Soprema UK

A private client secured planning permission for a 1.5 storey bungalow on their family’s land, in the village where their ancestors had lived for generations. Mac Eye Projects designed and constructed the two-bedroom, two-bathroom timber-frame property according to ambitious sustainability and energy efficiency goals, using SOPREMA’s ISOLAIR to ensure the necessary thermal and acoustic performance levels. This woodfibre board from the PAVATEX range was delivered in June 2020 and the external rendering of the Paddock’s walls was completed in October 2020.

QUALITY AND AESTHETICS KEY FOR THE ROOF OF NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT IN DORSET

A new build project based alongside phase one; Orchard Apartments. Both new build projects are on the site of a Manor House, originally an RNIB school and home for the blind. All three buildings are now a combination of high specification retirement flats and a care home building for the elderly. The location is also very impressive, based near the edge of the cliffs, with panoramic sea views over Thatcher’s Rock, across Torbay to Paignton and Brixham.Challenges & SustainabilityThis project is a high profile, specified building, based on an original Manor House site. Consideration to the environment was an important requirement for the new building, due to the location being within a coastal conservation area. The green roof will reduce the environmental impact and the effect on biodiversity by replicating the original footprint of the building. The combined synthetic Flag waterproofing and extensive Optigreen Nature Roof System was the perfect solution. Once the Nature System with sedum cuttings has fully established, the building will blend into the surrounding green forest areas and will continue to form an impressive contrast to the blues of the sea and coastal scenery.WorkmanshipThis project was a combined effort and success by Progressive Systems, who were the Main Roofing Contractor, and the installation of the green roof system by Landmark living Roofs, who specialise in Extensive, Intensive and Bio Diverse green roof systems. An excellent combination of skills from specialist roofing contractors, ensured the project was completed to an exceptional standard and all sustainability requirements were met.Scott Rogers from Mike Stacey Construction, the main contractor told Soprema how impressed they were with Landmark living roofs. They recommended that Landmark be involved with more of their projects due to their expertise and dedication to the project. At one point during the installation the weather conditions were extremely challenging, the crane would not reach across the entire roof and so landmark and progressive worked as a team to manually move all of the substrate and distribute it on the roof.

Project:Client: British Film InstituteArchitect: Edward Cullinan ArchitectsProducts Used:Flagon TPO EP/PR 1.5 Sand Grey MembraneExtensive Green Roof SystemSOPREMA EPS insulationProject Description The BFI Master Film Store is considered one of the most important buildings for the preservation of British film. The challenge that Edward Cullinan Architects had was that the material to be stored in the building is the BFI’s National Collection of Film masters. Much of the pre 1950’s film, is a nitrate based material which is highly flammable that could burst into flames, if not stored at the correct and stable temperature. If any of these films become damaged the images are lost forever.A new building was required to store the 450,000 cans of film. A detailed specification was created for the project, that was essentially to be a cold dry fridge which keeps the film at -5 degrees and 35% relative humidity. The building itself is incredibly ecologically sustainable and consists of a series of fire proof cells, many preventatives installed and designed to vent fire and fumes, but also to prevent fire spreading along the series of cells.The roof was an incredibly important factor in the success of this project. The Single Ply Flag Sand Grey TPO EP/PR membrane was a major part of the airtight system that the architects had specified, incorporating an RIW sheet seal membrane into the waterproofing system. The green roof was specified to ensure the environmental impact of the new building was kept to an absolute minimum, and replace the original footprint of the building.SpecificationEach part of the structure has been carefully designed and products selected, adapted and installed using innovative methods and bespoke detailing. The historical value of the films stored in this building is of the upmost importance to the history and culture of this country and others, and so the detail and innovation applied to this project reflects this importance. Flag TPO waterproofing membrane is renowned for its flexibility and resistance to extreme temperature changes, the waterproofing was completed to an extremely high standard meaning that the air tightness and humidity levels of the building will be easily maintained, and the building envelope could withstand structural movement due to temperature changes.SustainabilitySustainability and the environment were major drivers of this project, which has been built on a nuclear bunker site in the countryside. The store is highly insulated (0.1W/m2K) and air tight (0.3m3/hr@50pa) in order to sustain a BREEAM excellent rating, setting a benchmark for the preservation of film world wide. The RIW sheetseal system had to be incorporated into the single ply waterproofing system to encapsulate the building envelope. The system’s light weight and guarantee of performance for 25 years offered clear performance benefits in keeping with the client’s requirements for demonstratable sustainability.

Nestled between parklands, at a mere stone’s throw from Lea Valley and Hackney Marshes, and in the heart of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park with its world-class sporting facilities, an incredible new neighbourhood is arising. Chobham Manor is the first of five new developments to be built in this history-rich area in Stratford, east London. 6,800 new homes will be constructed in total over the next 20 years, along with health centres and multi-purpose community spaces. SOPREMA provided the waterproofing solution and insulation materials for Chobham Manor, as well as collaborating closely from the design stage onwards with Taylor Wimpey, one of the top-five housebuilders in the UK, and SOPREMA-approved contractor Skyler Contracting.

In 2014 a new development consisting of 7 luxury beachfront apartments with uninterrupted sea views was built. The Beach Retreat is positioned on the marina esplanade along the beautiful east Kent coastline. The roof design is of particular interest as Ramsgate seafront and Marina Esplanade is a designated Conservation Area and area of special architectural and historic interest.

