Derbigum Olivine Provides Environmental Benefits at Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent University is one of the largest universities in the UK, with around 28,000 students spread over three campuses.

As part of a recent refurbishment programme at the Clifton Campus, the roof of the Clifton Library building was fully stripped and replaced with Alumasc’s Derbigum Olivine mineral roofing membrane.

Alumasc’s expert technical team carried out a condition-based survey of the existing roof and put forward a complete design package to be installed by M&J Roofing Ltd.

Derbigum Olivine was identified as the most appropriate waterproofing solution which offered added environmental benefits. Derbigum Olivine is a bituminous membrane with a naturally occurring mineral upper layer that neutralises CO² in rainwater, via an irreversible chemical reaction. The membrane boasts a 30-year life expectancy and is 100% recyclable.

Alumasc’s full system solution also included their Fascia system, Rooflights and Harmer Roof Outlets.

Alumasc provided a full re-design of existing falls to ensure adequate drainage could be achieved on the new roof.  This included additional insulation being laid to the falls of the internal water outlets – which in turn increased the perimeter detail, creating the project’s greatest challenge.

M&J Roofing’s MD Peter Henrickson, explains:

“Insulation was incorporated into all of the edge details to avoid cold bridging and the potential for condensation. To address this issue, the increased height of the edge detail was covered by a bespoke Alumasc aluminium polyester powder coated fascia board, supplied in a colour to match the new window installations.”

Work also had to be scheduled around other contractors working on site and in addition, staff and students needed to remain in situ throughout the installation. In support of M&J Roofing and to keep the University up to date at each stage, Alumasc’s technical team conducted weekly site inspections, carrying out both written and photographic reports.

M&J Roofing installed a total of 1000m² of Derbigum Olivine, resulting in the library being a much more comfortable space for students and staff to work in, with the new roof also boosting the building’s environmental credentials.

Project Manager Dean Throop from the University’s Estates & Resources Department, comments:

“The new roof is a robust specification to ensure the water integrity of the building, whilst also helping us to reach our 2020 target of a 48% reduction in CO².  I had no reservations about using Olivine, which is backed up by a full Alumasc warranty.  The Clifton Library is one of the most heavily used buildings on the campus and it’s reassuring to know that we have greater protection from water ingress, as well as the additional benefit of boosting NTU’s sustainability.”

If you would like further information regarding the Derbigum Olivine Membrane then contact Alumasc on +44 (0)1744 648400.

Alternatively download the brochure by clicking here

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