Client: The Marlowe Academy
Arcitect: BDP
Roofing contractor: Tilbury Contracts
Type of works: Alumasc has supplied its Derbigum high-performance roof membrane system, for the RIBA 2007 award-winning Marlowe Academy in Kent.

The design of the academy’s lower-level roof presented a number of challenges. Single ply Derbigum was chosen for its speed of installation and its ability to cope with the high level of complex detailing required. A significant quantity of plant and machinery was located on the roof and the Academy chose Derbigum as it guaranteed a BBA certified waterproof membrane which offered them high performance and durability, during maintenance.

The dramatic curved roof layout required careful planning of the radial setting out of the waterproofing layer, prior to installation. Alumasc’s technical team produced a full set of drawings to assist the contractor to lay the Derbigum to follow these curves, minimising wastage and ensuring a clean result.

The environmental credentials of the materials were also paramount. The manufacture of Derbigum under the EN 14001 environmental standard ensured that sustainability issues were given due consideration. In addition, the specification of Derbigum allowed the designers to achieve a high BREEAM rating for the scheme. The requirement for excellent fire performance was also an important factor; Derbigum comfortably meets UK requirements and exceeds the requirements of all elements of DD ENV 1187:2002.

The completed project has dramatically transformed the learning environment for the students and The Marlowe Academy is reassured that the roof will continue to remain watertight for the lifetime of the building.

The project also made use of Alumasc’s innovative Flushjoint rainwater downpipe system and Harmer high-performance roof drain outlets, thus securing the supply of premium products from one trusted source.