Project Description The Dartmouth Indoor Pool project involved refurbishing an existing 25-meter indoor swimming pool to significantly enhance its acoustic environment. The primary goal was to reduce reverberation, creating a more pleasant and tranquil atmosphere for both staff and customers. This was achieved by installing Pure-Kustik D50 White Absorption Panels, advanced sound absorption panels from SOPREMA. Over 126 sqm of Pure Kustik absorption panels were installed to reduce the reverberation time from an estimated 4.5 seconds to 1.8 seconds.Installation ProcessThe installation was designed in line with BB93 guidance for acoustic designs in schools, setting a high standard for noise pollution control. The process involved precisely levelling and evenly spacing 44 Pure-Kustik panels, with some panels custom-cut to fit around existing pipes and HVAC systems. The installation was completed within the set two-day period, allowing the swimming pool to reopen as planned which was vital to the Dartmouth Pool Trust.Project ChallengesThe main challenge was treating only the walls due to access restrictions caused by the Olympic-sized pool in the centre of the hall. The panels were installed at an increased height to prevent future damage, ensuring long-term performance and durability. Ventilation and HVAC systems required the panels to be installed higher than initially planned.Customer SatisfactionThe chosen white Pure-Kustik panels blended in seamlessly with the environment, enhancing the depth and aesthetics of the pool’s white walls without causing any distraction. The Dartmouth Pool Trust was extremely satisfied with the results, noting the reduction in reverberation was noticeable midway through the installation.Contribution to the Built EnvironmentThe retrofitting of Pure-Kustik panels in the Dartmouth Indoor Pool provided a bespoke solution that significantly improved customer satisfaction and health. The panels were chosen for their affordability, moisture resistance and non-support of mould and micro-organism growth. In addition, they are not reactive to chlorine or any other airborne substances under similar conditions, ensuring durability and long-term performance.Sustainability and Environmental QualitiesThe human environment benefits significantly from Pure-Kustik panels due to their lack of water vapour absorption, in contrast to alternatives using melamine foam, which can promote mould growth. Pure-Kustik panels were selected for their sustainability as they are made of PET felt, composed of 60% recycled material from plastic bottles. Using SOPREMA’s online calculation tool minimised material wastage by providing the precise quantities needed, ensuring an efficient and environmentally friendly installation process.

A brand new hospital in Middlesex will deliver efficient and much improved care to it’s patients. The hospital includes new wards, an extension on one of its existing wings as well as the relocation of its existing energy centre. With so much investment in the new hospital including state-of-the-art equipment, the roof design needed to be robust, provide security and require minimal maintenance throughout its lifetime.

Project Description Exactly 55 742 m² of red flag membrane were sent to Abu Dhabi (11 containers) to provide sealing of the enormous roof of the Ferrari World building. This is the most grand indoor amusement park in the world, located on Yas Island.The SOPREMA laboratory designed the membrane to be resistant to heat above 40 ° C, temperature regularly exceeded in the capital of the United Arab Emirates. The installation of the waterproofing membrane took a month. Groups of 30 to 50 workers worked tirelessly and even at night due to the extreme weather conditions.

The Strathmore Centre is an important educational facility in Teddington, West London. Soprema supplied the roofing products for this new building, working closely with single-ply specialist Rock Roofing, main contractor LIFE Build Solutions and green roof partner SkyGarden to achieve a stunning result. Steve Hatcher, Contracts Manager at Rock Roofing, greatly appreciates the reassurance that, “once you’ve installed a Soprema product, you know you have delivered top quality.”SOPREMA FLAGON PVCThe roof build-up for the Strathmore Centre project consisted of a FLAGON PVC single ply membrane with a Wildflower Blanket System from SkyGarden on top. Steve points out that, especially in this kind of scenario, the reliability of the waterproofing is key: “Soprema’s single-ply is not only easy and quick to install, it is also highly reputable. When installing a product beneath a green roof, you need to have the confidence that that product will work. That’s the reason we choose to partner with Soprema.”CLOSE COLLABORATION ON THE DESIGNRock Roofing, LIFE Build, SkyGarden and Soprema collaborated closely on some last minute changes to the specification and the design.INSTALLATION TYPEOriginally, the team at Rock Roofing had proposed a mechanically fixed roof system. Yet on-site checks revealed that a loose-laid system would be a better match for the concrete beam construction of roof. Moreover, the latter installation method would be quicker.Steve and his team checked with Soprema to ensure that the proposed change would be covered by the guarantee, and with SkyGarden to ensure that the green roof met the minimum weight requirements. “Once we got confirmation from all the parties involved, we moved forward with the new installation type”, Steve explains. “We always get good technical back-up from Soprema, making for a very easy process, even when lastminute adaptations are required.”PARAPET CAPPINGMoreover, Rock Roofing came up with a value-engineered alternative for the capping on the parapets that were supposed to be done by a third party. Steve: “We gave the main contractor an alternative parapet detail, which would speed up installation and result in significant cost savings. We proposed a smaller capping and consulted with the team at Soprema to make sure the new perimeter detail was in agreement with them, which it was.” Thus, Rock Roofing saved LIFE Build considerable time and money.A BEAUTIFUL GREEN ROOFSteve looks back with satisfaction. “We had no complications or issues and even won back some of the lost time”, he recaps. LIFE Build is very pleased with the result as well. Steve: “We got some great feedback from them. Even though they think the green roof looks amazing, they pointed out that, in a way it’s a shame it covers such a nice roof. That’s a beautiful compliment.”QUESTIONS? GET IN TOUCH.Would you like to work with Soprema for your next project? Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our experts.

