60,000 m² of Elevate UltraPly TPO roofing membrane for carbon neutral distribution center in Kortrijk
The family group Van Marcke, one of the main players in sanitary and heating equipment in Belgium, wanted their new European Distribution Center in Kortrijk (Belgium) to be a model of energy efficiency and sustainability. The client, together with architect agency AAVO Architects, rigorously selected each component to design an environmentally friendly building. Elevate’s UltraPly TPO thermoplastic roofing system met their demanding specifications thanks to its carbon balance, which is among the best in the market for the waterproofing of flat roofs.
| Project ID | |
|---|---|
| Location | Kortrijk, Belgium |
| Application | PV roofs |
| Project type | New build |
| Building type | Industrial building |
| Surface | 60,000 m² |
| Products | Elevate UltraPly TPO 1.1 mm |
| System | Mechanically attached |
UltraPly TPO advantages are several: its white color reflects the sun's rays, contributing to the building’s energy efficiency and providing thermal comfort to employees and drivers who come to load their trucks. Designed to last, the membrane has a woven frame which strengthens its resistance to punching and tearing. A real advantage during hailstorms which are becoming more and more sudden and violent.
UltraPly TPO is also compatible with photovoltaic and green roof systems. About 15,000 solar panels were installed on the roof of Van Marcke’s logistics platform to ensure its own energy production. A green roof section will be installed over the offices.
Another key requirement for this project was the collection of rainwater. UltraPly TPO is a thermoplastic membrane that does not release any harmful substances, therefore it provided the ideal solution. Rainwater will be collected with a storage capacity of 500,000 liters, ensuring operation during 90 days without contribution of the public water network.
Gilles Adams, representative of Master Contractor Mutec, explains: "In total, about 60,000 m² of UltraPly TPO roofing membrane, combined with 100 mm-thick polyurethane insulation boards, were installed over the concrete structure of the roof."
The membrane was mechanically fixed and the joints were welded with hot air. The wide rolls reduced the number of joints. Flexible thanks to the large quantity of rubber in its formulation and its thickness of 1.1 mm, UltraPly TPO made cutting on site easier. A criterion of choice for this roof which is covered with a multitude of skylights.
