Blue Roof Systems
Sustainable Drainage Roofing Solutions
We design, specify, and install blue roof systems tailored to project requirements, ensuring integration with various roof coverings and insulation products.
These systems are developed as part of a fully coordinated roof build-up, aligned with drainage performance, structural considerations, and relevant industry guidance.
What is a Blue Roof?
A blue roof system is designed to temporarily store rainwater at roof level and control discharge rates, supporting sustainable drainage strategies. This helps to:
- Reduce peak water runoff
- Manage drainage capacity
- Support wider SuDS (Sustainable Drainage Systems) strategies
Applications
- Urban developments
- Podium decks and terraces
- Commercial buildings
- Projects with drainage constraints
Design & Guidance
Blue roof systems are designed in accordance with recognized industry guidance, including:
- CIRIA SuDS Manual (C753)
- Project-specific drainage strategies
- Relevant structural and waterproofing systems standards
Key considerations include:
- Storage capacity and flow control
- Structural load implications
- Drainage outlet design and overflow provision
- Integration with waterproofing systems and insulation products
Fire & System Performance
Blue roofs introduce additional complexity to the roof build-up and must be considered as part of the overall system design. We consider:
- Compatibility of waterproofing systems within the full build-up
- External fire performance requirements where applicable (e.g. BROOF(t4))
- Detailing at penetrations, outlets, and upstands
- Interaction between layers under both wet and fire conditions
System performance is determined by the complete build-up, not individual components.
Our Approach
We design blue roof systems as integrated assemblies, ensuring:
- Coordination between drainage, waterproofing systems, and structural elements
- Compatibility of materials and components, including insulation products
- Robust detailing at interfaces and penetrations
Where appropriate, we work with tested or proven system build-ups and align designs with project-specific requirements.