Project DescriptionThe NHS Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital in North-West London received funding in 2016 to redevelop and improve it’s buildings and facilities following a long funding campaign. The hospital is located on a 100 acre site and provides complex surgery and rehabilitation, cutting-edge research and clinical training.Part of the approved funding budget included a complete refurbishment on the flat roof of the Outpatients’ Centre, which meant upgrading the waterproofing and insulation to meet current building regulations.Sunrise Roofing was the approved contractor for this project. Altogether they have refurbished over 35 roofs of different sizes for the NHS Trust and so were familiar with the challenges which they would be faced with on site including site deliveries, minimal disruption to the building occupants especially as surgery was still being carried out and speed of work to ensure valuable equipment was not damaged.The original specification for this project was a torch on vapour barrier to the metal deck. However, despite core samples being taken, as the work began, Sunrise soon realised that the recovery board was stuck solid with polymer bitumen and that they therefore needed a plan B.A new specification was needed to overcome this problem which had already cost them a lot of time, trying to remove the bitumen. SOPREMA provide a new specification which included sealing the laps of the vapour barrier, while mechanically fixing the insulation boards with the recommended fixings.SolutionSunrise Roofing worked with SOPREMA to ensure deliveries to site were before 7.30am before it got too heavily congested. Sunrise Roofing also started early in the morning before surgery started at 8:30am to ensure as little disruption as possible. The Sopralene system provides a high performance waterproofing solution for the hospital that guarantees longevity.Customer SatisfactionSunrise Roofing installed the waterproofing systems to a very high standard. Steve O’Mahoney, Director of Sunrise Roofing commented: “SOPREMA’s Sopralene system is a superb system to work with. As it is, the roof looks like it was installed using Photoshop.”

Project:Client: Taylor WimpeyScope of Project: Roof area of 2,000m2 with green roof elementArchitect: JM Architects - London W1Roofing Contractor: M.A.R.S. Construction Ltd, with BBS Roofing green roof installation engineersYear completed: 2007Products Used:OPTIGREEN Economy RoofRMS 300 Protection LayerFKD25 Drainage LayerTYPE M Extensive Growing MediumVegetation Mat on degradable carrierFLAGON SA/VB Vapour barrierFlagtherm InsulationFlagon EP/PRF Waterproofing & Root Barrier.Project DescriptionIn keeping with Taylor Wimpey being the first publicly listed housebuilder to achieve ISO14001:2004 certification, sustainability and biodiversity were key to the design for this development of apartments, penthouses and duplexes at Benedict’s Wharf on the River Roding at Barking.ChallengesRecognising the impact that housebuilders can have on biodiversity and the protection of species and wildlife habitats in urban areas, Taylor Wimpey required a low maintenance, lightweight green roof for this eco home development.SolutionRoofing contractor, M.A.R.S, Construction Ltd worked closely with JM Architects and leading independent green roof system installation engineers BBS Green Roofing Ltd to provide a lightweight green roof solution requiring minimal maintenance. The OPTIGREEN Economy Roof system consisted of sedum mats with a shallow layer construction, and planting of 60-80mm maximum height. Weighing as little as a ballasted roof the imposed roof load for the vegetation was just 0.2kN/m2.Advantages at a GlanceThe green roof has an immediate visual impact with dense planting of sedum varieties adding to the environmental value of the riverside setting.Customer SatisfactionRecognition of environmental responsibilities was a key factor for Taylor Wimpey at Benedict’s Wharf. Ashley Pavitt of M.A.R.S. commented “The OPTIGREEN roof system met the requirements for Taylor Wimpey who laid a heavy emphasis on energy efficiency and sustainability principles”.

LONDON HOSPITAL ROOF REFURBISHMENT USE SOPRALENE WATERPROOFING SYSTEM

Approved contractors turned to Soprema for their single ply product, technical knowledge and customer service, to deliver a multi-disciplinary solution for a residential refurbishment in Hampshire.THE PROJECTThe North Street Arcade refurbishment in Havant, Hampshire, presented a complex roofing challenge. The building, which had been derelict for years, was redeveloped by south coast property consultants, Holloway Iliffe & Mitchell.Havant is a historic market town with excellent transport links to London and the M27. The town centre has experienced significant regeneration in recent years, including the refurbishment of the old Market Parade to provide residential apartments, shops and restaurants. This new development has been very much welcomed by local residents and businesses alike.Soprema and specialist contractors, Mariner Projects, successfully completed 650 sq. m. of new build and roof refurbishment areas. The diversity of the project included pitched and curved slate roofs, dormers, parapets and various detail work.A MULTI-DISCIPLINARY APPROACHWorking closely with Tom Mariner, Company Director at Mariner Projects, Soprema developed a specification of high-quality products to meet the criteria of the build; which saw mechanically fixed single-ply membrane, insulation, and various detailing materials installed.Soprema’s in-house technical skills were invaluable to the project during the design and specification stages, as well as post-installation inspections. The knowledgeable team was able to offer guidance from initial design stages, through to sign-off.Speaking of the success of the project, Tom Mariner, said: “I have worked with Soprema for many years and their dedication, technical knowledge and customer service is excellent. Our point of contact at Soprema played a crucial role in helping us with the commercial development and pricing, as well as product selection. This really helped us to develop a strong pitch, win the work and execute an innovative solution for the client.“The refurbishment was a phased project involving multiple roof areas being constructed at different times. Soprema’s customer services and delivery process helped the project to be delivered seamlessly.”PROJECT CHALLENGESThis project presented complex roofing details, such as PVC parapet upstands and outlets, brickwork abutments and dormers. Soprema’s product range, including Flag PVC single ply membrane, along with their technical expertise, addressed these complexities. Soprema’s multidiscipline approach meant a comprehensive solution of various products and systems could be offered from a single source. This ensured minimum downtime as the project did not have to wait for multiple suppliers, which also kept costs to a minimum.A TRUSTWORTHY SUPPLIERThanks to Soprema’s technical expertise, and close collaboration with Mariner Projects, the unique challenges of this project were easily addressed. Characterised by its complexity and phased approach, the North Street Arcade has benefited from Soprema’s considerable experience in the residential sector, resulting in a successful roofing solution and regeneration for the local community.Soprema offers a single-point Sopracover warranty, ensuring peace of mind for both the specialist contractor and the end client. Soprema’s warranties cover synthetic waterproofing and insulation systems, and can extend up to 25 years, subject to build-up; making it a competitive and reliable choice.Continued Tom: “Soprema’s materials guarantee provide peace of mind for us as a specialist contractor. We are fully trained in their systems and we excel in our craft. Working closely with a trusted manufacturer that has quality products, backed by a sound warranty, makes all the difference.”G and E Projects, who successfully led the regeneration of this previously neglected site into 29 modern apartments, said “After an extensive tender period, we began on site in November 2022 and over the last year we have risen to a number of unique challenges, from the installation of a 26m tower crane to the fixing of new fitted kitchens in each flat, in line with the inimitable curvature of the building. All partners in the team have done a fantastic job in keeping us on track with the programme throughout each phase of its development and we are excited to be handing over these quality new living spaces to our client in the New Year.”

