Dulux Trade Ultimate Opaque has helped to restore the Blyth Academy building in Northumberland back to its former glory.
The coeducational secondary school and sixth form with academy status has a predominantly wooden cladded exterior, but the timber had not been protected since being built in 2002, resulting in a dilapidated grey and black appearance.
The tired exterior not only detracted from the school itself but also blemished the view from the surrounding houses.
Blyth-based painting contractor F Southern was tasked with applying an exterior woodstain that would renew the façade and protect it for at least ten years. Commercial Manager Paul Norvell recommended Dulux Trade Ultimate Opaque in Almond, to achieve a beautiful finish.
Formulated to enhance and protect smooth exterior joinery and cladding, the semi-transparent woodstain gave the cladding a luxurious depth of colour, whilst still showing off the natural wood grain.
“In terms of aesthetics and long term protection Dulux Trade Ultimate Opaque was able to deliver on all fronts,” said Paul. “We were all delighted with the finished result. In fact, originally only the front of the building was due to be stained – but the Academy was so impressed with the transformation, it requested the rear of the building be coated too.”
Alan Watkins, Business Development Manager at Akzo Nobel, advised on the specification. He said: “Nothing beats the beauty of natural wood, making it the first choice material for many architects and designers. However, if not maintained properly, timber will fade and discolour. The Blyth Academy’s exterior cladding had lost its original rich aesthetic and so we were called upon to advise on a solution - Dulux Trade Ultimate Opaque provided the answer.”
Suitable for hard and soft woods, Ultimate Opaque has excellent water repellence qualities. Its highly flexible finish resists cracking, flaking and peeling, protecting exterior joinery from extreme weather for up to 10 years.
Colin Hunter, Site Manager at Blyth Academy concluded: “I am very happy with the results and extremely pleased with the working relationship that existed between Dulux Trade, F Southern and the Academy during the whole process.
“The work has improved the building’s appearance dramatically, not just for the staff and children who visit every day, but also the local residents who feel it has improved the view from their houses.”