The standard for flat roofs has become a benchmark for waterproofing products. Nine certifications were awarded by the CSFE and the CSTB during a meeting at the end of June.

Launched at the end of 2023 by the CSFE (French Waterproofing Association) in partnership with the CSTB, the QB55 flat roof certification is now a true quality marker for waterproofing products under heavy protection. The result: a foundation of trust, built by and for the industry, at a time when it is embarking on a structural regulatory shift. Long governed by Technical Approvals, some waterproofing products have gradually moved beyond this assessment procedure to enter the so-called traditional domain. This regulatory development, while removing certain administrative constraints, can also reveal areas of uncertainty regarding the consistency and quality of processes. QB55 was designed to anticipate these risks, in order to offer a clear, readable framework, supported by precise and verified technical requirements, for the benefit of installers, distributors and prescribers.

A Voluntary Approach

QB55 certification is based on a voluntary approach by manufacturers wishing to promote the quality and durability of their products. A winning bet: 10 manufacturers already hold the certification (see next page), 20 certificates have been issued, and six accredited laboratories are participating in the assessment. This represents broad market coverage in record time. This momentum demonstrates the interest of stakeholders in a simple, reliable, and unifying tool.

A Suitable Sector

Roof terraces are now at the heart of responses to climate change: summer comfort, heat island mitigation, rainwater retention, support for vegetation or photovoltaic panels... all applications that reinforce the quality requirements for waterproofing. QB55 meets this requirement precisely: it certifies single or double-layer bituminous coatings (SBS or APP), as well as PVC-P synthetic coatings, for installation under heavy protection – excluding mountain climates.

Prospects for expansion

The ambition doesn't stop there. The CSFE and the CSTB are considering extending the scope of QB55 to other waterproofing processes, with the aim of gradually covering the entire flat roof spectrum. In particular, the integration of profiled aluminum flashing strips and the enhancement of the thermoreflective performance of certain membranes are under consideration – a promising lever for mitigating the effects of global warming in urban areas.

Rapid adoption

This was emphasized by the professionals gathered on June 24th at a meeting held in Paris. Manufacturers, installation companies, and representatives of professional organizations all welcomed this structuring initiative, both easily accessible and rigorous. As Gérald Faure, President of the CSFE, pointed out, "waterproofing is often invisible, even though it is essential."

It fully contributes to the sustainability and energy performance of buildings, while supporting their resilient adaptations in the face of climate change." The same is true of the CSTB. For its president, Étienne Crépon, QB55 embodies a "collective desire" to guarantee, over time, the quality and reliability of the processes used in such a strategic position. An approach that is "fundamental to the performance of buildings and the comfort of users." In a context of regulatory pressure, increasing environmental requirements, and accelerating innovation, QB55 therefore appears to be a valuable tool for securing technical choices, providing benchmarks for the market, and promoting committed manufacturers. It is also a lever for installation companies, who can now rely on a clear, shared, and recognized label. At a time when flat roofs are becoming a true area of innovation, the QB55 certification thus lays the foundations for a common standard, supported by the profession, in the service of quality.

The ten companies holding QB55 certification: Bauder, BMI-Siplast, Danosa France, FDT France, Iko-Axter, Imper Italia, Renoli, Sika (and its subsidiary Index), Soprema, and Texsa.

Brice-Alexandre Roboam

Photo credits: CSTB-CSFE, André-Marie Dutrieux

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