Elevate EMEA’s RubberGard EPDM Waterproofing Membrane: Enhancing Urban Biodiversity in Apartment Blocks

The RubberGard EPDM waterproofing membrane from Elevate EMEA played a crucial role in the creation of a green roof at Casa d’en Xifré, an apartment block located in Barcelona. Originally constructed in 1837, Casa d’en Xifré comprises six buildings that underwent rehabilitation in 2019, including the addition of a green roof. The project aimed to connect the roofs of the buildings, transforming them into an accessible terrace garden to promote urban biodiversity.

Design Concept

MataAlta studio, the winners of an open competition promoted by the Barcelona City Council, conceptualized the design based on the theme of ‘rewilding.’ The focus was on reintroducing nature into urban spaces, emphasizing self-sufficiency, social interaction, and biodiversity. The green roof design included various elements such as insect hotels, water ponds, nesting structures, fish ponds, and composters.

Materiality and Structure

The materials selected for the project were chosen to minimize the carbon footprint. A detailed structural study was conducted to assess the load-bearing capacity of the roofs, considering the added weight of the green roof. The roof structure comprised the following layers:

1. Bottom geotextile layer made from traditional Catalan ceramic tiles
2. RubberGard EPDM waterproofing membrane from Elevate EMEA
3. Second geotextile layer
4. Drainage layer with an irrigation system
5. Soil layer, ranging from 20 to 40 cm in depth, serving as waterproofing, sound and thermal insulation, and the foundation for vegetation.

Vegetation

The green roof primarily features native perennial plants selected for their pollinator-friendly characteristics, aromatic properties, drought and disease resistance, and pollution-filtering abilities. The roof can retain up to 50% of water, with any excess stored in an underground cistern for irrigation during dry periods. Additionally, the garden serves as a recreational and social space for the building’s residents.

Project Details

• Location: Barcelona, Spain
• Project Type: Renovation
• Surface Area: 1300 sqm
• System: Ballasted roof
• Elevate EMEA Products Used: RubberGard EPDM 1.5 mm

In conclusion, Elevate EMEA’s RubberGard EPDM waterproofing membrane played a vital role in transforming the rooftops of Casa d’en Xifré into vibrant green spaces, promoting urban biodiversity, environmental sustainability, and social interaction among residents.