Robust roofing system for striking new residential development
JQ Rise is the name of a new residential development that has transformed a brownfield site in Birmingham (UK). The landmark scheme comprises 226 high-quality apartments across three blocks of four, eight, and twenty-five storeys.
| Project ID | |
|---|---|
| Location | Birmingham, UK |
| Project type | New Build |
| Building type | Residential building |
| Roof surface | ca. 1,850 m² |
| Product used | RubberGard EPDM 1.5 mm |
| System used | Fully adhered |
Architecturally, JQ Rise provides a bold new addition to Birmingham’s skyline. Positioned at the gateway to the historic Jewellery Quarter and the city centre, the development features clean vertical lines, stepped façades and a carefully selected mix of materials that reflect the area's architecture.
High performance specification
Elevate’s RubberGard EPDM roofing membrane was specified to deliver long-lasting protection across multiple flat roof areas ranging from 200 to 1,600 square metres. The roofing system also included non-combustible DensDeck Prime roof boards and stone wool insulation.
Providing exceptional durability, RubberGard EPDM can elongate by over 300% in all directions to accommodate building movements and temperature fluctuations. It also provides unrivalled resistance to ozone, UV radiation and extreme temperatures. These characteristics not only maximise performance but reduce maintenance requirements.
Aligning with the Jewellery Quarter Neighbourhood Plan, a brown roof was incorporated on the eight-storey block. Allowing wildlife to self populate and plants to grow naturally from seed dispersal, the brown roof will promote biodiversity. Resistant to root penetration, RubberGard EPDM provides a resilient waterproofing solution for extensive green and biodiversity roofs.
The DensDeck Prime roof boards consist of a water and moisture resistant gypsum core, laminated on both sides with a matt glass facer. The patented design significantly strengthens the roofing system.
Streamlined installation
The DensDeck Prime roof boards were installed over the insulation and were mechanically fixed to the concrete substrate ensuring durability and wind resistance. The RubberGard EPDM membrane was then fully adhered onto the boards.
The lightweight nature of RubberGard EPDM made it particularly well suited to the high-rise construction and varying roof levels. Supplied in large sheets, RubberGard EPDM significantly reduced on-site seaming and was easily installed around detailing, including abseil post penetrations.
To accommodate the abseil posts, the roofing contractors applied 100 mm of insulation to the inside of the parapet, followed by the DensDeck Prime roof boards and the RubberGard EPDM membrane. Pockets were carefully cut for the posts and galvanised plastic-coated frames installed around them to allow precise detailing using Elevate’s self-adhesive QuickSeam FormFlash. The odourless, flame-free installation was safe and efficient, mitigating potential fire risks.
Throughout the process, Elevate’s local technical team conducted site inspections at key stages, offering guidance and ensuring consistent quality across all roof areas.
Built to last
The overall result is a high performing, robust roofing system that matches the architectural significance of this major residential development. Ensuring outstanding resilience, RubberGard EPDM will provide long-term protection for decades to come.
