party Certified by the British Board of Agrement (BBA), SikaShield HB79 is noted as being able to have a “service life of at least 35 years.”*
Longer Warranty Options
SikaShield HB79 offers up to a 25-year standard warranty while other competing SBS and APP membranes only offer up to 20 years.
Minimum Granule Loss
ASTM allows a granule loss of up to 2 gr (standard APP and SBS membranes have a loss of around 1.5 gr). SikaShield® HB79’s granule adhesion process is exceptional, resulting in a minimum loss of only 0.1 gr. The result is a more durable and sustainable option by improving membrane longevity, requiring less maintenance, and extending the cool roof rating period.
Thicker Membrane
SikaShield® HB79 has a thickness of 160 mils measured at the overlap edge, while most mod bit sheets measure 160 mils including the granules. That is only 120-130 mils on the overlap meaning SikaShield HB79’s asphalt waterproofing layer is 30-40 mils thicker than others on the market.
Excellent Mechanical and Impact Resistance
SikaShield HB79 Is manufactured with a special composite reinforcement of a fiberglass mat compressed between two layers of non-woven spun bonded polyester. Competitor membranes are reinforced with either one or the other, not both. That along with the premium APAO polymer and a thicker membrane, make the SikaShiled HB79 highly resistant to mechanical damage, punctures, foot traffic, and very severe hail with the addition of a 1/4in gypsum coverboard.
Sustainable
White granules offer high reflectivity, reduce smog, and help to reduce the Urban Heat Island Effect. The membrane also only loses 0.1 gr. improving membrane longevity and reducing early waste in landfills. SikaShield mod. bit. membranes are also made with recycled content.
Versatile
SikaShield HB79 can be installed by torch-down, hot-mop, cold-applied, or mechanically attached. It can also be used with other SikaShield APP or SBS membranes.
* British Board of Agrement, Certificate #19/5716, 2023, Page 11