Flat roofs, foundation for sustainability!

The Climate Roof relies on 4 pillars: reduced CO2 emissions, circularity, multifunctionality and construction sustainability. “Regarding the CO2 aspect, Mutec, part of the Willy Naessens Group, is building a tool together with Encon to calculate the CO2 emissions of the chosen materials of the roof structure from production to end-of-life. In this way we can present the client with a CO2 emission trajectory for each possible material choice. Circularity refers to how old materials are processed, what materials are used, and how they are fixed. In a renovation, consideration is given to whether the roof waterproofing to be removed can have a second life in reuse or as a new raw material. For the selection of new materials, consideration is given to how they, if ever removed, could be reused. For this, the fixing method is important, think about the choice of mechanical fixing versus gluing,” says Van der Stede.

“Multifunctionality refers to the use of the flat roof, with color as a reference: user roof (red), planting (green), water recovery (blue) or solar energy recovery (yellow). Last but not least, the factor of constructional sustainability (the technically correct execution of the work) is where Mutec stands out within the industry. The qualitative installation of the roof waterproofing is crucial for the longevity of the entire roof package. To guarantee this quality, Mutec works with its own academy, where training and supervision by the site supervisors are central,” says Van der Stede. When it comes to sustainability, Mutec is known in the sector for its pioneering role. For example, Mutec pioneered Elevate's TPO solution (instead of plastic) as a roofing material. Mutec remains committed to using sustainable products and the highest quality in execution.

More complex roofs too
Until a few years ago, Mutec mainly focused on flat roofs of industrial buildings. Today, the accompanying office building is no longer a robust block with a plain flat roof. Architectural cachet is becoming more and more important; an office building often consists of several flat roofs - with varying surfaces and shapes. A new challenge that requires more specialisation and expertise on our part,’ says Van der Stede. ‘We think along with the client as much as possible, especially in function of what he wants and his budget. This can be in the choice of materials in terms of sustainability, as well as in the choice of a certain type of insulation in function of the roof's load-bearing capacity. In roof renovations with extra insulation, in function of the installation of solar panels, a lot of extra weight is put on the roof. In the context of renovation projects, the client's Facility Management comes into play. Since they have a very wide range of tasks, this allows us to show our technical added value. We do a visual inspection of the roof or check the structure based on roof incisions to provide the best solution. And of course, safety is an absolute priority, such as temporary or structural fall protection. ‘We want all employees to return home safe and sound in the evening,’ he says.

Wide range of projects
A great case in point is the thorough cooperation with customer and neighbour TVH, in both new construction and renovation projects. Besides Het Nest, which has a green roof - which will also be used as a meeting place - the flat roof of TVH's new fully automated distribution centre (Plant T) will soon be finished by Mutec. Besides industrial and commercial buildings, PPP user projects (WZC, schools etc) are increasingly coming into Mutec's sights. ‘The customer primarily wants a watertight roof at the agreed price. Our added value is mainly in the meticulous follow-up of the planning and correct communication throughout the entire project,’ Van der Stede concludes.

At the end of 2025, Mutec will move into new, more spacious premises consisting of a renovated office building and newly built warehouse. Naturally, the roofs of this will be put to use in the most versatile way possible according to the Climate Roof, this by installing solar panels, recreational space, planting and water recovery.

Bron: Door Philip Declercq

FM Magazine 39