Project Overview
Portlethen Primary School in Aberdeen is a nondenominational primary school serving its local catchment area, with a current roll of 287 pupils. The school is a significant part of the community, and has received several prestigious awards for promoting an inclusive and nurturing environment. Portlethen Primary was designated an Enhanced Provision School in 2017.
When the existing roof began to show signs of wear and water ingress, Alumasc Roofing carried out a full roof survey to identify defects and propose the most suitable solution.
Client Brief
The client’s strict zero-flame policy demanded a flame free roofing solution to eliminate the risk of fire. The works needed to be completed with minimal disruption to daily operations at the school, and the client needed the assurance of extensive support. The new roofing system also needed to deliver on budget, performance, ease of application, and long-term durability, whilst adhering to the NFRC’s Safe2Torch guidance.
Solution
Alumasc conducted a detailed condition survey, including a drone assessment, to evaluate the roof’s overall existing performance. The survey revealed extensive deterioration and saturation, confirming that the roof had reached the end of its serviceable life. A full performance specification was prepared, and an appropriate system design recommended.
Alumasc Roofing’s Registered Installer, Briggs Amasco, installed 2,200m² of Euroroof Mono, which met all of the project requirements. Euroroof Mono is an adhered, single layer SBS polymer modified bituminous membrane designed for flame free installation, maintaining the same high standards of quality and durability as torch applied systems. Euroroof Mono offers a BBA-certified lifespan in excess of 25 years (Certificate No. 24/7275). The adaptability of the system allows use across new build and refurbishment applications, with compatibility for warm or cold roof constructions. The system’s robust performance and ease of installation makes it particularly well suited for public sector projects where safety and minimal disruption are critical.
Multiple roof areas presented varying degrees of deterioration, each requiring different methods of preparation in order to guarantee a successful installation. Where existing surfaces could be preserved, they were thoroughly cleaned of all dirt, dust, and debris, and any blisters or buckles were cut and sealed before being overlaid with the new system. Areas of complete saturation were stripped back to the original deck, prior to a full Euroroof Mono system being installed.
Challenges
Euroroof Mono was safely installed to challenging areas with pitch gradients of 16°. Its cold applied installation avoids the risks associated with working with open flames on slopes. Hot air-welded terminations provide a durable, watertight finish, perfectly suited to Scotland’s coastal climate.
Despite the logistical complexities of working on an occupied site, and the additional challenge of Aberdeen’s wet weather, the roofing upgrade was completed within the strict 16-week timeframe. The system was supplied with a 25-year system warranty.
Long-standing Relationships
Alumasc enjoys a long-established working relationship with its registered installer Briggs Amasco, who have amassed extensive experience in the installation of Alumasc Roofing systems. After a successful tender process, Alumasc recommended Briggs Amasco as the installing contractor and collaborated with them to ensure consistent quality and compliance. Alumasc conducted regular site visits throughout the project and provided the client with detailed reports, offering additional quality assurance. The refurbishment was carried out in phases, allowing the school to remain operational, with classrooms temporarily relocated as work moved across the roof areas. This minimised disruption to teaching, and maintained a safe working environment.
By combining specification, comprehensive technical support, and trusted installation expertise, Alumasc and Briggs Amasco delivered a roofing solution that will safeguard the school’s future, whilst reinforcing its role at the heart of the community.
