BMI Monier launches classic roofing workshop

To maintain the authentic appearance of a building after renovation or restoration, extra attention to the roof is necessary. Whether it is a monumental building or a 1930s townhouse, the use of the right roof tiles always proves to be image-defining. BMI Monier has been producing and supplying genuine Dutch classic tiles including Oude Holle, Tuile du Nord, Grote Romaanse and Kruispan since 1835. With great craftsmanship and attention to important details such as the original dimensions determined long ago. Because a roof does not consist solely of roof tiles but is a complex system involving much more, BMI Monier is starting a classic roofs workshop. Private and business owners of classic properties, roofers and contractors will be "taught" all aspects of the classic roof.

Insulation and ventilation are also important concerns with classic roofs. The roof has to look exactly as it did 100 years ago, while meeting today's building requirements. This requires craftsmanship and knowledge. At BMI Monier they are happy to share that knowledge. According to Guus Killaars, head of export and responsible for classic roof tiles, the wrong tiles are often used that have nothing to do with real classic Dutch roof tiles. Sizes and colors are incorrect or wrong combinations are made where the tiles do not match the forks used.

What should you pay attention to?

"You recognize a true classic Dutch roof tile immediately," Killaars states, "the right clay, the look of the glaze or engoble layer and the color. All things to pay attention to. If the glaze is not applied properly, craquelé occurs when the layer is too thick or staining occurs when it is too thin. If too much oxygen is added when blue pans are braising, you will have a large color gradient. But that's not all," he continues, "because a roof is a system, you have to oversee the whole thing and make sure all the components fit together. Moreover, aesthetically it is a lot nicer if the roof details flow into each other. This is why we have a matching tile hook and the right screws for every roof tile. We know the right insulation materials and can calculate exactly what the exact distance of the battens should be."

Transferring knowledge

The classic roof is a bit of an understudy, Killaars believes. There are only a few guidelines with regard to the roof at Monumentenzorg, and municipal and provincial regulations are often determined locally. This means that in some places a lot of attention is paid to the roof, but in others the optimal appearance is far from it. "A pity," he states, "with a little expertise, you know exactly how to create a good classic roof. This is not just about the authentic look, but also about the quality of the roof system so that it is guaranteed for many years against wind and weather and offers sufficient insulation and ventilation. Our Roof Service Department has therefore developed the classic roofs workshop. A course that introduces owners, roofers and contractors to the many aspects of the classic roof and helps them make the right choices."

Customization and BIM

On many classic roofs you will find ornaments, special tiles or deviated joints. These are often the eye-catchers of the roof. These are usually no longer available as standard. At BMI Monier, ornamental tiles, flashings, buckling tiles, for example, are custom-made. Often based on an example to be replaced from which a new mold is made. The special parts are ready within six to eight weeks.
To best prepare the construction of a classic roof and determine any customization in advance, BMI Monier has converted all roof tiles, including associated roof system components, into 3D models for BIM modulation. This is also an excellent tool for designers considering a new building with a classic look.

Workshop

The workshop consists of half a day (including lunch) at the factory location in Tegelen and costs € 150,-. Topics include: which tile belongs to which roof, what types of tiles are there, production methods, colors and glaze, replacement or cleaning, repair and maintenance, the roof as a system and what to pay attention to during renovation and restoration. You can register via. www.monier.nl/klassieke-daken. Here you will also find more information about BMI Monier's classic Dutch roof tiles