Preserving History and Protecting the Future |
Brighouse High School, nestled in West Yorkshire, boasts over a century of educational heritage. Originally opened in 1910 as the Brighouse & District Girls Secondary School, the site now educates approximately 1,400 students aged 11-18. However, the historic building recently faced pressing challenges, with significant roof problems posing risks to its structure, academic staff, and students.
Water ingress into classrooms, damage to internal finishes, and potential harm from live electrics presented a critical threat. Responding urgently, the school’s management engaged Bauder to inspect and assess the roof’s condition. This case study showcases the meticulous survey process, the benefits of moisture mapping, and the critical steps taken to restore the roof and protect the school’s legacy. |
Understanding the Problem
The Brighouse High School roof spans 344m² and had long been affected by advanced deterioration. The school sought Bauder’s expertise to identify the roof’s construction, condition, thermal performance, |
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and the scope of work required to make it weathertight. The information was vital to support a future Condition Improvement Fund (CIF) bid. |
The Survey Process
Bauder’s approach included a comprehensive flat roof survey encompassing core sampling and moisture mapping. Core samples help to determine the roof's construction above the deck and identify the presence of moisture in the core sample. By taking multiple samples, Bauder verified consistency across the surveyed areas, reinforcing the integrity of their findings.
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To further substantiate the CIF condition report, Bauder employed a moisture mapping survey using a Troxler gauge. This scientific method pinpointed the exact location and extent of moisture in the insulation and waterproofing layers. The data was meticulously plotted into a visual report, eliminating guesswork and offering objective clarity. The survey |
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confirmed that large sections of the roof contained wet insulation, rendering the existing waterproofing system unsalvageable. Wet insulation significantly reduces thermal performance, leading to heat loss and higher energy bills. |
The Solution
Bauder determined that a complete roof replacement was necessary. The deteriorated system was replaced with the Bauder Total Roof System (BTRS), a high-performance bituminous waterproofing solution designed for longevity and resilience. This system |
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offers a service life exceeding 35 years, backed by BBA Certificate 10/4744. |
A Legacy Secured
The project at Brighouse High School highlights the importance of proactive roof maintenance for heritage buildings. Through advanced surveying techniques and robust solutions, Bauder helped the school safeguard its infrastructure while enhancing energy efficiency and reducing operational costs. |
If your building is experiencing flat roof challenges and you want to proactively assess roof conditions, Bauder offers courtesy moisture-detection surveys. Contact Bauder on 01473 257671 or visit www.bauder.co.uk for more information. Let Bauder help protect your school’s infrastructure and legacy. |
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