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of All Hallows in Leeds sought the assistance of York-based Native Architects to address their leaking roof. Native Architects recognised the significance of the building to the community and the need for a sustainable insulation solution that would stand the test of time while providing superior thermal and acoustic properties. Soprema’s PAVATEXTIL P met all these requirements.MUCH-NEEDED ROOF REFURBISHMENTAll Hallows Church, which was built in the 1970s, serves not only as a religious centre but also as a vital community hub. Together with over a hundred volunteers, the church takes important initiatives like repurposing food that would otherwise be discarded from supermarkets and restaurants into wholesome meals for up to a hundred people in need per day.The church’s low-pitched roof had suffered from weather damage and vandalism, resulting in slipped and broken tiles. Despite being heavily frequented, the church experienced significant water ingress due to the poor condition of the tiled roof. Chris Walker, Director at Native Architects, noted that the roof also had low thermal performance.All Hallows Church required a new roof system that would not only be sturdy but also sustainable to minimise operating costs, particularly in the current economic environment. The team at Native Architects created a design to remove the existing tiles and replace them with a durable zinc roof that would offer superior longevity and performance.FROM MINERAL WOOL TO PAVATEXTIL PRecognising the building’s significance to the local community, Native Architects understood that the church needed a sustainable insulation solution that would last, as well as offering excellent thermal and acoustic properties.Initially, the team considered mineral wool insulation. Yet the high cost and the risk of glass fibre or mineral wool dropping onto the congregation through the acoustic ceiling with perforated boarding led them to explore other options. Chris Walker: “following consultation with approved distributor Unity Lime Products Ltd, we changed the specification to Soprema’s PAVATEXTIL P cotton fibre-based thermo-acoustic insulation.”THE ADVANTAGES OF PAVATEXTIL PThe team at Native Architects recognised that PAVATEXIL P offers several important advantages. The product provides the necessary thermal and acoustic performance at a more affordable price than wood-fibre alternatives. Walker: “We also really liked the idea of the product being recycled from cotton and polyester fibres, originating from recycled textile.”Being soft and flexible, PAVATEXTIL P can easily be fitted into even the most difficult-to-reach areas. This feature simplified the installation process for the roofing contractors, Geoff Neal Roofing of York. Walker: “The team at GNR really enthused about using it.”Moreover, PAVATEXTIL is extremely versatile. It can be applied between metal or timber frameworks, on sloped roofs, inside walls and for attic floors. It provides exceptional sound insulation and effectively prevents thermal losses in winter and overheating in summer.The hydrophilic and hygroscopic properties of the cotton fibres in PAVATEXTIL P, which undergo anti-bacterial, fungal and flame-retardant treatments, make them resistant to dust mites and mould. Finally, with an A+ classification for Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) emissions, the insulation material guarantees high-quality air inside All Hallows.PROVIDING COMFORT FOR LIFEThanks to our premium insulation solution and its successful installation, a cherished community centre and place of worship underwent a complete transformation. The Parochial Church Council can rest assured that PAVATEXIL P will continue to provide thermal comfort for years to come, keeping visitors warm in winter and cool in summer.HOW CAN WE HELP?Would you like our technical support for your project? Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our experts.

Project:Approved Contractor: Eclipse Roofing and WaterproofingClient: Seren ProjectsProducts Used:Sopradere QuickSopravap Alu Activa 2120mm Sopratherm T InsulationVentirock SB 3 TFSopralene Optima C3 GMFProject Description 10 Nairn Road is a new development of two contemporary homes in Canford Cliffs, Poole in Dorset. The client, Serene Projects and the Architect wanted a waterproofing system for the roofs which was robust and also aesthetically pleasing as the lower flat roofs would be overlooked from the terraces.Installation ProcessEclipse Roofing and Waterproofing, one of SOPREMA’s Approved Contractors, put forward a bituminous specification to meet these key requirements which included a SOPREMA warm and cold roof system, both of which included SOPREMA Sopralene Optima C3 GMF and offered a 30 year single point warranty. Serene Projects awarded the job to Eclipse Roofing and Waterproofing who took great pride in ensuring that SOPREMA warm roof waterproofing system on the 650m² roof was installed to a high standard and that every bituminous bead was neat and continuous.Shane Young, owner of Eclipse Roofing and Waterproofing commented “We also worked closely with a fabrication company ensuring the new balustrades for the terraces were totally waterproofed once installed. Part of this was achieved by installing SOPREMA’s ALSAN PMMA liquid waterproofing around the fixings points and intricate details”.The main challenge was treating only the walls due to access restrictions caused by the Olympic-sized pool in the centre of the hall. The panels were installed at an increased height to prevent future damage, ensuring long-term performance and durability. Ventilation and HVAC systems required the panels to be installed higher than initially planned.How Can We Help?For more information on our bituminous systems and how we can help with your project, email info@soprema.co.uk

