Residents have been
able to occupy a set of stylish, sustainable apartments at an exciting waterside
housing development ahead of schedule, thanks in part to the quick and easy
installation of Sika-Trocal’s high-performance waterproofing roof
system.
The Nash
Mills Wharf complex in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire is set by the banks of the
Grand Union Canal. It comprises six buildings containing one-to-two bedroom,
energy-efficient apartments and penthouses. To ensure clients Crest Nicholson
were able to market the development at the earliest opportunity, the main
contractors and architects required a “fast programme” of
works.
To
facilitate time-effective construction without compromising on quality, an
easy-to-install, proven watertight roofing system was required. Roofing
sub-contractors Seeco selected Sika-Trocal Type S. Ideal for
mechanically-fastened roofs in new build and refurbishment applications; it
carries full BBA accreditation with a 35-year lifespan.
It does not
require a separate fastening system for the thermal insulation as the
Sika-Trocal disc system utilises the same disc and fastener for securing the
insulation and the waterproofing membrane, thus improving speed of install. The
exposed nature of the roof system enables the ability for future alterations to
be easily undertaken.
With work at
Nash Mills Wharf beginning in May 2016, Seeco applied the Type S system to a
3,000m2 area consisting of flat and pitched roofs. The homogeneous
single-ply sheet membrane contains ultra violet stabilisers and fire retardants
and is highly resistant to ageing and industrial pollutants.
After
installation, the product requires no further surface treatments or maintenance
throughout its service life. The high elasticity of Sika-Trocal S allows it to
absorb all movements that occur on a roof without failing, and to reduce stress
on fasteners from the dynamic forces of wind loads.
To provide
stronger support in areas such as roof balconies and terracing where foot
traffic was potentially high, a sheet of waterproof Sika-Trocal SGmA was
installed, followed by a layer of Sika-Trocal S-Felt Type T polyester fleece for
additional protection. A multi-layer, synthetic roof waterproofing sheet based
on premium quality polyvinyl chloride (PVC), Sika-Trocal SGmA contains an inlay
of non-woven glass fibres.
As well as
offering quality, long-term protection against physical stresses, SGmA - if
covered with a minimum 50 mm depth of gravel ballast - is deemed to achieve an
FAA fire rating. Fully-installed, the system also offers a higher degree of
sound reduction, therefore enhancing occupants’ domestic
well-being.
Explaining
the benefits of the Sika-Trocal waterproofing system, Peter Hayes, Seeco
Director, commented: “I’ve worked with the contractor for 15 years and they take
on board our expertise in terms of product specification. Sika-Trocal Type S is
the premier roofing membrane on the market.
“The system
is so quick to use – essential in fulfilling the fast programme specification.
Its easy installation doesn’t detract from its quality. It’s my belief that this
system really is the best there is.”
Situated
close to the M25 and stood alongside one of Britain’s much-loved waterways, Nash
Mills Wharf is described as “the perfect blend between town and country living”.
Sika-Trocal’s Type S waterproofing system has ensured residents at three of the
development’s six blocks are already enjoying this idyllic way of
life.
