Ark Kings Academy

Description:

Ark Kings Academy in Kings Norton, Birmingham has undergone a stunning transformation, with its old facilities being demolished to make way for a smart, modern new building containing a three-court sports hall, a dance studio and a superb set of climate-controlled classrooms which maximise natural light. The new-build academy, part of the government-funded Midlands Priority Schools Building Programme, will cater for 800 pupils from nursery to Year 11. For the structure’s main teaching block, the installation of a waterproof roof system offering optimum, long-term, weather-tight protection was absolutely critical. BriggsAmasco’s experience in delivering such schemes ensured the high-profile project was carried out to the highest specification.

Work on waterproofing the new academy’s 2,800m² main roof area began in July 2016. The complex project involved the installation of IKO Permatec Hot Melt Waterproofing System, a liquid-applied membrane designed to provide waterproof protection for a building’s lifetime. IKO Enertherm XPS insulation was then applied. Despite its lightweight handling ability, the rigid extruded polystyrene board has high compressive strength to enhance its thermal performance, particularly in inverted roofs. Ballast and paved finishes provided a water-resistant, aesthetically-pleasing final layer. The installation of four large barrel rooflights and four flat-glass rooflights helped create interior areas with natural light; facilitating the ideal learning environment for children whilst enhancing the building’s sustainability.

The roof’s waterproofing works were completed in December 2016, to the agreed timeframe and the client’s full satisfaction. This was in spite of BriggsAmasco’s installation teams having to complete a number of intricate roofing details during spells of inclement weather. Their diligence and experience ensured the project remained on track and the durable, high-performance waterproof system was delivered long before the new school’s official opening in early 2017.