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Reflective Liquid Waterproofing: Case Study of a New Residential Roof in Turin
In today’s construction landscape — where energy efficiency, durability, and sustainable materials play an increasingly central role — waterproofing large roof surfaces has become a strategic phase of any building project
For a major new residential construction site in Turin, the client opted for an advanced liquid waterproofing system capable of outperforming traditional bituminous membranes while contributing to improved indoor comfort through temperature reduction. Covering an area of approximately 1,000 m², this intervention highlights how modern liquid-applied technologies can overcome geometric complexity, ensure long-term watertightness, and significantly reduce summer heat gain.
Project Requirements and Objectives
The project required a waterproofing system that would:
- Guarantee continuous, long-term waterproofing
- Reduce the roof’s thermal absorption
- Adapt to complex geometries (parapet walls, upstands, protrusions)
- Simplify installation, maintenance, and future repairs
- Provide a walkable, resistant base for photovoltaic systems
The aim was to implement a forward-thinking, sustainable solution without relying on traditional bituminous membranes.
Technical Challenges of the Residential Roof
Complex Geometries
The roof features several architectural complexities: parapets, upstands, and protruding elements. Torch-applied membranes in such areas create risks due to overlaps, weak points, and flame application. Liquid waterproofing was essential to ensure perfect continuity across all surfaces and safe, flame-free installation.
Walkability and Load Resistance
Since the roof was designed to support photovoltaic systems, the waterproofing layer needed to be walkable, mechanically resistant, and durable without compromising structural integrity.
The Winkler Solution: WINGUM PLUS® H2O REFLEX
The selected system is WINGUM PLUS® H2O REFLEX — Winkler’s white, reflective, elastomeric water-based liquid waterproofing membrane, designed to combine waterproofing performance with thermal efficiency.
Key technical features:
- Full waterproofing and resistance to prolonged ponding water.
- Up to 50% surface temperature reduction compared to dark roofs.
- Forms a continuous “second skin” over parapets and architectural details.
- Versatilità di posa: applicazione fluida che riveste muretti e dettagli architettonici come una “seconda pelle” continua.
- Water-based and solvent-free — ideal for residential environments.
- Excellent elasticity, UV resistance, and adhesion on a variety of substrates.
Certifications and Performance Advantages
Quality Standards
The product complies with the most stringent international and national guidelines:
- EAD 030350-00-040 — European guideline for liquid-applied waterproofing systems
- UNI 11928-1 — Italian standard for liquid-applied membranes
Reflectance Certifications
- SRI 108, certified by Istituto Giordano
- Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC) rating, confirming high solar reflectance, high thermal emittance, and contribution to reducing the urban heat island effect
These certifications validate the system as both a waterproofing solution and a true thermal shield.
Results and Collaboration
The intervention delivered:
- A white, reflective, continuous membrane over 1,000 m²
- A perfectly watertight, joint-free surface
- Significant thermal improvements for the top-floor apartments
- A walkable, durable finish suitable for photovoltaic systems
The client expressed full satisfaction with the results. Thanks to the quality of the intervention, the contractor became an official Winkler applicator, confirming confidence in the performance and reliability of the system.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
What are the advantages of liquid waterproofing compared to bituminous membranes?
Liquid solutions such as WINGUM PLUS® H2O REFLEX eliminate joints and overlaps, remove the need for flame-based installation, and adapt perfectly to parapets, pipes, and complex roof geometries
How does the white colour help reduce energy consumption?
With an SRI of 108, the membrane reflects a high portion of solar radiation, lowering roof surface temperature by up to 50% and enhancing indoor comfort.
Is the system suitable for supporting a photovoltaic installation?
Yes. It is designed to be walkable and mechanically resistant, making it ideal for installing and maintaining solar panels.
What do the Istituto Giordano certification and CRRC rating certify?
They certify solar reflectance and thermal emittance, proving the system’s ability to contribute to passive cooling and energy efficiency.
