First Bus Depot
Oldham
The Client
We are all familiar with the brand First Bus and their service, and with several depots throughout the UK, the company called upon Starfish Construction Group to assist with one particular building. The property acts as a bus servicing and storage area, and the bus depot has a total area of over 18,000 m2, regularly servicing 100’s of vehicles.
The Project
Initially, the client was looking to strip the aged single-ply waterproofing membrane and install a new fully built-up system with a PVC single-ply waterproofing layer. We proposed two non-destructive surveys, firstly an Electronic Leak Detection survey to highlight the number and location of roof defects. Secondly, we carried out a moisture scan of the roof areas using our Tramex moisture scanning equipment, which identifies missing, wet or defective insulation.
These survey assessments proved to be extremely valuable in providing the facts for the client to make informed decisions for the project.
- Roof problems identification through Electronic Leak Detection Survey
- Moisture Scan Survey provided to highlight wet or defective insulation areas
- High performance built-up felt system with a non-slip finish
- Roof insulation levels were increased to current building regulations
- Cost-effective overlay system applied
- 25-year Single Point Warranty Supplied
- All works completed on time, to agreed budget and with minimal disruption
£150,000
Value
8 Weeks
Duration
1,200 m2
Area
Challenges and Solutions
On completion of the Electronic Leak Detection and moisture mapping surveys, we confirmed the client’s fears that the single-ply waterproofing system was beyond a patch repair approach. We also advised our client not to use a Single-Ply layer, where foot traffic without a walkway system occurs. The moisture scan highlighted around 40% of the original insulation was wet or damp, and removal was required. However, with us identifying 60% suitable for overlay, we provided a cost-saving over a full-scale replacement.
Our surveys also highlighted that regular foot traffic defects were causing punctures. Throughout the project, we liaised with the on-site management and tenants to ensure a solution with minimal disruption and allow businesses to continue with day-to-day operations.
Outcome
We provided a high performance built-up felt system with a non-slip finish. This system was over five times thicker than the original single-ply proposal. We also increased the roof insulation to current building regulations and replaced the roof lights, delivering more natural light into the office areas. Our work addressed all previous roof leaks, delivered an enhanced thermal performance and was completed on time, on budget and provided a 25-year single point warranty.
