Kemper System’s cold-applied liquid waterproofing solution has been specified for a multi-million-pound extension at St John’s and St Elizabeth (HJE) Hospital in the St John’s Wood area of London.
The £35m new-build development has created six hi-tech theatres and a daycase suite, which is one of the most modern in the UK.
The extension also includes a new admissions lounge, imaging department, consultant rooms, and an expanded urgent care clinic.
A total of 9,060sq m of Kemper System’s Kemperol 2K-PUR solvent-free and odourless waterproofing membrane has been applied beneath the building’s green roof, onto a pedestrian trafficked walkway, the lower roof area, and a plant roof area.
The cold-applied solution was installed by London-based, Ridgewell Flat Roofing.
Contractors had a strict timescale to adhere to, meaning a quick and easy application solution was required to complete the job.
Because of the location of the extension, adjacent to an occupied hospital building, the solvent-free and odourless qualities of the Kemperol system meant minimum disruption at the hospital throughout the application process.
And no hot works were required as part of the project, further reducing potential health and safety risks and meaning no wait times were needed between applications of resin.
Once cured, the system forms a seamless, elastomeric waterproof membrane that cannot delaminate, is UV stable, and creates a sturdy bond directly to the substrate.
Kemper System’s Kemperol 2K-PUR solvent-free and odourless waterproofing membrane was selected as it creates minimum disruption to services and is quick and easy to apply
Additionally, the plant roof area had a number of complexities, with many ventilation outlets and air conditioning units, and because Kemper’s waterproofing system is roller applied, operatives could easily install the resin underneath the units and around the complex roof structure.
Ben Ridgewell, managing director of Ridgewell Flat Roofing, said: “The cold-applied solution was perfect for this project because it is so versatile. We could apply the system to each of the different roof and walkway areas with ease without having to switch roofing materials.
“Large expanses of sheeting material would not have been practical or safe on site, so a roller-applied liquid waterproofing solution was the best for this project.”
Victoria Ramwell, commercial manager at Kemper System, added: “We are delighted that our solution was specified for such a fantastic project, showcasing its versatility on both new-build and refurbishment works.
“Our Kemperol 2K-PUR solution is manufactured using an 80% castor oil formula derived from sustainable sources.
“The system has stood the test of time with a proven 20-year track record and continues to be one of the most-popular and sought-after systems for all sorts of projects.”
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital, which is in its 165th year, is an independent charitable health facility providing surgery, medical care, outpatient, and diagnostic services for children, young people, and adults.
All treatments that take place in the hospital help fund the onsite St John’s Hospice, which provides free palliative care to more than 4,500 people and their families each year from across seven boroughs.
The new building, which is opening in planned stages throughout 2022, follows a recent £3.5m ward refurbishment.