The roofs at King George Hospital had become in urgent need of repair and posed a risk for leaks. Serving over 750,000 patients as part of the Barking, Havering and Redbridge NHS Trust, it was critical for this to be addressed. Waterproofing expert, Langley Waterproofing Systems Ltd worked closely with the Estates and Facilities Department, recommending a solution that was durable and cost-effective whilst overcoming the challenges of working on a busy, operational hospital site.
Following a successful tender process, Langley’s fully self-adhesive SA-20 Flame Free System was specified. Part of the Langley Safe2Torch commitment, this reinforced bituminous membrane system is ideal for projects where a flame-free application is required. No gas torches are required for any of the component layers, which can be installed entirely with self-adhesive technology or heat activated with a flameless heat gun. What’s more, the revolutionary product carries a 20-year independently insurance-backed guarantee for design, materials and workmanship – particularly pertinent where budgets are stretched and scrutinised.
Before refurbishment
Work at King George Hospital was carried out by Langley’s Approved Contractor, Inspire Contract Services Ltd. Managing Director, Gary Slawson was involved throughout the project. He commented: “It was a pleasure to work with Langley on this project to help rejuvenate the appearance and performance of an important local hospital. A significant part of the works was ensuring minimal disruption occurred at the active hospital. Therefore, a solution that was quick and simple to install was critical to meet the client’s programme deadline, so we worked with Langley to recommend a system that could meet this, as well as every other aspect of the brief.
Speaking on the project, Regional Manager at Langley Waterproofing Systems, Paul Connolly commented: “Health and safety is a key priority especially on this project due to working in close proximity to hospital staff, patients and visitors, so much of this project hinged on an ability to provide a system that could be installed without the need for flame application. Fortunately, our self-adhesive bituminous membrane system is flame free and doesn’t require a hot works license to use.”
Speaking on the decision to choose Langley, Steve Last, Director of Estates and Facilities at King George Hospital commented: “In the current NHS climate, there is limited capital funding available, so repairs need to be reliable, long-term and cost-effective. We considered a number of providers, but Langley stood out with a solution that met the brief in all aspects and more. The tender initially focussed on just one roof, but we were so impressed with the solution and approach, that we extended Langley’s scope across the rest of the hospital’s roofs. We are pleased to report that the installation went very smoothly and has made the building watertight, which has made a significant impact in providing better working conditions for our staff and a comfortable and safe environment for our patients and visitors.”
Paul Connolly concludes: “In October 2019 the government pledged to create funds that would make the NHS estate fit for the future. For trusts that are afforded grants or receive funding, there is a need for hospital and healthcare facilities to find repair and refurbishment solutions that provide high-quality results, with minimal disruption. By working closely with a waterproofing expert such as Langley, hospitals can be sure they are making a sound investment and their asset guaranteed for years to come.”
To book a Langley roof condition survey, please call Cassey Smith, Business Development Co-ordinator on 01327 704778 or email her on [email protected]
Or, for more information about Langley’s services register to download their corporate brochure here, www.langley.co.uk/technical-downloads/
