Innovative Flattened Bamboo Roofing for Sustainable Architecture
By | July 18, 2023 | Construction -
Explore the history, versatility, and eco-friendliness of Flattened Bamboo Shingles in modern and traditional bamboo architecture. Delve into its pros and cons while learning, step-by-step, how to make your own Pelupuh system.
- Pelupuh layers flattened bamboo shingles with a synthetic waterproofing membrane; it originated in Southeast Asia.
- It suits organic curved rooflines, needs no significant roof inclination, and is light to transport.
- The outer layer needs replacing every 5 to 8 years; the membrane system can last 20 to 25 years.
- Shingles: split a thick-walled pole lengthwise, flatten with interior cuts, remove diaphragms, nail in three layers.
The Origins Of Pelupuh
Originating from the lush landscapes of Southeast Asia, this traditional roofing system has withstood the test of time, protecting homes and sacred structures for centuries.
Particularly in Indonesia, pelupuh has long been part of the craftsmanship and cultural tradition, standing as a testament to the community's cultural identity and harmonious coexistence with the natural surroundings.
From Java to Kalimantan, the pelupuh roofing system has left its mark on Indonesia's architectural terrain. The technique has been adopted in Javanese Joglo houses and the longhouses of Dayak communities, adding character to their communal dwellings, Rumah Panjang. Even in Bali, Pelupuh has found widespread use in traditional temples, community spaces, and household compounds.
The pelupuh system has also spread to South America, finding resonance with indigenous architectural traditions. Indigenous communities in regions like Colombia and Ecuador have adapted it to suit their unique contexts, often as wall systems or underlayers for the main roofing system. The use of flattened bamboo can also be found on the bahareque walls of houses in southeastern Colombia and the Malocas roofs of the Kayapo Indians in Brazil.
While rooted in tradition, the pelupuh has traveled its journey, ultimately finding a place in modern architecture and bridging the gap between heritage and innovation. Some contemporary interpretations of flattened bamboo can be seen in the design of resorts, houses, and public spaces in Indonesia and across the globe, incorporating traditional wisdom into new designs and paying homage to its heritage.
Unraveling The Magnificence Of Pelupuh – Global Usage
The Pelupuh roofing system comprises interlaced layers of flattened bamboo, created by splitting bamboo poles lengthwise and flattening them into shingles. These layers are interspersed with a synthetic waterproofing membrane to prevent moisture intrusion.
The assembly of these components creates an impressive architectural element with the graceful interplay of bamboo parts. When used in a well-designed bamboo structure, this seamless integration enhances the roof shape and fosters a warm interior ambiance.
The Arc at Green School, one of the Ibuku design firm's bamboo masterpieces, uses pelupuh as one the main elements of the building. Serving as a tensioned skin that connects the structural bones of the bamboo arches, flattened bamboo is placed from the inside in a direction that holds in place the gridshell. This strengthens the overall stiffness of the structure. Looking at the exterior layer, the pattern of the bamboo shingles gives continuity and accentuates the sinuous curves of the roof.
The pelupuh technique has also been applied in a bamboo dome structure in India, designed by STUDIOARO. The flattened bamboo shingles were arranged longitudinally, pointing towards the dome's center. This creates a delightful natural pattern from the top that fits well with the curved lines of the roof.
Advantages and Disadvantages Of The Pelupuh Roofing System
Advantages of using Pelupuh as a roofing system:
- Most adaptable to organic shapes, the pelupuh roofing system offers unparalleled design flexibility, allowing for the creation of organic shapes and curvilinear rooflines.
- The Pelupuh roofing system offers a distinct advantage by eliminating the requirement for significant roof inclination. This alleviates the challenges faced by designers who often find themselves constrained to conform their project's ideal roof slope to fit within the specifications of conventional roof systems.
- Its maintenance is relatively simple and involves changing only the outer layer every 5 to 8 years. This is the time when it begins to deteriorate due to the action of rain and direct sunlight.
- Due to its lightness, ease of storage, and transport, it stands out as a good alternative for maximizing the logistics of projects in remote areas.
