Durable roofs in color 

As a pioneer in sustainable roofing, Derbigum developed an innovative recycling process back in the mid-1990s. Following the motto "No roof to waste," around 30 years of old roofing membranes are transformed into new, regenerated membranes. These membranes are not only sustainable, but also reusable and fully recyclable, creating a closed cycle of materials. Since 2007, Derbigum has additionally manufactured and supplied the top layer Derbigum NT (New Technology) and underlayer Derbicoat NT, which have approximately 25 and 30% recycled content respectively. The latest addition within the NT range is Derbicolor NT, with which Derbigum responds to the growing demand for colored membranes. Without compromising on quality and durability.

"Whereas our recycling process initially started with a relatively small supply of recycled bitumen, from 2007 it has grown into an indispensable part of our production," says John Poppelaars, director of Derbigum Nederland BV. "Meanwhile, the intake of old, existing bituminous roofs has also become an important part of our recycling process. Regardless of the brand. At our plant in Perwez, approximately 5,000 tons of bitumen roofing is recycled per year, which we plan to expand to as much as 10,000 tons in the future." Bituminous roofing material is 100% recyclable, he emphasizes. "At Derbigum, 1 kg of recycled bitumen guarantees 1 kg of new bitumen."

Sustainable benefits of Derbigum NT

Since 2007, Derbigum has manufactured and supplied the top layer Derbigum NT (New Technology) and the underlayer Derbicoat NT, which have approximately 25 and 30% of recycled content, respectively. "The inlays are made of recycled material," Poppelaars said. "Also added is 'Derbitumen'; our designation for bitumen produced from the recycling process." Importantly, this retains the proven quality of Derbigum roofing membranes. "Clients are assured of a strong product, with a high passability rating and a proven lifespan of >40 years. Another big advantage in this circular era is that Derbigum approved roofers have been making NT projects since 2007. This gives us so much practical experience and know-how that - combined with various studies - we can guarantee that our NT products achieve the desired quality. The NT products are a permanent part of our delivery program for renovation roofs and new construction roofs, where Derbigum NT is also an important incentive for designers who have to make MPG calculations. This is because of its low MKI value, with which Derbigum NT is included in the National Environmental Database. Derbigum NT also has Cradle-to-Cradle certification."

New developments

Within the No roof to waste concept, in which Derbigum issues a CO2 reduction certificate and a take-back certificate for recycling for the Derbigum NT and Derbicoat NT products, developments are not standing still. For example, a root resistant Derbigum NT WW and Derbicolor NT (slate coating) were recently added to the range. LCA calculations are also being made of these products, on the basis of which an addition to the National Environmental Database will follow. And this is just the beginning, says Poppelaars. "With the No roof to waste concept, we are making choices that will bring us ever closer to our goals, namely environmentally responsible products with high quality and a long lifespan."

Root resistant membrane

With the root resistant Derbigum NT WW membrane, Derbigum is taking the trend of utility and green roofs to an even higher level of sustainability. The root resistant membrane based on recycled bitumen ensures that the roots of plants, shrubs and herbs do not grow from the roof garden through the overlaps. This significantly increases the quality and lifespan of the roofing material.

Durable roofs in color

With the new Derbicolor NT bituminous roofing membrane, Derbigum also provides a durable answer to the demand for colored membranes. The new roofing membrane is available as standard in light gray and white. On request, membranes in dark gray, green and red are additionally available. "Derbicolor NT is KOMO-certified and more than meets all set requirements," says Poppelaars. "The slate coat provides excellent adhesion and coverage, which promotes UV resistance. The top layer is similar to our Derbigum SP FR, whose lifespan is 40+ years. The combination of high-quality recycled bitumen with a slate/granulate color finish makes Derbicolor NT an aesthetically pleasing product comparable to our well-known roofing membranes."

White slate

Most popular in the Derbicolor NT program is the special white shingle. Not surprising, according to Poppelaars, because the reflection and high emission rate (heat emission) of white roofing reduces the heating of the underlying space (Cool Roof effect). "This lowers the cooling load of the building and reduces the need for air conditioning, for example. The sunlight reflection and cooling effect of white roofing also has a positive effect on the efficiency of the solar panels. Also, white roofing is visually very attractive. In short: Derbicolor NT is not only a new step in sustainability, but also aesthetically a responsible choice."