16/09/2014

A complete range of concrete repair, protection and anti-carbonation systems from Sika has been applied to three concrete tower blocks in Coventry.

Providing their 387 homes with long term weather protection and specified in three unique colours to retain the design and colour scheme of each individual building.

As part of a £7.1 million refurbishment of Meadow House, Falkner House and Longfield House tower blocks, Whitefriars Housing is revitalising the interiors and exterior of the buildings. To repair, protect and extend the life of the buildings’ facades, the specification for Whitefriars included Sika Monotop and Sikagard ElastoColor in three colours – Anthracite Grey, Stone Grey and Aqua 200 70 10.

With an impressive track record dating back more than 15 years, and conforming to the performance requirements of the EN standards, the high quality specification perfectly demonstrates Sika’s continued commitment to providing technically correct construction systems which deliver proven, reliable and long term performance.

Appointed to complete the application, specialist concrete repair contractor Sealability made primary repairs to the damaged concrete frame using Sika Monotop – the cementitious two-component system which consists of polymer modified mortars. Protecting the concrete exterior from future damage, it offers a good resistance to water and chloride penetration.

To provide an overall layer of protection and in order to match the existing surfaces, Sikagard ElastoColor-675W was applied to the concrete. Used to aesthetically enhance concrete substrates and particularly suited as a final protective coating for facades, the anti-carbonation treatment provides a high quality yet economical water-based, acrylic coating to protect against weathering and ageing.

"Sealability was appointed to carry out concrete repairs and anti-carbonation coatings to all three blocks. Utilising mast climbing platforms, we applied the Sika products to all three blocks at the same time – overcoming a number of challenges including control of falling debris, design and erection of complex shutters to follow existing lines of the building, and continuous client and resident liaison." Mick Moran, Contracts Director at Sealability

Sika‘s concrete repair and protection solutions are designed to rehabilitate and restore concrete surfaces back to their original quality. Concrete repair mortars, anti-corrosion coatings, corrosion inhibitors, reinforcement corrosion protectors and embedded galvanic anodes make up the extensive range that Sika offers – all backed up by a highly experienced technical team who offer expert specification advice and support.

With a challenging programme and demanding timescale, the successful application of Sika’s concrete repair and protection solutions at the three Coventry tower blocks highlight the company’s ability to deliver high performance and innovative solutions for renovation and refurbishment projects.