Force® Waterproofing System
A superior range of high performance SBS polymer modified reinforced bitumen membranes.
Egglescliffe Primary School
Stockton-on-Tees
Axter Ltd was appointed to deliver a full roof refurbishment at Egglescliffe Primary School within the Spark Education Trust portfolio in Stockton-on-Tees. The project was driven by the need to replace an ageing roof system that had reached the end of its service life, with ongoing issues including standing water and water ingress across multiple areas.
- Client
- Sparks Education Trust
- Project
- Refurbishment
- Sector
- Education
- System categories
- Bitumen Waterproofing Systems
- Accredited installer
- Group Tegula Ltd
Project Overview
The existing metal deck structure was assessed and deemed suitable for retention; however, the waterproofing system required a complete strip and replacement. The works also needed to be carefully coordinated alongside the removal and reinstatement of rooftop solar PV equipment by others.
A key requirement of the project was to improve the thermal performance of the building, with a target U-value of 0.18 W/m²K, while delivering a robust, long-term waterproofing solution aligned with the Trust’s requirement for a 25-year guarantee system.
The project was delivered within a live school environment, with the main programme scheduled around the summer holiday period to minimise disruption. Initial site inspections commenced in March 2024, with works completed in February 2025.
Challenges
The project presented a number of practical and environmental challenges, requiring careful planning and coordination to provide successful delivery.
Operating within the North East of England, weather conditions posed a consistent risk, particularly during the strip and refurbishment phases where maintaining a watertight building was critical. The programme required precise sequencing to minimise exposure and protect the internal environment at all times.
Access and safety were also key considerations. The existing roof lacked adequate edge protection, requiring the installation of full scaffold systems to enable safe working conditions throughout the project.
In addition, the presence of existing solar PV equipment introduced complexity. Panels needed to be removed and reinstated by others within tight timeframes, requiring close coordination to ensure the new waterproofing system was not delayed or damaged during reinstallation.
Systems
The system was selected in line with Spark Education Trust’s requirement for a 25-year warranty, offering proven performance, robust waterproofing integrity and compatibility with warm roof build-ups. It also enabled the project to achieve the required thermal performance, supporting compliance with current Building Regulations.
Solutions
Axter delivered a fully coordinated refurbishment, beginning with detailed site surveys and technical assessments to confirm the suitability of the existing structure and inform the design approach.
Material planning played a critical role in maintaining programme efficiency. Orders were scheduled well in advance to align with the restricted installation window during the school holidays, ensuring no delays to progress on site.
During installation, an isolated issue with a membrane batch was identified, presenting a reduced aggregate finish. This was promptly addressed through the application of PMMA and additional aggregate to reinstate the required surface performance, demonstrating a proactive and responsive approach to quality assurance.
The Axter Approach
Axter delivered a fully coordinated refurbishment solution, beginning with detailed site surveys and technical assessments to confirm the suitability of the existing structure and inform the design approach.
The roof build-up was designed to improve drainage performance and eliminate standing water, while achieving the specified thermal target of 0.18 W/m²K. Careful sequencing ensured that exposed areas were kept to a minimum, maintaining watertight integrity throughout the programme despite challenging weather conditions.
Material planning played a critical role in maintaining programme efficiency. Orders were scheduled well in advance to align with the restricted installation window during the school holidays, ensuring no delays to progress on site.
During installation, an isolated issue with a membrane batch was identified, presenting a reduced aggregate finish. This was promptly addressed through the application of PMMA and additional aggregate to reinstate the required surface performance, demonstrating a proactive and responsive approach to quality assurance.
