Vanvitelli
University

Ventilated Roof

Type Historical building – used for educational and administrative purposes
Intervention Renovation and energy-efficiency upgrade of the roof
Location Capua, Italy
Roof insulation Isotec by Brianza Plastica – 120 mm thick, 360 mm pitch
Roof cladding New and reused pantiles

The project

The Economics Department of the “Luigi Vanvitelli” University of Campania in Capua, Italy, is housed in a complex of significant historical value protected by the Superintendency. Formerly the convent of Santa Maria delle Dame Monache, the building dates back to between the 9th and 10th centuries AD. Over the centuries, the structure has undergone numerous transformations, evolving from a convent into a strictly cloistered monastery and later, in the early 19th century, into a military barracks. Since 2007, following extensive restoration, the complex has been used for university activities, accommodating classrooms and spaces dedicated to the department’s administrative functions.

The intervention

The redevelopment works focused on restoring both the opaque and transparent elements of the building envelope. Particular attention was paid to the roof, which required refurbishment due to widespread rainwater infiltration. The use of the Isotec ventilated thermal insulation System made it possible to significantly enhance the roof’s energy performance, delivering a functional and stable build-up with excellent durability over time.
The extensive double-pitched roof, with a total surface area of 5,200 m² and showing clear signs of severe deterioration, was completely dismantled. Pantiles in good condition were carefully recovered and set aside for subsequent reinstallation. The deteriorated underlying slabs were then removed and disposed of, after which the supporting structure was cleaned and levelled. A waterproof and breathable Elytex-N membrane was laid on the substrate, followed by the installation of Isotec panels with a thickness of 120 mm and a pitch of 360 mm, selected to match the dimensions of the pantiles.

The result

The project successfully combined energy efficiency, durability and respect for the architectural character of the historical building. The construction company, active since 2019 but drawing on extensive experience in the building sector, carried out the work with skill and attention to detail. The system’s ease of handling and installation played a key role in achieving a high-quality result. Upon completion, the redevelopment provided the Department of Economics with a renovated, energy-efficient roof that integrates seamlessly with the existing architectural context.