Disadvantages of using pelupuh as a roofing system:
- Like any other bamboo system, if not properly treated and maintained, pelupuh can be susceptible to wood-eating insects, such as bamboo mites and mealybugs, as well as decay caused by fungal growth.
- It's essential to be aware that the outer layer of the system may require replacement between 5 to 8 years, depending on its exposure to moisture, sunlight, extreme temperature variations and leaf litter from trees. Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial to assess the condition and ensure the longevity of pelupuh roofing.
Craftsmanship at Its Finest - a guide to make your own flatten bamboo shingle
Now, as you carefully consider your context and recognize the potential of pelupuh as a valuable technique for your bamboo projects, it's time to reveal the amazing beauty and skillful craftsmanship that goes into pelupuh production. From its symmetrical design to its rhythmic patterns, each flattened bamboo component is meticulously crafted to create a stunning visual spectacle.
Starting with a simple bamboo pole of Gigantochloa apus, Guadua angustifolia, or any other species with a thick culm wall, with the desired length, follow the steps below:
- Make an initial cut in the culm, dividing it in half lengthwise using an Ax or a Machete, and with a help of a shovel open the culm longitudinally.
- Make a series of cuts into the culm wall from the inside out using a hatchet, making sure to not pierce the entire culm wall. Instead, it should be cut just enough for the section to be flattened out.
- With the culm already flattened, use a long shovel or a machete to remove the diaphragms present in the nodes. This will make the inside part look smoother
- With the long shingles made, you can now resize them to the desired length and combine them in a 3 layer pattern. The first layer will be flattened bamboo, the second with an asphalt liner, and the last with the flattened bamboo again. Attach all the layers to the rafters using a nail gun.
It is crucial to note that a careful selection of mature bamboo culms, proper pole treatment, and good storage are critical safeguards that will ensure the material's durability and structural performance. If well maintained and the outer layer periodically replaced, the synthetic waterproof membrane system can last 20-25 years.
In an era of environmental consciousness, pelupuh stands tall as an embodiment of sustainable architecture and a ray of hope for a greener future. By harnessing the inherent qualities of bamboo, this roofing system offers a convincing alternative to reduce the negative environmental effect of building by utilizing a natural resource as a roofing system.
From its renewable and fast-growing nature to its carbon sequestration properties, a bamboo roofing system shows up as an alternative to conventional construction materials. Since it requires fewer resources and energy in its production, compared to other traditional alternatives, the use of pelupuh in construction can actively contribute to mitigating the impact of the construction and reduce the amount of waste normally found in construction sites.
The use of pelupuh not only offers aesthetic and technical advantages as a natural roof solution but also aligns with the principles of sustainability, promoting a harmonious coexistence between human needs and the natural world.
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Credits:
Cover Image of The Arc designed by IBUKU, Photographed by Tommaso Riva
Other Images courtesy of Bamboo U and Luiz Fellipe Machado
How long does a flattened bamboo roof last?
The outer layer of a pelupuh roof deteriorates from rain and direct sunlight and needs replacing every 5 to 8 years, depending on exposure to moisture, sun, temperature swings, and leaf litter. With regular inspections, good maintenance, and periodic outer-layer replacement, the synthetic waterproof membrane system can last 20 to 25 years.
What is pelupuh roofing?
Pelupuh is a traditional Southeast Asian roofing system made of interlaced layers of flattened bamboo shingles, created by splitting bamboo poles lengthwise and flattening them. The layers are interspersed with a synthetic waterproofing membrane to keep moisture out. It has protected homes and temples in Indonesia for centuries, spread to South America, and appears in modern buildings like The Arc at Green School in Bali.
How do you make flattened bamboo shingles?
Start with a thick-walled bamboo pole such as Gigantochloa apus or Guadua angustifolia, split it in half lengthwise with an ax or machete, and open it with a shovel. Make a series of cuts into the culm wall from the inside without piercing through, flatten the section, then remove the node diaphragms for a smoother interior. Resize the shingles and nail them to the rafters in three layers: flattened bamboo, an asphalt liner, then flattened bamboo again.
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