How do roof profiles over 23 meters long get up the mountain? A construction project in Lenk in the Simmental is an impressive example of modern construction at alpine altitudes. At 2,920 metres above sea level, the project shows how high-performance aluminium roof systems can survive in the long term even under extreme weather conditions.
The regionally based tinsmith Künzi AG relied on the proven BEMO standing seam profile VF65-375 made of 1.0 mm natural bright aluminium for the roof construction. A total of around 620 square metres of roof area was covered with the durable and low-maintenance standing seam system. The material impressed with its high strength and low dead weight at the same time – a decisive advantage at this altitude.
Helicopter transport to 2,920 meters
The profile lengths of over 23 meters made material transport a logistical task of a special kind. Conventional road transport was not possible. Instead, the BEMO profiles were flown directly to the construction site by helicopter. Precise preparation and close coordination between production, logistics and assembly were essential to ensure that the long aluminium profiles arrived undamaged and precisely fitting on site.
Construction for extreme snow loads
At the height of the mountain station, enormous snow loads of up to 1,000 kg/m² are at work.The roof system was designed accordingly statically in order to ensure long-term functional reliability even in the event of uneven snow accumulation – so-called snow bag formation.
The BEMO standing seam system offers optimal conditions for this. Due to the concealed fastening and the flexible linear expansion of the aluminium, the roof cladding remains stress-free even with strong temperature fluctuations. The profiled geometry of the VF65-375 also ensures high intrinsic stability and tightness even under dynamic wind loads.
First winter – successful endurance test
Already in the first winter after completion, the system proved itself under real extreme conditions. Despite massive snowfall and strong winds, the aluminium roof remained tight, stable and visually unchanged. The combination of high-quality material, precise planning and precision craftsmanship was convincing all along the line.
The project in Lenk demonstrates how modern lightweight metal construction systems can also be used under extreme alpine conditions. The combination of static performance, durable material quality and careful installation makes the roof a convincing example of sustainable construction at great heights.
