Roofing works across 14 roofs on a live operational school
Project Delivery
The works saw two roofs requiring a complete strip and re-roofing, while the other 12 required insulation and vapour barrier installation. All roofs were installed with 120ml-180ml insulation, increasing UV resistance and the vapour barrier prevents any moisturefrom entering that could cause damage.
Scaffolding had to be installed before children started in September, which was achieved successfully by our scaffolding subcontractor.
Once term-time had begun, the team started work at 6:30am, to allow sufficient time to set up site before children and staff arrive at school.
During the project, Gilks, M&E subcontractor, conducted surveys on the eight air con units located on the roof. They discovered that the units were not fit for purpose, resulting in the replacement of three units and the removal of all eight. It was a requirement of the school for everyone working on site to have an enhanced DBS, prioritising the safety of children at the school.
Stakeholder Engagement
We have a great working relationship with Acivico as we have delivered numerous projects for Birmingham City Council in the past.
Our Senior Site Manager, liaised with the school’s maintenance officer and chief financial officer on a daily basis, to build a rapport with the school and to ensure open and honest communication.
Every week, the client’s clerk of works visited the site, and was escorted by our senior site manager who provided updates on the progress. Our roofing supplier checked the roofing materials were installed correctly every week, and inspected at different stages, ensuring the breathable membrane was glued down correctly, and ensuring the joints
were staggers to prevent water penetration.
Progress meetings were held every two weeks, including the council’s clerk of works, the council, Acivico and the school to discuss the progress and programme.
Challenges
As works were carried out in a live school environment, deliveries were made before school time or during breaks. A dedicated site member managed the gate to ensure delivery drivers did not arrive at an inconvenient time. They were asked to wait nearby until the next school break to make the delivery.
The school is nearby to Birmingham City Football Club, so the school allows supporters to use the car park on match days. This supports them to receive extra funding such as new materials and trips for the children. During the delivery of this project, we took over a small section of the car park, covering 22 parking spaces. On match days, we would move skip and other materials inside our compound to allow match-goers to use the car park.
Outcomes and Benefits
At the start of project commencement, the team decided to get ahead of programme by increasing labour front; this was helped by good weather. This allowed the project to be completed nearly three months ahead of schedule.
We have developed a great relationship with the school, which was strengthened by our communication and understanding of ensuring minimal disruption was caused.
The new roofs will now help the school save money on heating, due to improved insulation and has made the school more energy efficient, reducing carbon in the long-run.
Social Value
Over 12 months, Seddon have been volunteering and donating to help Let’s Feed Brum, a charity with a mission to make a lasting difference to those experiencing and at risk of homelessness. 72 Seddon volunteers dedicated 360 hours serving food and made a donation of £1,200.