Project: Lancaster University Management School
Address: Lancaster University, Management School, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4YW
Architects: Cassidy and Ashton
Contractor: Conlon Construction
Roof size: 500m2
Roof system: Alumasc Derbigum Built – Up Felt System, Tapered Insulation, Derbicoat Alu AVCL, 20 year guarantee
Bauder Green Roof system- BauderGREEN SDF, BauderGREEN XF 301 sedum blanket system
About the project:
As part of the East Estate Redevelopment, the original Lancaster University Management School building was upgraded to align with the standards set by the West Pavilion. The refurbishment focused on creating modern teaching environments, alongside enhanced breakout areas, informal study spaces, and improved meeting facilities.
The development also included the construction of a new link corridor connecting the East Estate to the main entrance within the West Pavilion, as well as the introduction of a centralised careers zone within the School. Additional improvements included an expanded PC lab, along with a new café and dedicated staff lounge area, contributing to a more functional and contemporary learning environment.
Our role in the project
Here at Enviroply Roofing, we were pleased to be working with Conlon Construction on the refurbishment of the roof at Lancaster University Management School, as part of the wider East Estate Redevelopment.
The project involved the full refurbishment of the existing flat roof areas, alongside the installation of specialist roofing systems to newly constructed areas including the link corridor and canopy. Across the project, a combination of Alumasc Derbigum built-up felt systems and Bauder green roof systems were installed, delivering high levels of waterproofing performance, thermal efficiency and long-term durability.
Main roof areas: Alumasc Derbigum built-up felt system
Air and Vapour Control Layer (AVCL)
The roofing build-up began with the installation of the Derbicoat Alu AVCL. This high-performance vapour control layer incorporates an aluminium core with SBS modified bitumen, providing excellent resistance to the passage of water vapour.
The AVCL was torch-applied to achieve a continuous bond across the substrate, with all laps sealed to form a fully effective vapour barrier. This layer plays a critical role in preventing condensation within the roof build-up and protecting the long-term integrity of the system.
Insulation layer
Following the AVCL, Alumasc BGT PIR insulation boards were installed as part of a tapered insulation scheme. The cut-to-falls design was used to:
- Create effective drainage across the roof
- Eliminate standing water
- Achieve the required thermal performance targets
The insulation boards were bonded using PU insulation adhesive, ensuring a secure and stable substrate ready to receive the waterproofing system.
Waterproofing membrane
The waterproofing system was completed using the Alumasc Derbigum built-up felt system. This consisted of:
- Derbicoat underlay
- Derbigum mineral cap sheet
Both layers were torch-applied in accordance with manufacturer guidelines, forming a durable, multi-layer waterproofing system. The mineral cap sheet provides additional protection against UV exposure, weathering and general wear, ensuring long-term performance.
Detailing and finishing for main roof areas
Detailing works were carried out in accordance with Alumasc specifications to ensure full weathertightness and durability. The key detailing elements included:
- Formation of upstands and terminations using separate flashing pieces
- Installation of termination bars to secure waterproofing at vertical interfaces
- Sealing of all laps to ensure a continuous waterproof layer
- Integration of outlets and penetrations into the waterproofing system
All works were completed in line with Safe2Torch guidelines, reducing fire risk during installation and ensuring safe working practices throughout the project.
Link corridor roof: Bauder extensive green roof system
System build-up
The link corridor roof was constructed using a Bauder extensive green roof system installed over a new metal deck structure. The system build-up included:
- Bauder waterproofing system (as per specification)
- BauderGREEN SDF drainage and protection layer
- BauderGREEN XF 301 sedum blanket system
This lightweight system incorporates a pre-cultivated vegetation blanket made up of sedum, mosses and grasses, providing an attractive and sustainable roofing solution.
Drainage and vegetation layer
A combined drainage and protection layer was installed directly above the waterproofing membrane to manage water flow and protect the roof structure.
The sedum blanket system was then laid in rolls, ensuring full coverage across the roof area. The blankets were carefully positioned and butted together to prevent gaps, creating a consistent vegetated finish.
To support long-term performance, the system also included:
- Pebble vegetation barriers to perimeters and penetrations
- Edge retention trims to contain the green roof build-up
- Integrated irrigation system to support plant establishment
Canopy roof: Bauder extensive green roof system
System installation
The canopy roof areas were completed using the same Bauder XF 301 sedum blanket system, installed over a plywood deck structure. The build-up mirrored the link corridor roof and included:
- Waterproofing layer
- Drainage and protection layer
- Pre-grown sedum vegetation blanket
This ensured consistency in both performance and appearance across all green roof areas.
Detailing and finishing
Edge trims were installed around all perimeters and protrusions to retain the system build-up and provide a neat finish.
Pebble vegetation barriers were incorporated to:
- Prevent vegetation encroachment into drainage areas
- Protect upstands and penetrations
- Improve overall drainage performance
Irrigation pipework was installed and tested to ensure effective watering during the establishment period.
Project outcome at Lancaster University Management School
The roofing works at Lancaster University Management School were completed to a high standard, delivering a fully refurbished roofing system across both existing and newly constructed areas.
By combining Alumasc Derbigum built-up felt systems with Bauder green roof technology, the project achieved a practical and durable solution tailored to the different roof applications across the site.
The roofing work achieved the standards needed to secure a 20 year guarantee.
