Starcoat® PMMA Waterproofing System
A flame free and rapid cure, two component polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) resin waterproofing system.
10 The Harbourside, Canon Way
Bristol
Axter Ltd played a key role in the fire safety remediation of balcony waterproofing at Bristol Harbourside, a waterfront residential development comprising the Waverley and Balmoral Buildings.
- Client
- Red Construction
- Project
- Refurbishment
- Sector
- Residential
- System categories
- Cold Liquid Waterproofing Systems
- Accredited installer
- Roofworx (UK) Ltd
Project Overview
Originally constructed in 2005, the scheme includes 104 apartments, all of which remained fully occupied throughout the programme.
Commissioned by RED Construction and designed by GCP Architects, the project followed PAS 9980 fire risk assessments that identified combustible balcony finishes requiring removal and replacement. Axter supplied its STARCOAT PMMA cold-applied liquid waterproofing system, delivering a fully flame-free system that enabled safe installation while residents remained in situ. Roofing contractor Roofworx carried out the works across approximately 500m² of balconies, coordinating closely with the wider recladding programme and maintaining existing balustrades to ensure occupant safety.
Challenges
The project presented a complex refurbishment scenario, combining stringent fire safety requirements with the constraints of a live, city-centre residential environment. Each balcony featured unique layouts, thresholds and drainage arrangements, requiring bespoke detailing rather than a standardised approach.
All combustible materials identified through PAS 9980 assessments had to be removed without compromising the structural slab or resident safety. Traditional hot-applied systems were ruled out due to unacceptable fire risk, emphasising the need for a solution that was both flame-free and rapidly installable. Restricted access, limited storage and the need to maintain uninterrupted resident access further increased the logistical challenges.
The Solution
Axter worked collaboratively with the design team and contractor to develop a robust, fire-compliant system. Fully reinforced and flame-free, STARCOAT was ideally suited to the occupied nature of the project, with rapid curing properties allowing phased installation and swift return of balconies to service.
Existing non-fire-rated finishes and insulation were carefully removed and replaced with non-combustible mineral wool insulation to meet PAS 9980 requirements. STARCOAT PMMA was applied in two reinforced layers with full fleece reinforcement, accommodating movement and complex interface detailing at balustrades, door thresholds and drainage points. A quartz-sand broadcast and clear seal finish provided a durable, anti-slip surface suitable for residential use.
The Axter Approach
Careful sequencing and close coordination with RED Construction, GCP Architects and Roofworx ensured seamless integration with ongoing recladding works. Materials were delivered in controlled batches to suit the constrained city-centre location, minimising disruption to residents and other trades.
Axter’s quality assurance team carried out regular site inspections throughout the project, verifying surface preparation, reinforcement placement, layer thicknesses and final finishes. This rigorous approach ensured consistent workmanship, compliance with specification requirements and a high-quality result.
The Bristol Harbourside project was delivered on programme and within budget, providing a durable, waterproofing system within a fully occupied residential environment. The completed works enhance resident safety, improve long-term performance and reduce future maintenance requirements.
The project is backed by an Axter Goldshield guarantee covering design, materials and workmanship, demonstrating Axter’s expertise in delivering complex refurbishment solutions where fire safety, quality and occupant wellbeing are paramount.
