Client: NHS Trust, Croydon University Hospital
Project: Flat Roof Refurbishment, London Wing
Roof Area: 3,000m²
Overview
Maguire Brothers were commissioned to carry out a flat roof refurbishment at a hospital in South London, as part of their ongoing work with NHS Trusts. This project presented unique challenges due to the location of the works, which took place directly above active operating theatres and life-critical infrastructure. It was essential to minimise disruption and ensure that hospital operations continued without any interruptions.
The Challenge
Hospital roofing projects are inherently complex, requiring a careful balance between construction and maintaining the hospital’s sensitive environments. For this project, it was crucial that the hospital remained fully operational throughout the works, with operating theatres and essential services continuing without any disruption.
The existing flat roof, covering approximately 3,000m², had reached the end of its serviceable life. In addition to addressing the waterproofing issues, the goal was to improve the building’s energy efficiency and the roof’s long-term durability.
Solution
To achieve these objectives, Maguire Brothers partnered with Danosa. Together, we opted for an overlay method of refurbishment. This approach allowed us to install a new roofing system over the existing structure, preserving the thermal benefits of the original roof while significantly enhancing its performance. In avoiding the removal of the existing roof coverings, we minimised disruption and reduced the environmental impact, significantly reducing the projects waste.
After carefully preparing the surface, priming and the installation of a VCL layer, we upgraded the insulation to exceed current building regulations, delivering substantial improvements in the building’s thermal efficiency. Various drainage channels and box gutters were also formed to optimise the roof’s drainage and the system was completed with a two-layer, high-performance POLYDAN® felt waterproofing system was applied, complete with a 25-year guarantee.
Due to the significant amount of mechanical and electrical (M&E) equipment on the roof, including air conditioning units and extensive ducting, various adaptations and alterations were needed to accommodate the new height of the roof. The Maguire team carefully isolated and managed this equipment during the works, ensuring the project was completed without disrupting hospital operations.
Project Execution
All works were carried out in strict accordance with the NFRC’s Safe2Torch campaign, which is designed to prevent fire risks during roofing projects. Throughout the process, we worked closely with the NHS Trust to ensure minimal disruption and to prioritise the safety and comfort of hospital staff and patients.
Outcome
The project was completed on time and within budget, leaving the NHS Trust with a more sustainable and energy-efficient building. The newly refurbished roof not only improves the building’s thermal performance but also provides long-term durability, ensuring that the hospital remains functional and efficient for years to come.
By partnering with Danosa, Maguire Brothers were able to deliver a high-quality roofing solution that met all of the NHS Trust’s needs under challenging conditions.
About Maguire Brothers
Maguire Brothers is a family-established commercial roofing contractor, founded in 1979, with over four decades of experience in the commercial roofing industry across London and the South of England. Their mission is to deliver professional, safe, and sustainable commercial roofing and refurbishment solutions, consistently exceeding their customers’ expectations.
