The Milton Keynes Xscape is an iconic building that sits proudly within the local environment. Our client required us to put a cost, programme and access strategy together to sensitively restore the organic-stained metal roof along with the external façade.
Our solution was to visit the site and use our equipment and specialist façade steam-cleaning solutions to treat and clean the external metal roof.
To access the roof, we used our 29m access lorry, combined with our specialist testing van, which has an in-built unit to create “super-heated water”. The organic staining on the roof is a soft, flexible surface soiling. Under BS 8221-1:2012: Code of Practice for Cleaning Building, it’s imperative that the correct façade and building cleaning restoration methods are matched to the correct soiling type.
Steam is an ideal solution and cleaning methodology to sensitively clean and remove organic matter. The steam is produced by our specialist mobile unit, which is designed to work at low water flow rates, ie, 3-4 litres a minute, which means the water running through the system can be heated to 150 degrees. Unlike other pressure washing units, this system is perfect to clean and restore a wide variety of materials such as stone, brick, render, concrete, or architectural cladding systems.
Prior to the testing, we provided a full brief to the client about the methods we planned to use, the benefits of the process and the results that we could expect from the investigation. It’s paramount that the clients understand not only what we are trying to achieve, but are supported through the process, which enables them to understand why we are doing things the way we are and how best practice solutions will deliver a far greater longer-term solution for them.
When undertaking the testing on the roof and removing the organic matter, we also tested the application of a water-based biocide. The biocide was applied and has now been allowed to naturally weather to test the effectiveness of such a product for the client, providing them with a treatment and cleaning solution that ultimately provides a longer-performing product for the client. We feel this treatment will also be very feasible for future management of the roof and is a much more cost-effective method of prolonging the condition of the roof rather than expensive reactive systems. The final results of the façade cleaning test trials were extremely successful for the client, with the project being planned for the spring/summer of 2017.
Façade cleaning test trials, create clarity, cost and programme certainty for the client, building owner/manager. It enables them to visualise the real benefits of façade cleaning, how the building may look on completion, but understand how the costs are built up through effective demonstration. Façade cleaning test trials create an honest and open platform to help clients achieve their building restoration needs.
