About Us
The Authority in Waterproofing Maintenance
Vanguard Waterproofing Systems Ltd exists to bridge the gap between building owners who need waterproofing solutions and the specialist knowledge required to specify and deliver them.
Over Two Decades of Flat Roofing Expertise
Founded by Stephen Day and Paull Newsome — two flat roofing specialists with over four decades of combined experience — Vanguard Waterproofing Systems Ltd is the parent company behind both the Vanguard and Proactive Flat Roofing brands.
What began as a hands-on contracting operation has grown into one of the UK’s leading commercial flat roofing specialists, covering London, the South East, and the South West. Our exceptional level of technical knowledge ensures every client receives a gold-standard solution — no matter how complex the project.
Our philosophy is simple: proactive maintenance prevents catastrophic failure. We focus on quality, honesty, and professionalism — communicating clearly and always doing what we say we’ll do.
Two Brands, One Mission
Vanguard and Proactive Flat Roofing work in partnership to deliver the complete waterproofing solution — from expert specification to specialist installation.
The Authority & Specifier
- Condition surveys and assessments
- System specification and recommendation
- Maintenance programme management
- Client advisory and consultation
The Specialist Contractor
- Specialist flat roofing installation
- Expert membrane and coating application
- Hands-on repairs and refurbishment
- On-site quality assurance and delivery
Specification-Led. System-Agnostic.
Unlike most roofing contractors who sell what they know, Vanguard takes a genuinely agnostic approach to system selection. We don’t represent one manufacturer — we specify from across the market, choosing the right system for each building based on rigorous assessment, not commercial bias.
Our structured, process-led methodology starts with a thorough investigation using the latest diagnostic technologies — thermal imaging, electronic leak detection, moisture mapping, and core sampling. Only after we fully understand what’s happening on your roof do we design a solution.
We aspire to follow the Langley model of design-led waterproofing: specification first, installation second, and asset management for the full lifecycle of the building. It’s the way good roof design should work.
PI-Insured Design
Vanguard carries its own Professional Indemnity insurance for design — something very few roofing contractors can say. This means our specifications are independently underwritten, giving you an additional layer of protection and confidence that the design is sound.
Standards & Compliance
Every specification we produce is designed to meet or exceed:
- British Standards (BS 6229, BS 8217, BS 5250)
- Building Regulations (Approved Documents B, L, C)
- The Building Safety Act 2022
- CDM 2015 (Construction Design & Management)
- PAS 2030:2023 (Energy Efficiency Measures)
- NFRC and industry best practice guidance
Our Values
Honesty
We communicate clearly and always do what we say we’ll do. We specify what’s right for the building, not what’s most profitable.
Expertise
Every recommendation is backed by over four decades of combined specialist contracting experience and deep product knowledge.
Quality
We deliver high-quality roofing systems that stand the test of time. Accountability and exceptional workmanship sit at the core of everything we do.
Trusted By Leading Organisations
