Portlethen Primary School

BriggsAmasco carried out a complete overhaul of a primary school roof to ensure pupils’ education continues in safety, comfort and without interruption.

The installation at Portlethen Primary School, Aberdeen required BriggsAmasco to replace the school’s existing 3,550m² roof coverings, which had reached the end of their serviceable life.

The primary replacement roof, installed by BriggsAmasco, was the Alumasc Euroroof Mono warm roof. Selected for its flame-free application in accordance with the NFRC Safe2Torch protocol, the high-performance system’s build-up included an Air and Vapour Control Layer (AVCL), 150mm PIR insulation, and a bonded single-layer Mono Cap Sheet. The refurbishment, as well as including a thermal upgrade to comply with current building regulations, encompassed replacement rooflights, fascia boards and parapet details.

For BriggsAmasco, completing the extensive roofing upgrade whilst the school remained operational presented an additional challenge. To overcome this task and minimise disruption, BriggsAmasco engaged with senior school staff, Aberdeenshire Council and Alumasc to implement a phased works programme that involved relocating classrooms to minimise disruption.

The refurbishment process began with the careful stripping back of the existing roofing membranes. With the substrate fully exposed, it was forensically prepared to ensure a strong and lasting bond with the new materials. The next step involved the installation of the AVCL, 150mm of PIR insulation and the final layer, a Mono Cap Sheet. To ensure a secure and durable finish, all termination points were hot air gun welded.

The Portlethen Primary School project was designed with a focus on sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint. The materials chosen were selected for their durability and long-term performance, ensuring that the roof would have a minimal environmental impact over its lifespan. The Euroroof Mono system’s BBA-approved 35-year lifespan meant that the roof would require no replacement for several decades, significantly reducing waste and the need for future resource use.

Despite the project’s design and logistical complexities, BriggsAmasco completed the school’s largescale roof refurbishment within the strict 16-week timeframe. The refurbishment provided affirmation of BriggsAmasco’s commitment to quality, safety, and sustainability. With its appointment of several apprentices on the project, the company also showcased its commitment to developing a new generation of skilled roofers. Such initiatives will sustain BriggsAmasco’s billing as one of the country’s leading roofing contractors for many years to come.