Waterproofing system returns hospital roof to full health

Trafford General Hospital is regarded as the birthplace of the NHS, as it was the location of the very first patient to benefit from free and comprehensive medical treatment under the National Health Service. Originally opened in 1929, the building’s aged felt roof was suffering from wear and tear and needed a long term, reliable replacement.

When the restaurant roof at Trafford General Hospital began to suffer water ingress, a rapid high quality roofing repair system was needed. With the strict requirement that the restaurant and kitchen remain operational throughout, the hospital turned to the innovative, cold-applied waterproofing formula with fast application.

It was not just the restaurant roof that was in a state of dis-repair, the crèche roof sheltering the children also employed the waterproofing system due to its qualities.

The ageing roof was in generally poor condition and starting to show signs of severe wear and tear. Despite undergoing several smaller repairs over a number of years, water ingress still remained the largest problem. So the hospital looked for a long-term, comprehensive solution, for which the waterproof roofing membrane proved ideal.

To provide a cost-effective waterproofing solution, whilst offering convenience, safety and long-term performance a product with a 15 year guarantee was chosen. The economical and durable acrylic waterproofing system was applied to the existing felt rooftop, to deliver a seamless solution at a fraction of the time and cost of alternative refurbishment and replacement systems.

As occupants remained in the building during the application, it was crucial that work was carried out quickly and with minimal disruption. Again, the waterproofing system proved ideal, with a simple application that made the required Health and Safety COSHH Assessments as straightforward as possible.

Waterproofing systems remain tried and trusted for nearly two decades and with rocketing insurance premiums and site restrictions banning heat at roof level, Cold applied System 15 was installed efficiently, without the use of naked flame or molten materials at roof level – guaranteeing excellent value for money.

The work above the restaurant was carried out quickly and with very little disturbance to the kitchen and restaurant below. To ensure minimal disruption to the kitchen service, supply fans were shut down during various stages of the application process to prevent fumes entering through the air-conditioning units.

At the heart of the system is a tough acrylic resin that dries to a durable elastic finish. Because it’s totally seamless, vulnerable areas such as up stands and vent outlets receive the same high level of waterproofing as the rest of the roof.

It gives immediate, tough, durable waterproof protection, stopping leaks and encapsulating the entire roof.

The innovative solution delivered an attractive and seamless waterproof finish that now offers the hospital’s staff, patients and visitors year-round protection from the elements.

Completed in less than two weeks, including the erection and dismantling of all access scaffolding, the application has provided a safe, reliable waterproof roofing solution that will protect the building’s occupants for many years to come.