Mike Vaczi from SOPREMA UK explores how working with roofing providers who can deliver a ‘comprehensive’ offer means better outcomes for landlords, via integrated solutions.
Housing providers face mounting pressures to deliver quality homes while managing increasingly tight budgets and complex regulatory requirements. When it comes to roofing and
waterproofing projects, the traditional approach of sourcing materials and services separately can create risks, inefficiencies and unexpected costs that stretch already limited resources.
However, many landlords are discovering significant benefits from partnering with manufacturers who can provide comprehensive support throughout the entire project lifecycle. This ‘full system’ approach addresses everything from initial surveys and specification development through to installation training, ongoing support, and extended warranties.
Indeed, the complexity of modern waterproofing extends far beyond simply selecting appropriate materials. Today’s projects must balance performance requirements with sustainability objectives, navigate evolving Building Regulations, and ensure long-term durability in challenging environments. Increasingly, success depends on understanding how different components interact within complete systems, rather than viewing products in isolation.
For housing providers, whether in the private or public sector, this complexity creates acute challenges. Limited in-house technical expertise, pressure to minimise disruption to residents, and the need to demonstrate value for money all combine to make roofing projects potentially problematic. Here, working with a single provider who can coordinate all aspects of the project offers a solution that addresses these concerns while potentially delivering better outcomes.
Our recent experience demonstrates the practical benefits of this integrated solution. For example, the Everglades development in Hounslow is a 33-home affordable housing scheme commissioned by the local authority. The project required a complex roofing solution incorporating green roofing areas, solar panels, and varying thermal performance requirements across different building types. We collaborated closely with the main contractor on all design aspects, providing comprehensive system specification, onsite support throughout installation, and ultimately delivering a watertight solution with a 40 year warranty.
Comprehensive assessment
Effective roofing projects begin with a thorough assessment of existing conditions and careful development of specs. Manufacturers with full service capabilities can conduct detailed site surveys using advanced technologies, including drone inspections that provide safer and more efficient assessment of large or difficult to access roofs.
This assessment process identifies potential water ingress points and evaluates site specific conditions that influence material selection. Understanding factors such as building movement, drainage requirements, and environmental exposure allows for more accurate specification of appropriate waterproofing systems.
This process also benefits from manufacturers having access to technical drawings, data sheets and calculation services. For instance, drainage calculations can determine appropriate outlet sizing and placement, while thermal modelling can assess moisture movement and validate insulation performance. Such technical support means that specifications will meet both performance requirements and regulatory compliance from the outset.
For complex projects requiring bespoke solutions, manufacturers with comprehensive capabilities can develop integrated systems that address multiple performance criteria simultaneously. This might involve combining waterproofing, insulation and green roofing elements within a single coordinated system.
Installation support & quality assurance
Once specifications are finalised, an Approved Contractor can provide extensive installation support. This includes detailed installation guidelines, training, and ongoing technical support throughout the construction process.
Professional installation training is particularly valuable for social housing projects, as it will lead to consistent quality across multiple similar buildings, which can significantly impact long-term performance. Training programmes can cover product handling, application techniques and quality control measures, which help to minimise installation errors that could compromise system performance.
During construction, on-site support and guidance help contractors address challenges as they arise. This might include inspections, quality control checks and troubleshooting assistance to ensure waterproofing systems are installed correctly and perform as intended. This real time support can prevent issues that might otherwise require costly remedial work later.
Meanwhile, testing and certification services provide additional assurance that completed installations meet specified performance standards, subject to build up. Independent verification of system performance helps demonstrate compliance with Building Regulations and instils confidence in investments delivering their expected outcomes over the long term.
Long-term warranties & ongoing support
Perhaps one of the most significant advantages of working with a comprehensive roofing provider is access to extended warranty coverage that can span 20 or even 30 years. These warranties provide financial protection against premature failure while demonstrating the manufacturer’s confidence in their systems and installation processes.
However, warranty coverage is only as valuable as the company providing it. Manufacturers with established track records and proven full service capabilities are better positioned to honour warranty commitments over extended periods, which provides peace of mind to social housing providers.
Ongoing maintenance support can further extend system performance and help maximise return on investment. This might include planned inspection programmes, maintenance guidance and access to technical support for any issues that arise during the warranty period. For social housing providers managing large portfolios, this ongoing relationship can provide valuable continuity and expertise.
Crucially, the benefits of comprehensive roofing partnerships extend beyond individual projects to support broader strategic objectives. Reduced project complexity, improved risk management and enhanced long-term performance all contribute to better outcomes for residents while helping housing providers demonstrate effective stewardship of public resources. As the sector continues to face increasing pressures, these integrated solutions offer a practical route to achieving better results while managing costs and risks more effectively.
Mike Vaczi is technical director at SOPREMA UK