Roof
roof pitch
Drempel
Flat roof
Upper floor slab
Solid ceiling
timber-beamed ceiling
Nail binder
Attic conversion
External wall
Façade
Partition joint in a house
cellar wall
Ground floor
cellar ceiling
Stairway to the cellar
Solid ceiling
Cap ceiling
Timber joist floor/cavity
Special components
Many industrial roofs currently have inadequate or outdated insulation with high U-values. There may be visible damage and leaks. They are exposed to the elements and do not meet current standards. Urgent refurbishment and insulation work are required to improve energy efficiency and minimise heat loss. A professional assessment is recommended.
The insulation process for a flat roof with top-of-roof insulation begins with thorough preparation of the roof, including cleaning and checking for damage. If the existing insulation layers are still functional, dimensionally stable and securely in place, they can be retained within the roof structure.
The flat roof insulation boards are then laid on top of the vapour barrier to ensure effective thermal insulation. The insulation boards have a stepped joint to ensure seamless insulation. Only compression-resistant insulation boards may be used. Lightweight insulation materials are advantageous where the roof’s load-bearing capacity is limited.
Plastic or bitumen membranes are used as the outer waterproofing layer of the roof. Plastic membranes are mechanically fastened. Bitumen membranes are bonded in place. The overlaps are welded to ensure a permanent seal.
Finally, all connections and details are carefully sealed to ensure optimum waterproofing. The edges and junctions are finished with particular care to protect the roof from moisture ingress.
As a rule of thumb, the thickness of the insulation should be chosen so as to achieve a U-value of 0.1 W/(m²K). This value is often regarded as the optimum for a roof’s thermal insulation and comfort.
All the benefits at a glance
Lower heating costs: Well-planned and effective roof insulation can generally lead to savings on heating costs of around 20% to 40% – based on the roof area – or even more. However, this figure is a rough estimate and may vary depending on the specific conditions of the building and the insulation. It is not possible to give a percentage saving for the whole building, as this depends heavily on other factors (the height and volume of the building, ventilation, heating, windows, etc.).
Further benefits:
- Sound insulation: Reduction in external noise.
- Fire protection: Slows the spread of fire.
- Heat protection in summer: A more comfortable indoor climate.
- Preservation of value: Extends the roof’s service life.
- Environmental friendliness: Reduced energy consumption and CO₂ emissions.
- Better working conditions: A more comfortable indoor climate for staff.
Financial support: If a U-value of 0.14 W/m²K (or lower) is achieved, this measure is eligible for a 15 per cent grant (or even 20 per cent if an iSFP is drawn up).
Can I install the insulation myself? No, it is important that the work is carried out by experienced professionals to ensure it is done properly and to achieve the best possible results. Proper insulation improves the building’s energy efficiency and helps to reduce energy consumption.