SAFE TO TORCH FLAT ROOF REFURBISHMENT PROJECT

Project:Project Type: CommunityApproved Contractor: Duffell RoofingClient: Hartlepool Borough CouncilProducts Used:Elastocol 600 Self Adhesive PrimerSopravap Stick ALU S16Sopratherm GSopralene Optima C3 GmFProject DescriptionRossmere Youth Centre in Hartlepool is a popular place for young people to learn through a range of informal education activities such as residential work, arts and crafts and sports. The project involved the renovation of two existing roofs where the existing waterproofing had exceeded their life expectancy and were beyond repair.ChallengesKey considerations with this project were the 23 existing rooflights on one of the roofs, the need for a flame-free waterproofing system and to ensure there was minimal disruption to the day to day running of the youth centre. For the first roof, SOPREMA recommended their BITUMINOUS SINGLE LAYER WARM ROOF WATERPROOFING SYSTEM. This bituminous waterproofing system incorporated tapered insulation to meet current building regulations by increasing the roof’s thermal performance and the fall of the roof, preventing water ponding.SolutionSOPREMA approved contractor Dufell Roofing, removed the existing waterproofing, exposing the timber substrate and replaced it with the new SOPREMA waterproofing system.The client, Hartlepool Borough Council, were concerned about the use of flames on the roof which is why Sopralene Optima C3 capsheet was specified. Sopralene Optima was adhered using Sopracol Liquid and the laps were hot air welded, bonding it to the tapered insulation with a consistent bituminous bead.The second area needed a completely new roof including the timber substrate due to moisture penetration of the existing waterproofing. The existing rooflights also needed to be updated to bring them in line with current building regulations.SOPREMA again recommended their BITUMINOUS SINGLE LAYER WARM ROOF WATERPROOFING SYSTEM for this roof along with Alsan Flashing Quadro liquid waterproofing system used for flashing and detail work on the new rooflights and upstands.Customer SatisfactionDufell Roofing installed the waterproofing systems on both roofs to a very high standard and met the installation deadlines to allow the youth centre to continue as normal, with minimal disruption. The two waterproofing systems offer exceptional performance in terms of strength, reliability and service life and come with a 20 year single point warranty to give complete peace of mind. The Council were very pleased with the overall aesthetic finish on the roof and the high level of workmanship.

Harris Academy Secondary School is a 6 form-entry secondary school in London. The project brief was developed with London Borough of Sutton and Harris Federation, together with multiple stakeholders and the surrounding community. Architype, a top London based architect, were asked to design a new school which could meet Passivhaus standard and also go on to meet BREEAM requirements. The requirement of this high quality development was the integration of environmental sustainability, user comfort and well-being. To meet these requirements they needed a high quality roof specification which could offer thermal insulation and a high performance waterproofing solution.

Project Description SOPREMA products achieve watertight thermally efficient roofing for sustainable affordable Hounslow homes.Advancing sustainable affordable housing, the thermally-efficient roofing build-up at The Everglades development in Hounslow has been designed with a range of waterproofing and insulation products from SOPREMA, also allowing for the introduction of zero carbon technology and biodiversity onto the roof space.Project OverviewContributing to the delivery of much-needed housing, The London Borough of Hounslow commissioned architectural practice BPTW to design the new residential scheme on the existing Everglades site as part of a small sites programme in the area.Originally, it housed a 1960s four-storey sheltered accommodation block and three, three-storey blocks of flats. The four-storey building was demolished and impressively redeveloped to anchor the site. Two reinforced concrete frame infill buildings have also been constructed between the existing housing. The updated development has created a cohesive and vibrant community space that provides 33 homes across the three new residential buildings.A regular Approved Installer of SOPREMA products, Essex-based DF Roofing successfully delivered the specification with SOPREMA collaborating with the main contractor, Wates Construction, on all design aspects of the flat roof. Together, the team delivered a watertight solution that met the architect’s specified U-value requirements, all with a 40-year warranty. DF Roofing Operations Director, Jay Curran, said: “Right from the minute we bought SOPREMA on to the job with us, they supported at every step. From workshops with the Wates Construction team to site visits and inspecting the work throughout the process, we couldn’t have asked for more.”The project features a warm, inverted roof, incorporating green roofing areas specified at the planning stage to encourage biodiversity. For the main roof and larger terrace areas, SOPREMA Duoflex and XPS insulation were used. The high-quality elastomeric bitumen is hot bonded to the concrete substrate as part of the Duoflex Hot Melt waterproofing system, which includes a fleece layer. Modified with root-repellent additives and reinforced with non-woven polyester, the elastomeric bitumen membrane serves as the upper layer waterproofing system specifically designed for green roofs, ensuring long-term durability and protection. Customer SatisfactionCommenting on the SOPREMA solution, Jay Curran from DF Roofing said: “This system was chosen to meet the council’s request for a 40-year warranty. The use of hot melt technology allowed SOPREMA to offer this extended warranty, surpassing other roofing alternatives.”Roofing Solutions for Efficiency, Durability, and SustainabilityAchieving the required 0.10W/m2K, Sopra XPS insulation was a priority to support the overall thermal efficiency of the roofing system. The complex roof design and varying slopes meant the insulation had to be installed in small sections, carefully following the curve of the substrate to maintain continuous insulation and prevent thermal bridging.To withstand varying weather conditions and provide a reliable waterproof layer, the uninsulated balconies were protected using the Sopralene 2-layer felt system.For the terraces, a more intricate insulation solution was needed due to the low door threshold and specific internal floor finishes. Here, a 60mm VIP (Vacuum Insulation Panel) board was sandwiched between 40mm EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) overlay and underlay. This advanced insulation method, supplied by CTF Insulation, allowed the construction team to accommodate the low threshold while still achieving excellent thermal performance.All the roof areas on the new buildings have been finished in parts with a sedum roof and the terraces and balconies are paved, which is installed on paving supports.In addition, the roof areas feature solar PV panels to generate electricity, which are installed on pedestals, meaning they don’t penetrate the waterproofing system at all.Through careful specification of SOPREMA’s products, detailed planning and a professionally executed installation, The Everglades project successfully delivered a watertight, energy-efficient roofing system and has set a new standard for sustainable residential development in Hounslow.Get in TouchWould you like to work with SOPREMA on your next project? Contact our experts today.

