Heckmondwike Grammar School, a respected educational institution in West Yorkshire, recently required significant refurbishment to its roof and wall cladding. The school’s management team recognised the importance of maintaining a safe, weatherproof, and visually appealing environment for staff and students, and they engaged Cladding Coatings to deliver a comprehensive solution. The project demanded careful planning, technical expertise, and a commitment to long‑term performance, with the aim of protecting the building fabric while enhancing its overall appearance.

The first stage of the project involved ensuring safe access to the roof areas. Cladding Coatings installed scaffold access towers and edge protection, allowing the team to carry out the works securely and efficiently. Safety is always a priority, particularly in a busy school environment, and these measures ensured that the refurbishment could be completed without disruption to daily operations or risk to those on site.

Once access was established, attention turned to the roof cladding. The existing metal roof surfaces had begun to show signs of wear, with areas of corrosion and weathering evident. To restore and protect these surfaces, Cladding Coatings applied their trusted 15‑year cladding coating system. This high‑performance solution was applied across all metal cladding roof areas, including the smaller section of roof that runs directly to the flat roof. The coating system not only revitalised the appearance of the roof but also provided a durable, weather‑resistant barrier designed to withstand the challenging British climate for many years to come.

During the roof works, the team also identified missing bolts and deteriorated foam fillers. These were replaced as part of the refurbishment process, ensuring the roof structure was secure and watertight. Such attention to detail is critical in preventing future issues, as even minor defects can lead to water ingress and costly damage if left unresolved.

An important element of the project was the installation of new guttering. The school required a robust system capable of managing rainwater effectively and protecting the building from potential leaks or overflow. Cladding Coatings installed Weatherfast gutter system, a premium product with a 25‑year life expectancy. This gutter system was fitted across the roof, with the exception of one section already completed in Plygene. The installation included two termination joints to ensure seamless integration with the existing system. By choosing Weatherfast, the school benefitted from a long‑lasting solution that reduces maintenance requirements and provides peace of mind for decades.

In addition to the roof, certain wall cladding elevations required attention. Two elevations were identified as needing refurbishment, while the pavement‑side elevations were deemed to be in good condition and excluded from the scope of works. Cladding Coatings applied their 15‑year cladding coating system to the affected elevations, restoring their appearance and protecting them against further deterioration. Following the dismantling of the scaffold, an additional pavement elevation was also treated, ensuring that all visible areas of the building were consistent in quality and finish.

The completed project delivered significant benefits to Heckmondwike Grammar School. The roof and wall cladding are now protected by industry‑leading coating systems, extending the life of the building fabric and reducing the need for costly future repairs. The installation of Weatherfast gutters provides a reliable rainwater management solution, safeguarding the school against leaks and water damage. The replacement of missing bolts and fillers has strengthened the roof structure, while the professional application of coatings has enhanced the overall aesthetic of the building.

From a practical perspective, the works were carried out with minimal disruption to the school’s operations. The use of scaffold access towers and edge protection ensured safety at all times.

The combination of safe working practices, durable products, and meticulous attention to detail resulted in a successful outcome that will serve the school community for many years.

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