Restoring a Worn Resin Bound Rooftop Surface in a London Tower

In a London tower, an old resin bound stone surface—installed as part of a permeable rooftop system—was showing signs of wear and age. Our team was called in to assess the surface and implement a solution to prolong its life without resorting to a complete replacement. Using a specialized chemical cleaning process, degreasing, and a polyurethane (PU) sealant application, we reinforced the surface and restored its functionality and durability.

The Problem

Over time, the rooftop resin bound surface began to lose its structural integrity due to several factors:

• Weathering:
  Continuous exposure to harsh weather conditions weakened the surface binder.
• Wear and Tear:
  Heavy usage of the rooftop led to the loosening of stones in certain areas.
• Aging Binder:
  The effectiveness of the original binder had diminished, reducing the strength and cohesiveness of the surface.

Although the surface still functioned as a permeable roofing solution, the deterioration posed a risk to its long-term performance.

Our Solution

To restore and enhance the surface, a comprehensive three-step process was implemented:

1. Chemical Cleaning and Degreasing

• Specialized Chemical Cleaning:
  The surface was cleaned using a specialized chemical solution designed to remove embedded dirt, debris, and contaminants.
• Degreasing:
  A thorough degreasing step ensured that the surface was completely prepared for the PU sealant, maximizing adhesion and performance.

2. PU Sealant Application

• Application of Polyurethane Sealant:
  A high-quality PU sealant was applied to serve as an additional binder. The sealant penetrated the top layer of the resin-bound surface, strengthening the bonds between the stones.
• Protective Barrier:
  The PU layer provided a protective coating that shields the surface from further weathering and wear.

3. Curing and Inspection

• Curing Process:
  The surface was allowed to cure thoroughly, ensuring optimal adhesion and durability.
• Inspection:
  A detailed inspection confirmed the uniform application of the sealant and the improved structural integrity of the surface.

Results

The restored rooftop resin bound surface now boasts:

• Enhanced Strength:
  The additional PU binder significantly reinforced the surface, reducing the risk of stone loosening and extending its lifespan.
• Improved Aesthetics:
  The cleaning and sealing process revitalized the appearance of the surface, making it look newer and more appealing.
• Long-Term Protection:
  The protective PU layer acts as a barrier against future weathering and daily wear, ensuring continued functionality as a permeable roofing solution.
• Cost Efficiency:
  By opting for restoration rather than full replacement, the property owner achieved excellent results while saving significantly on costs.

Conclusion

This project highlights how innovative restoration techniques can extend the life of resin bound surfaces even in challenging environments like rooftops. Our expertise in chemical cleaning, degreasing, and PU sealing ensures that surfaces remain durable, functional, and visually appealing for years to come. For property owners looking to maximize the value of their existing resin bound installations, our solutions offer an effective and economical option.