Project:Client: Transport for LondonMain Contractor: MACE ConstructionArchitect: Wilkinson EyreYear completed: 2012Product Used:Flag TPO Lead GreyProject DescriptionThe Thames Cable Car is an exciting new addition to London’s infrastructure. The cable car system links two Olympic venues; The O2 arena and Excel. Providing up to 2500 commuters and tourists per hour, an alternative route to cross the Thames.Wilkinson Eyre Architects who designed the Thames Cable Car system stated “While the sculpted forms of the towers have the potential to become the iconic feature of the scheme, the stations at either end perform an important function as the gateways denoting the beginning and end of what will be a memorable journey”.Mace Construction were appointed Main Contractor, awarding Rock Roofing Contractors the roofing construction contract. Soprema Approved contractor, Rock installed Lead Grey Flag TPO Waterproofing to both the North and South stations, to the highest standard and within the restriced completion schedule, meeting all deadlines set by both the client and the main contractor.ChallengesCompletion of the Thames Cable Car prior to the Opening of the Olympics 2012, challenged all project stakeholders, the project was fast tracked in order for visitors to london and commuters to benefit from the new infrastructure link throughout the Olympics and there after.

Impact and Airborne Noise Pollution ExplainedNoise pollution in residential dwellings is a common problem that many residents face, regardless of whether they live in an apartment, 2-storey house or a bungalow. Whether the property is fully detached, semi-detached or terraced, some noise pollution is always present in a form of annoying and unpleasant sounds coming from adjacent rooms or upstairs (if present), which can have a long-term negative impact on residents’ health, leading to stress, insomnia, cardiovascular and metabolic problems and having a detrimental effect on productivity because of the distraction, fatigue and interruptions in communication it causes.The unwanted sounds can be divided into two categories, impact and airborne noise. Airborne noise is generated by vibrations that are transmitted to other spaces through the air. It originates from within a room or area – for example, voices, music or television sounds coming from an adjoining rooms or upstairs. Impact noise is generated when one object hits another. The impact produces a vibration that is transmitted to the building structure, traveling through the structure to a state of airborne transmission. It usually can be heard inside a room as footsteps, objects falling and chairs or furniture being dragged around in the other room.The Problem Experienced By the ClientThis was the exact problem that the residents of a terraced house with a double brick partition and a ‘Dot & Dab’ plaster finish in Hall Avenue, Widnes were struggling with when they called Floorscan Acoustics, who sell various soundproofing and acoustic solutions to homeowners across the UK. The residents complained about a noisy neighbour and after conducting a site visit, the technical experts from Floorscan Acoustics detected high levels of impact (footfall) and airborne (conversational) noise coming from the neighbour’s house. The source of the underlying issue was a lack of mass between the dividing walls of the terraced houses.The Solution OfferedTo combat the impact and airborne noise pollution experienced by the client, Floorscan Acoustics recommended TECSOUND SY from Soprema as the best solution. It is part of our TECSOUND range, an acoustic insulation range developed to offer soundproofing and sound absorption solutions for the complete building envelope.TECSOUND SY is self-adhesive polymer based, bitumen-free, high-density synthetic soundproofing membrane that is flexible and adaptable to uneven surfaces and is easy to handle and cut. The combination of its viscoelasticity and its high-density offers good sound-insulation in different construction elements without increasing thickness. TECSOUND SY membranes can be used on vertical partition walls with low surface mass (plasterboard partitions, timber partitions etc.), floating floors, ceilings and lightweight roofs to soundproof against airborne and impact noise pollution.For this project, TECSOUND SY 100 was chosen to deaden the wall. At just 5mm thick, it added 10kg per sqm, creating a minimum build up and taking up less depth from the existing wall compared to traditional acoustic boards. The self-adhesive backing of the membrane allowed for a quick and easy installation, saving both time and labour without the need of direct fixings. The acoustic membrane was easily cut with a Stanley blade into metre long strips for ease of installation. The results were immediate – a dramatic reduction in airborne and impact noise pollution was recorded upon completion, with conversations made completely inaudible, allowing the residents of the house to finally enjoy their lives in peace, without unnecessary noise interruptions from the neighbours.Learn More and Get in TouchTo learn more about the impact and airborne noise pollution, please visit our dedicated Acoustic Insulation Solutions for Airborne and Impact Noise page. If you are a homeowner looking to find our more about Soprema’s TECSOUND range, please contact Floorscan Acoustics. If you are an architect or a contractor, looking for more information about the soundproofing solutions offered by Soprema, please contact our dedicated technical experts.

