Kookaburra Reader Limited, Corby

Established in 1890, Kookaburra Sport is a prominent global Australian family-owned business specialising in manufacturing sports equipment. Operating under the brand name Kookaburra, the company is renowned for its cricket and hockey products that are distributed to over 50 countries worldwide. With offices in the UK, Australia (Head Office), India, and New Zealand, Kookaburra predominantly relies on retailers and associations for product sales.

The company sought to revive the appearance and functionality of its Corby-based UK facilities, aiming to not only elevate the building’s aesthetic appeal but also ensure lasting structural durability. For this, Kookaburra engaged with us due to being expert applicators of specialised coatings in repair and refurbishment for commercial and industrial properties.

The project focused on refurbishing the external walls and roof, modernising the façade, and ensuring long-term resilience through high-quality systems and installations.

The comprehensive refurbishment involved multiple aspects, including metal wall cladding coatings, roof cladding restoration, and the replacement of roof elements.

Metal Wall Cladding Coating

To restore and protect the external walls of the property, we applied our specialised 15-year cladding coating system. This comprehensive solution covered all four elevations of the building’s external walls. Prior to the coating application, extensive preparation and painting were carried out to revitalise the overall appearance of the exterior. Additionally, we treated and refurbished the canopy located at the front elevation. Further improvements included the restoration and repainting of several external features, such as four fire doors, four entrance door frames, and two large roller shutter doors. These measures not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal of the property but also provided a durable protective layer to ensure the longevity of the structure.

Metal Roof Cladding Refurbishment

The roof refurbishment project aimed to significantly improve both safety and structural durability. A key aspect of this work was the installation of the advanced 3M™ DBI-SALA® RoofSafe Anchor and Cable System. This RoofSafe system offers continuous hands-free fall protection while also allowing safer access for maintenance and repairs. By reducing the need for temporary safety measures like scaffolding, this solution ensures a cost-effective approach to ongoing roof maintenance. Our work included the application of a specialised 15-year cladding coating system to protect and preserve the entirety of the metal roof. Furthermore, cut-edge corrosion treatment was completed to enhance the roof’s resilience against wear and tear. With these measures, future roofing tasks will be safer, more efficient, and better equipped to maintain the structural integrity of the building.

Rooflight Replacement and Structural Adjustments

To increase natural lighting within the property and ensure the structural security of the roof components, 128 existing rooflights were replaced with Class 3 GRP rooflights. These were specifically designed to maximise natural light inside the facility. Additionally, all roof fixings and fillers were replaced to ensure the watertight integrity of the structure. We also addressed outdated architectural features by removing 10 redundant roof vents, and the corresponding spaces were secured using profiled steel sheet sections and insulation to optimise safety and functionality.

New Membrane-Lined Gutter System

Waterlogging and drainage inefficiencies were addressed through the installation of a purpose-built membrane-lined steel gutter system. Prior to this, all existing gutters were thoroughly cleared of debris to ensure proper water flow. The system was designed for longevity, with heat-welded joints and stop-ends providing enhanced durability. The installation spanned an impressive 210 linear metres, effectively safeguarding the building against potential water damage while maintaining an efficient drainage system.

Roof Sheeting Replacement

One of the most substantial elements of the project involved the replacement of the main warehouse roof sheeting. The existing roof sheeting was dismantled entirely, allowing for the installation of 2,720 square metres of Plastisol-coated steel roof sheeting. The new sheeting, with a thickness of 0.7mm, was fitted with ridges, eaves, and verge flashings to ensure a complete, robust, and weather-tight finish. This extensive work has provided the structure with a durable roof that meets modern standards for safety, efficiency, and aesthetic appeal.

Our team adopted a step-by-step approach to ensure maximum efficiency and precision throughout the refurbishment process.

Comprehensive On-Site Inspection:
Before commencing work, Cladding Coatings performed a thorough survey, offering detailed recommendations and quotations to align with Kookaburra’s goals.

Safety First:
The installation team prioritised on-site safety, employing the RoofSafe fall arrest system and other industry-standard protocols to mitigate risks. Fragile roof elements and weather-induced hazards were handled with utmost professionalism.

Environmentally Friendly Solutions:
The coatings applied were VOC2010 compliant, water-based, and chosen for their minimal environmental impact without compromising on quality.

Minimal Disruption:
Cladding Coatings worked closely with Kookaburra to ensure that the facility remained functional during the work, minimising downtime.

Quality Systems and Warranties
To secure long-term value and peace of mind for Kookaburra, Cladding Coatings employed high-quality products and systems. Wall and roof cladding came with 15-year guarantees, ensuring durability and protection against weathering.

These warranties and systems underscore Cladding Coatings’ commitment to quality and reliability in commercial property refurbishments.

Enhanced Appearance:
Kookaburra’s Corby facility now boasts a modern, exterior that aligns with its brand’s professional image.

Improved Safety:
The RoofSafe system guarantees continued safety for maintenance staff, reducing risks during future roof work.

Better Functionality:
Roof and gutter installations have enhanced the building’s functionality, reducing leaks and ensuring effective drainage.

Sustainability:
The use of durable, energy-efficient materials contributes to minimised heat loss and a greener footprint.

Cost-efficiency:
By addressing cut-edge corrosion and replacing critical roof elements, Cladding Coatings extended the lifespan of the facility and significantly reduced long-term maintenance costs.

Cladding Coatings stood out as the ideal partner for Kookaburra due to their expertise in commercial property refurbishments. Key benefits of their service include:

• Comprehensive Solutions:
From external walls to in-depth roof and gutter systems, no detail was overlooked.

• Customised Service:
Their ability to adapt to client-specific needs made the project seamless.

• Warranty-Backed Assurance:
Long-term protection through industry-leading warranties added confidence in quality.

• Environmentally Conscious:
Utilising eco-friendly products, Cladding Coatings upheld Kookaburra’s commitment to sustainable practices.

The collaboration between Kookaburra Reader Limited and Cladding Coatings illustrates the powerful impact of quality refurbishment. By blending modern innovation with an uncompromising focus on safety and sustainability, Cladding Coatings transformed the Corby facility into a safe, durable, and visually striking commercial space.

Looking to refurbish your facility? Trust Cladding Coatings for tailored, professional solutions that blend safety, quality, and long-term value. Contact us to request a free site survey today!