Location: Widney Junior School
Project Works: Replacement roof works
Project Value: £67,000
Project Duration: July 2017 – September 2017
Local Authorities involved: Solihull MBC
Lead Partner: GRAHAM Facilities Management
Project Description:
As part of Solihull Council’s education works programme, it was identified that Widney Junior School required remedial roof work on three of their school buildings. The Partnership were able to use their in-house experts to agree the required works.
"We’ve been delighted with the renovation of the school roofs. This project was extremely well managed and co-ordinated by the partnership and each hurdle was overcome in an effortless way, communication was excellent throughout. I would recommend The Partnership to any school for renovation projects"
Leon Chamberlain, Head Teacher of Widney Junior School
Project Challenges & Solutions
A Structural Engineer carried out the survey on the roofs. This identified a number of challenges including:
- Two of the roofs were modular buildings
- The current roof structure would not bear any additional weight for insulation
- Protected species were on site
- Adverse weather conditions
An innovative solution was needed to tackle the weight bearing issue. A liquid roofing system was selected ensuring additional roof loads were not imposed, this system also offered the school the additional benefit of having a 20 year insurance backed guarantee on completion.
In terms of protected species, Badgers had burrowed beneath the modular classrooms. We liaised with specialists to ensure the Badgers remained safe during the work and to make sure the foundations were not adversely affected. While works were being completed the teams had to work carefully around the badgers and their borrows as they are protected by law.
One of the rooms was an ICT suite so extra care had to be taken to ensure no rainwater penetration to the classroom during a particularly wet summer.
The works started at the beginning of the summer holidays 2017 ensuring there was no disruption to the schools daily routine. Works were completed on time and within budget.