Project Description Residents of Kemp House campaigned to their Landlord for two green roofs to be installed on the two multi-storey buildings that are divided by the residential tower block. Kemp House, a 1960’s building, is owned and managed by CityWest Homes and sits beside the hustle and bustle of Berwick Street Market. It consists of two multi storey buildings with a large tower block perched in the middle, now dividing two biodiverse nature roofs. Residents living in the social housing block in the heart of London’s Soho District can now look down on two living green roofs.Installation ProcessThe installation was designed in line with BB93 guidance for acoustic designs in schools, setting a high standard for noise pollution control. The process involved precisely levelling and evenly spacing 44 Pure-Kustik panels, with some panels custom-cut to fit around existing pipes and HVAC systems. The installation was completed within the set two-day period, allowing the swimming pool to reopen as planned which was vital to theDartmouth Pool Trust.Project ChallengesWhen planning green roofs for refurbished buildings such as Kemp House, unique design approaches have to be taken to follow weight constrictions. ‘It took a lot of work to reach the implementation of the project – checking with the planning department; raising funds; agreeing the specification and checking the load bearing capability of the roof,’ explained Liz Waine of CityWestHomes.SustainabilityDesigned for biodiversity, these green roofs serve purposes such as cooling the office & residential space below and storing rain water. However, the main reason for the green roof and how it has been designed, is to meet the City of Westminster and London’s Biodiversity Action Plan targets, creating habitat for the rare Black Redstart and invertebrate species – Three Redstarts were spotted the day after installation!The green roof consists of a sedum blanket on top of a substrate layer in line with the recently developed Green Roof Code (GRO). The green roof designer Dusty Gedge, part of the Green Roof Consultancy (GRC), chose a number of native wildflower plugs, spring bulbs and other features such as logs to ensure that the roof was a diverse environment for both rare invertebrates and birds.Resident David Barrett and his neighbours where delighted when funding was granted by the Greater London Authority. Matthew Thomas part of the urban greening sector within the Greater London Authority (GLA) explained: ‘There are several reasons why the GLA are fully supportive of the Kemp House green roof project. Firstly, the GLA wants to reduce surface water flooding in London. The Drain London project, of which the GLA is a key partner, aims to better understand and then reduce the likelihood and severity of such flooding in London now and in the future. Green roofs will help to achieve this.Kemp House is just one example of how green roofs will improve urban environment not only with addressing storm water, the urban heat island effect and air pollution, but also making a very significant contribution to wildlife in the capital as well as serving as an aesthetic component of sustainable building. Furthermore, how a fantastic community project benefits the client, residents and local community and wildlife.

Project Description SOPREMA Group have always been at the forefront of innovation. Since 1908, SOPREMA have manufactured waterproofing membranes for a vast range of applications; from flat roofing to underground construction projects and basements; surfacing to drinking water reservoirs, canals and dams.Over the past 50 years, Flagon membranes have been used to waterproof some of the World’s most celebrated structures, including many prestigious underground railway tunnels. Today, Soprema are one of the World’s leading manufacturers of synthetic membranes for waterproofing major civil engineering works.London Tunnelling MarathonThe SOPREMA Flagon Tunnel Waterproofing System has been specified and installed on numerous underground projects across London. With key clients including Crossrail, TFL and London underground, SOPREMA have gained invaluable experience in delivering tunnel waterproofing systems.Designed on a project by project basis with a 120 year design life, the supply chain and designers have faced many challenges throughout many of the tunnelling projects, resulting in the development of new details and bespoke designs. Ultimately, these innovations have increased efficiency on subsequent projects. Every underground project has continued to develop further knowledge and confidence in the Soprema tunnel waterproofing system amongst project designers and project stakeholders.Guaranteeing SuccessSOPREMA guarantees faultless waterproofing by working closely with the project designers and managers from the early stages of the project right through to completion. The waterproofing system consists of various materials for sealing, draining and protecting, whilst also facilitating inspection and repair possibilities both during and after construction. The correct installation of the products by qualified applicators is essential and regular inspection and quality assurance are vital to ensure a fully functional system.ProjectsCrossrailC305 Stepney Green Caverns, 5000m2C300/410 Fisher Street Shaft, 2000m2C305 Running Tunnels, 2000m2C310 Thames Tunnel, 2000m2C360 Mile End Shaft, 2500m2C360 Eleanor Street Shaft, 7000m2C510 Whitechapel Station, 36000m2C510 Liverpool Street Station, 38000m2 TFLVauxhall Station Passenger Tunnels, 3000m2 London UndergroundVictoria Station Passenger Tunnels, 10000m2Victoria Station Shaft PAL 2, 2000m2

At Soprema, we like to think big. We continually invest in innovative, future-proof products and solutions and we frequently contribute to projects that form entire communities and offer residents everything they need. Think of London City Island , which includes residential properties as well as cafes, shops, restaurants and cultural facilities, or Chobham Manor , which was waterproofed with 14,000 m2 of ALSAN PMMA. The Ropetackle Development in Shoreham-by-the-Sea, which was shortlisted for an Inside Housing Development Award, deserves special mention, too. The new development on a former industrial site bordered by the River Adur, the South Coast Main Railway Line and the A283 Old Shoreham Road was completed in March 2021, providing much-needed new housing in the area.

Project:Projects: Wembley Stadium, Shalke Arena, and Olympic SitesProducts Used:TPO MembranesProject DescriptionMore than 160,000 m2 of Flag single ply membranes have been installed in sports arenas and stadiums on a global basis, providing flexible waterproofing solutions to some of the most prestigious projects, designed by world renowned architects.Schalke ArenaIn the area of football, 40,000 m 2 of FLAGON TPO membranes were installed on the roof of the Schalke Arena in Gelsenkirchen, which was constructed for the 2006 World Cup.Wembley StadiumFlag UK manufactured and installed widths ranging from 8 to 20 metres for this elliptical roof, which incorporated 20,000m2 of FLAGON membrane as its waterproofing layer. 8,500m2 of membrane in lead grey was fully adhered to a metal deck and Pyroc boards mechanically fixed with peel rivets, and a standing seam profile was added. The remaining membrane was mechanically fixed to the roof.Olympic WorkFlag is no stranger to Olympic projects and has carried out work in both Athens and Torino. Helliniko Olympic Indoor Arena, which played host to basketball, handball and fencing at the 2004 games, was constructed of a lightweight steel frame, overlaid with a metal deck and insulation boards. 21,000m 2 of Flagon TPO membrane was mechanically fixed to the roof to accommodate movement in the structure and reduce any stress that may occur on the waterproofing layer.The eight swimming pools in the Athens Olympic Village swimming pool were lined with FLAGPOOL PVC-P liner in light sky blue and 35,000m2 of FLAGON TPO membrane was used to protect the artificial snow generating area at the Torino Winter Olympics.Other prestigious roofing projects include the Tallin Gymnastic Palace, Estonia and the Sports Palaces of Catina and Palermo.Advantages at a GlanceFLAGON EP/PR TPO membranes have a positive environmental impact, which starts during production and ends with a recyclable product with a 25 year life expectancy. FLAGON TPO membranes provide the ideal solution as they are inherently flexible remaining heat weldable throughout their serviceable life. TPO is resistant to weathering and ultra violet rays and does not contain harmful chlorines or halogens.Customer SatisfactionWorking on large, prestigious projects makes Flag UK the ideal partner for fast track construction projects. Comprehensive training of all parties involved in the design and installation process has ensured that work is completed on time and that all quality procedures are met.

