Solving Roofing Problems in Romania
M&J received a request from Canada House, London (the HQ for the Canadian Embassies in Europe and Africa), to inspect a problem they had on their Embassy in Bucharest. Working jointly with European product supply specialist Alumasc, M&J produced a specification and competitive bid, to Keegans (the Canadian Govt’s appointed Contract Administrator). With the harsh Romanian winter drawing in, tough decisions had to be made; wait until Spring next year, which meant putting up with leaks and condensation through another winter, or get the job done quick and now. Already in October, M&J persuaded Canada House, that we could complete this complex project within 3 weeks, just before it was predicted to be too cold and wet.
M&J logistical skills were tested. Unforeseen obstacles were in our way, such as no lorries allowed into Bucharest between 6.30am and 7.30pm. No noisy work on the Embassy during normal office hours. With over 35 tonnes of concrete to break out and remove before we could expose the original roof covering, this meant getting to work fast at weekends and evenings. Once exposed M&J discovered the original covering had been laid with no insulation and as a result of interstitial condensation the roof screed was saturated. Time was against us and if we stripped the screed what might we find under that. A quick call to RAM Consultancy, expert roofing consultants, established that if we could get a membrane bonded and waterproof to the screed, then RAM could de-water it and dry it out. By adding a mechanical fixed base sheet, M&J were able to torch apply the Alumasc vapour barrier down and provide a waterproof seal to enable dewatering to commence. While all this was going on, a bespoke tapered insulation system was designed and shipped out. Other challenges were presented, including redesign of the lightning conductor system, 12 new bespoke cable and pipe risers and 10 new window cleaning cradle fixing points.
Whilst the overall roof surface area was just over 500m2, it was still a challenge in this time frame, which had to allow for scaffold erection and striking of this 6 storey building. With 4 hours to spare the project was successfully completed and passed off for warranty. Jamie Carter, Director at Keegans reported “…we were aware of M&Js high reputation, but even with that we remained concerned that they could meet the strict client deadlines. The quality of work is excellent and Canada House were very pleased with the job and the way the project was delivered, so well done to all at M&J..”