The expert's opinion
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10/20/2025
A roof above our heads: the importance of a good design
Technology, standards and design: how the role of roofing is changing in modern construction
Carlo Luisi, Commercial Director at Polyglass SpA, explores the evolving role of roofing in modern construction, emphasizing its impact on technical, environmental, and regulatory levels. He highlights the growing importance of design quality and professional responsibility in ensuring durable, sustainable, and high-performing roof systems. Manufacturers are increasingly supporting designers through integrated technical support. The future of roofing lies in innovation and sustainability, demanding a cultural shift toward more conscious and responsible design.
Despite being critical to a building’s performance and a frequent source of insurance claims and litigation, roof waterproofing is often inadequately addressed in current regulations, resulting in waterproofing systems that in many cases are poorly designed and executed. Global sales figures show that low-cost commodity products still account for the majority of sales volumes, while the specialty segment remains a niche market. Internationally, however, there are signs of change. In more mature markets such as Northern Europe and North America, roofs are conceived as multifunctional platforms capable of generating energy, regulating the urban microclimate and contributing to environmental resilience. In emerging countries, by contrast, there is growing demand for lightweight, precast, easy-to-install solutions suited to the rapid pace of urbanisation. In both scenarios, the message is clear: the roof of the future will be increasingly technological, adaptable and sustainable.
The message is clear: the roof of the future will be increasingly technological, adaptable and sustainable
The roof is a technically integrated system
In contemporary construction, the roof is a technical system that performs multiple functions: protection from the elements, thermal and acoustic insulation, structural strength, energy efficiency and, more than ever, environmental sustainability. In this complex scenario, the design process takes on an essential role, leading to greater accountability for the professionals involved.
Nonetheless, the importance of roofing design is still often underestimated. While technical regulations are essential to define waterproofing systems, they remain inadequate. All too often, this leads to a short-sighted approach on the part of professionals, who fail to recognise the long-term costs or even the damage their choices may cause. Where relevant, responsibility can also extend to site management. Underestimating the importance of technical standards is not only unprofessional but can also have significant legal and insurance consequences.
The roofs of Cypress Cove, a residential complex located in Fort Myers (Florida, USA), underwent extensive roof renovation using Polyglass waterproofing solutions
The role of manufacturers: technical support for designers
Alongside research and development of high-performance solutions, companies in the sector are investing in technical support for professionals and considering the “roofing system” as a whole. As well as recommending the most appropriate bituminous or synthetic membranes for each project, it is essential to consider all related factors including vapour barriers, thermal insulation, hygrometric calculations, fixings, seismic and wind loads, and fire performance, especially when photovoltaic panels are installed.
Designers rely on manufacturers for technical specifications, build-ups, construction details, technical data sheets for recommended products, maintenance manuals (an aspect that is too often overlooked) and in some cases even certificates of conformity issued by an accredited third party to confirm compliance with current regulations.
This practical support enhances the designer’s expertise, improving its accuracy and reliability rather than replacing it.
The Elite Park residential complex in Budapest (Hungary) features green roofs waterproofed with Polyglass bituminous membranes.
Future challenges: sustainability and innovation
Looking ahead, the roofing segment is poised to play a decisive role in construction by addressing future challenges such as sustainability, environmental impact, renewable energy and the circular economy.
Examples include cool roofs with large reflective surfaces that mitigate thermal fluctuations; green roofs that reduce environmental impact, improve thermal and acoustic insulation and enhance air quality; blue roofs that act as water reservoirs and ease peak rainwater loads on sewer systems; fire- and hail-resistant waterproofing technologies; and future technological innovations that have not yet reached the market.
However, without a solid technical and regulatory framework, innovation becomes risky. In response, the sector needs a renewed focus on design quality, regulatory knowledge and greater awareness of professional responsibility.
The technology and tools are available. What is needed now is a cultural shift that places roof design back at the centre of the construction process.
After all, the roof above our heads is what protects, insulates and connects us to the climate and the environment. Designing it well is not just a technical matter but an act of responsibility towards the quality of tomorrow’s buildings.
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A garden on a concave roof for the new Museum of Ethnography in Budapest
