From waterproofing to insulation value, eaves and curb heights: 'Use functions place new demands on our roofs'

These are just a few of the questions that come in daily to industry association VEBIDAK. What is also topical is the growing demand for utility roofs - and its influence on the entrepreneurship of roofing companies.

"Due to climate change and urbanization, the roof has taken on a different function," knows André van den Engel, deputy director and head of Technical Affairs at VEBIDAK. 

"For example, the roof is increasingly serving as a renewable energy generator. Various forms of biodiversity are also being installed, such as mosses, grasses and/or sedum, with the aim of buffering water during heavy rainfall and relieving the municipal sewer system. To compensate for the lack of outdoor space in urban environments, roofs are also used as terraces or parking facilities, which places new demands on, for example, waterproofing, insulation value, eaves and curb heights."

Trade association

VEBIDAK is the trade association for bituminous and plastic roofing companies. "We represent the interests of over 175 member companies spread throughout the country and we offer advice and support to everyone who has an interest in a good roof. Both in new construction, renovation and repair. Not only member companies, but also construction companies, municipalities, architects, expertise agencies, housing corporations, developers, property managers, owners' associations and private individuals can contact us. For example, for an expert and objective opinion on materials, material applications, constructions and systems," says Van den Engel. "Together with trade unions FNV Bouwen & Wonen and CNV Vakmensen, we make a strong case for a responsible collective agreement and ditto working conditions. We also maintain intensive contacts with the Inspectorate SZW regarding the Health and Safety Catalog for Flat Roofs, through which we actively contribute to clear, safe and healthy working conditions. VEBIDAK also participates in committees and working groups in the field of certification and standardization, such as NEN Bouw, KOMO, Intron Certification and KIWA."

"In addition to industry-specific entrepreneurial training, as a condition of membership, roofers receive practical training. For example, in the area of 'Healthy and safe working on the roof'. Also renowned is our Technical Affairs Department, which advises both member companies and other interested parties, including roof owners, verbally or in writing and, if necessary, carries out inspections and surveys on existing roofs. Finally, we are represented in various meetings and bodies and maintain close contact with all stakeholders in the market. We actively share the knowledge and experience we gain in this process industry-wide."

'Some basic knowledge is required'

"We believe it is important that our members have knowledge of developments in the market and their consequences for roof structures," Van den Engel emphasizes. "Roofing companies are well versed in the installation of roofing and insulation materials. The installation of solar energy systems, vegetated roofs or parking roofs, however, are specialties, requiring cooperation with a specialist such as a solar panel installer or roof landscaper. Still, a good basic construction knowledge of roofing contractors is required. After all: if your eaves and upstands are too low, the landscaper cannot build a garden on them. And if the roofing and underlying insulation are not sufficiently robust, installing solar energy systems is not an option." 

New opportunities

"As a trade association, we are particularly prevention-oriented," he says. "We see it as our task to point out to our members the pitfalls that can arise. For example, in the area of damages and warranties. How can you prevent damage, for example, because roofs are more intensively used? Now that utility roofs are gaining in popularity, we advise companies to discuss not only water tightness and insulation value during the first contact with the client, but also the usage requirements in 1, 2 or 5 years. The advice, quotation and execution can then be geared to this. This leads to new business opportunities, because the roofing companies, in cooperation with their partners, can also install vegetation, solar panels and other products.
be able to sell energy systems and/or parking roofs. It is also important that the roofing and insulation be perfectly matched to the future roof use."

According to Van den Engel, there is also an important task here for architects, structural engineers and contractors. "They too must anticipate the increased roof edge and curb heights, because in addition to the utilization functions, increasing insulation values also cause increased package thicknesses. By jointly managing this, flooding problems can be avoided. Moreover, optimal roofing, longevity and high-quality aesthetics are thus guaranteed."