In Leopold Park, in the middle of the European Quarter in Brussels, is the Solvay Library. This historic building was constructed in 1902 on the initiative of Ernest Solvay. Behind the at first sight modest facade lies an impressive library that currently serves as an event venue. A thorough renovation of the exterior facade and roof is currently underway, a project in which Deschacht is once again putting its expertise as a roof specialist in the spotlight. Deschacht is supplying the underlay, wood, and zinc for the gutters and the roof to Van Aelst Projects, which is carrying out the renovation on behalf of Monument.
Rafter system for an authentic look
To guarantee the original appearance of the building, it was decided to install a zinc roll cap roof once again. This roll cap system is the predecessor of the standing seam and is therefore mostly found on older buildings. The system consists of zinc strips with raised edges separated by wooden roll battens. The watertight finish between the roof strips and roll battens is achieved by means of a zinc roll cap. Roll cap roofs are attached to the roof sheating with clips. The clip is placed under the wooden roll batten and secured to the substructure. Subsequently, the clip is hooked around the raised edge of the roof strip. Bending zinc for this roll cap system requires a considerable amount of experience and knowledge. The perfect assignment for Deschacht, which has 6 zinc centers where custom bending work is provided.
Sustainable NedZink Naturel
Nedzink Naturel was chosen as the material. An excellent choice, because thanks to the natural zinc patina layer, this material becomes even more beautiful over the years and under the influence of weather conditions. It provides a natural, vibrant appearance and is also very durable and maintenance-free. Ideal for the renovation of historic buildings.
Complete roof extension
In addition to the zinc, Deschacht also supplied the sarking boards and wooden boarding, purlins, rafters, sarking battens, and roll battens. Celit 4D rigid sarking boards were chosen for the sarking. In addition, Korafleece Plus sarking membrane was installed in areas where the roof was not sufficiently steep.