Counting about 3,000 residential properties, Glenvale Park is a brand-new neighbourhood in the north of Wellingborough. To cater to the local community’s educational needs, the project also includes a new nursery school and primary school. Together with single-ply specialist Rock Roofing and main contractor Lindum Group, Soprema took care of the pitched and flat roofs of the educational facilities, waterproofing 3,000 square metres with the aesthetically stunning FLAGON membranes.ONE SITE, TWO PROJECTSSoprema secured the Glenvale Park project in October 2022, providing its developers with a significant commercial advantage over competitor solutions. The actual construction of the Glenvale Park nursery school started in January 2023 and was soon followed by works on the primary school. So, the project consisted of two separate buildings located on the same site, with the same client and main contractor overseeing both endeavours simultaneously.Soprema not only supplied the necessary waterproofing and insulation solutions: our team of experts was also responsible for interim site inspections, thermal calculations, and other services – always in close collaboration with Rock Roofing.Leon Horobin, Technical Sales Manager at Soprema, greatly values the longstanding relationship with Rock Roofing: “We have worked with the company founders, with Contracts Manager Steve Hatcher and with other members of the team for almost a decade. The level of collaboration has always been outstanding.”OVERCOMING NUMEROUS CHALLENGESSteve Hatcher stresses that the quality of roofing works for Glenvale Park nursery and primary schools benefited massively from the strong partnership between Rock Roofing and Soprema. Steve: “We relied on Soprema’s valuable on-site assistance and leveraged the expertise of their technical professionals to resolve the issues we encountered – and there were quite a lot of them, making the project all the more engaging and interesting for the team.”1.   DESIGN CHALLENGESThe first challenges arose from the fact that we were not working on a flat but on a pitched roof, requiring careful thought and planning. The detailing becomes more complex as the angles of the profiles change, and working on a slope is also challenging in general as it makes installing the sheets and products trickier.2.   CHALLENGING WEATHER CONDITIONSThe winter season, too, posed a challenge at the start of the project. The light snowfall and rain made the roof wet and slippery. Moreover, the low temperatures prevented the use of adhesives and a lot of the work had to be put on hold. This initially resulted in delays and increased deadline pressure. However, we were able to overcome these setbacks and make up for lost time when it became warmer.BENEFITS OF WORKING WITH SOPREMA1.   INCREDIBLY WIDE RANGEBoth fully adhered and mechanically fixed systems were used for the Glenvale Park schools, testifying to Soprema’s extensive product range and showcasing our ability to tailor solutions to the most diverse roof situations. We can select multiple products from our range to meet client needs and cover cost considerations. Moreover, the roofs being highly visible and their aesthetics a major selling point, we ensured that our solution added to their visual appeal.1.1 Cost-effective alternative to metal roofingFor the visible roofing areas, we used single-ply membranes while adding profiles to make them look like standing seam roofs. The result looks as stunning as a metal roof yet is much more durable with a product life of more than 35 years. In addition, our synthetic roofing membranes are recyclable, easier to install, more cost-effective and much lighter than aluminium, lead or copper roofing. The lower permanent load results in additional cost savings because the roof structure can be lighter as well.1.2 Fully adhered systemOn the pitched areas, which are very visible, we used fully adhered membranes to obtain a beautiful flat appearance. More specifically, the build-up is FLAGON SB, our fleece-backed membrane composed of flexible PVC, on top of SOPRATHERM G, a glass tissue-faced PIR insulation. The self-adhesive SOPRAVAP STICK ALU 16 membrane served as a vapour control layer, and the metal deck was primed with ELASTACOL 600 primer.1.3 Mechanically fixed systemsFor areas that were not visible, we opted for two mechanically fixed systems. As achieving the same flawless surface as the fully adhered system was not necessary, quick installation and cost-effectiveness (especially since no adhesives are required) were the deciding factors.The first mechanically fixed area consists of FLAGON SR DE, SOPRATHERM F insulation and a VAPOR FLAG vapour control layer. The second area has the same build-up, but with tapered insulation to create falls in the roof to the outlets.1.4 Solar PV and roof lightsThe roofs of Glenvale Park nursery school and primary school have been fitted with solar PV panels. Rock Roofing took care of their integration into the roofing system and installed remote and temperature controlled roof lights on the nursery school. Steve Hatcher: “It really is an all-encompassing package you get. Only a big supplier like Soprema has the different products you need for optimally waterproofing and insulating multiple roof areas.”2.   ONE-STOP SHOP AND WARRANTYAn additional advantage of having one supplier for the entire build-up is the reassurance that all products, which are designed as a system, are fully compatible. Moreover, you get a single-point warranty. For the Glenvale Park schools, we even extended our standard 20-year Sopracover warranty to 25 years. Finally, all the fire requirements of BROOF(t4) are of course covered.EXCITING PROJECTS AHEADBoth the nursery and the primary school have been completed. The buildings look stunning and perform excellently. The complexity of this project is what makes it stand out, showcasing the advantages of employing a complete system tailored to unique installations. And more exciting collaborations between Rock Roofing and Soprema are in the pipeline.Interested in our one-stop shop approach for your own project? Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions.