Innovations in bitumen roofing

Focus on sustainability, circularity and longevity

A substantial CO₂reduction, high-quality processing of recycled content, a long lifespan, minimal maintenance costs and a significant reduction in indoor temperatures: our roofs have to meet ever higher requirements. Derbigum is happy to go along with this. "The easiest way to reduce our ecological footprint is to maximize the lifespan of our products," believes John Poppelaars, director of Derbigum Nederland BV. "But also by actively collecting bitumen and recycling it into new raw material, according to our philosophy of 'No Roof To Waste.' Our Derbigum NT bituminous top layer, which contains at least 25% of recycled content and can be recycled 100% at the end of its service life, is perfectly in line with this."

Derbigum specializes in bitumen roofing for flat roofs. "At first glance, bitumen and ecology seem to have little in common, yet there is a connection," said Poppelaars. "Because although bitumen is a petroleum-based product, it is the most ecological solution for waterproofing flat roofs. Derbigum roofing membranes have a proven lifespan of at least 40 years. After that, they can easily be overlaid with an additional Derbigum NT bituminous top layer and face the next 40 years worry-free. At the end of this long service life, Derbigum roofing membranes integral and 100% can be recycled into high-quality raw material for new roofing membranes: Derbitumen. Our recycling process has a significantly lower environmental impact than bitumen production via natural gas extraction. Thus, we contribute to the circular economy in a unique way."

Full-fledged secondary raw material

Derbitumen is extracted from three waste streams, Poppelaars says. "We recycle our own production residues. In addition, we encourage our approved processors to collect their clean cutting residues in the Derbigum big bags provided for that purpose. We also collect old and suitable removed roofing membranes through various channels. The various waste streams are carefully processed at our recycling plant in Perwez, Belgium, after which they are reused again and as a full-fledged secondary raw material in our production. For example, for Derbigum NT; a bituminous roofing membrane based on New Technologies (NT)."

Minimum 25% recycled bitumen

Derbigum NT consists of at least 25% of recycled bitumen. "By overcoming the extraction, processing and transportation of virgin raw materials, we emit significantly less CO₂ out," Poppelaars emphasizes. "Exactly how big these savings are, we demonstrate for each project in a CO₂-reduction certificate. This allows the CO₂-reduction of roofs to be included in, for example, a CO₂-saving process." The CO₂-reduction calculation has been validated by PWC. In addition, Derbigum NT has been awarded KOMO and DUBOkeur® certification. "With every Derbigum roof delivered, we offer a take-back guarantee, which ensures our circular ambition also in the future."

Saving energy with white roofing

For those who like to keep their heads cool in the summer, without (too) high energy bills, Derbigum developed several white roof coverings. "The indoor temperature with a white roof covering is significantly lower than with a black roof (Cool Roof effect). This reduces the cooling load of the building and the air conditioning, for example, does not have to work as hard," said Poppelaars. "Moreover, the cooling effect of white roofing has a positive effect on the efficiency of the solar panels. Efficiency improvements of up to 15% are no exception." For those who want to experience the benefits of white roofing, Derbigum's products include the Derbigum Aquatop Reflective White and Derbicolor FR with reflective top coat of mineral white shingles. "These products also have a guaranteed long service life of 40 years. The composite glass/polyester reinforcement of Derbicolor FR also provides very strong tensile and punching resistance."

Showpiece

Derbigum Netherlands' flagship product is still the Derbigum SP FR; the ideal waterproofing membrane for all types of flat roofs. "With Derbigum SP FR we have had a top product in house for decades, which meets the market requirements in every respect," said Poppelaars. "The bituminous roofing, with a thickness of 4 mm, can be applied as either a multi-layer or single-layer system, requires very little maintenance and is distinguished by perfect dimensional stability, tear and punch resistance. The product offers the ultimate protection for buildings in all climates and conditions and is also suitable for roof gardens, roof terraces and parking roofs. What is also unique is the long lifespan of Derbigum SP FR. We will soon be releasing a new lifespan report demonstrating a functional lifespan of no less than 50 years (!). It doesn't get any better than this! Who invests in Derbigum SP FR, invests in a sustainable future."