At the Solar Heat Energy Demonstrator in Port Talbot, we were contracted to deliver a package of essential roof maintenance works designed to protect the building’s structure, extend the lifespan of the roof, and ensure the site remained safe, watertight, and fully operational. With the facility playing a key role in advancing innovative solar heat technologies, maintaining the integrity of the building envelope was a priority.

The project involved a combination of cleaning, preparation, and specialist treatment across the roof and guttering systems. The scale of the site meant that the works needed to be carefully planned and executed to minimise disruption while ensuring every area received the thorough attention required for long‑term performance.

The first stage involved jet washing all roof coverings across an area of approximately 2,100m². This process is essential for removing moss, dirt, pollutants, and loose debris that naturally accumulate on metal roof sheets over time. A clean surface is critical for both inspection and subsequent treatment, as it ensures that any corrosion, defects, or vulnerable areas can be clearly identified and addressed.

Once the roof surface was fully cleaned, attention turned to the gutters. Around 205 linear metres of guttering were thoroughly cleared out to restore proper water flow and prevent blockages that can lead to leaks, ponding, and structural deterioration. Gutters are often overlooked until problems arise, yet they play a vital role in protecting the building envelope. By removing silt, vegetation, and accumulated debris, the team ensured that the drainage system could function effectively, reducing the risk of water ingress and extending the lifespan of the guttering.

With the roof and gutters prepared, the next phase focused on addressing cut edge corrosion, which is a common issue on metal roofs where the factory‑applied protective coating naturally breaks down at sheet edges, laps, and eaves. Left untreated, this corrosion can spread beneath the coating, leading to delamination, leaks, and costly structural damage. At the Solar Heat Energy Demonstrator, approximately 320 linear metres of cut edges, laps, and eaves were treated using the Liquasil Flexlap system, a specialist 15‑year cut edge corrosion treatment.

Flexlap is designed specifically for metal roof sheet edges, offering a flexible, durable, and long‑lasting solution that moves with the roof and provides robust protection against further deterioration. The system seals vulnerable areas, prevents moisture ingress, and halts the progression of corrosion. Its flexibility is particularly important on large industrial roofs, where thermal movement can place stress on rigid coatings. By applying this system, the team ensured that the treated areas would remain protected for many years, reducing the need for future repairs and safeguarding the building’s performance.

The completed works delivered a fully cleaned, prepared, and protected roof surface, with gutters restored to full functionality and all vulnerable cut edges treated with a high‑performance, long‑life system. This combination of cleaning, maintenance, and specialist treatment has significantly improved the condition of the building envelope, helping to prevent future issues and supporting the long‑term sustainability of the facility.

For a site dedicated to innovation in solar heat energy, maintaining the integrity of the building fabric is essential. By applying proven systems and expert workmanship, our team at Cladding Coatings, has contributed to ensuring that the Solar Heat Energy Demonstrator remains a reliable, weather‑resistant, and efficient facility for years to come.