Main contractor: Concrete Repairs Ltd (CRL)
Size: 600 sq. m
Sector: Heritage

Kemper System Products: Kemperol 2K-PUR

Kemper System has provided a durable waterproofing system for an historic, cantilevered sports stand.

The Challenge

The Gala Fairydean Rovers FC’s Netherdale Stand in Galashiels, Scotland, needed essential repairs works.

Originally designed by renowned architect, Peter Womersley, the stand first opened in 1965. It was an early example of shuttered concrete being used to create a gravity-defying cantilevered canopy.

A £1.45m upgrade was agreed to protect the Category A listed building and its much-loved heritage. As part of the repair works, a robust waterproofing system was needed for the roof area and several verticals which form part of the stand’s unusual design.

The Solution

Kemper System’s Kemperol 2K-PUR was selected for the project. This saw Concrete Repairs Ltd (CRL), work in close consultation with Kemper System to enhance the waterproofing performance by addressing leaks and damage to the existing concrete substrate.

Kemperol 2K-PUR is the only cold liquid-applied wet-on-wet waterproofing product in the UK, which is sustainably sourced, solvent-free and completely odourless.

Approved contractors applied the solution directly onto the concrete substrate, using a reinforcement fleece in-between applications to ensure consistency.

Manufactured using an 80 per cent castor-oil formula derived from sustainable sources, Kemper’s 2K-PUR liquid system bonds directly to the substrate forming a seamless, elastomeric waterproof membrane that cannot delaminate and is UV stable.

The six-month programme of works at the 500-capacity stand, also included restoring some of its original features and fixing damage caused by spalling as well as reinforcing the roof’s substrate and restoring concrete across the entire stand.

As well as cleaning and repairing all the concrete, the CRL team demolished and rebuilt brick walls, installed new glazing and ventilation, and refurbished the turnstiles to their original state.

The Outcome

Despite the complexity of the repair works due to the structure’s design, the versatility and quality of Kemperol 2K-PUR means the club can have peace of mind hosting many more matches for years to come.

Tony Parsons, senior site manager at CRL said:

“This was quite an advanced design for 1960s concrete architecture. The refurbishment project presented many challenges, so a lot of thought had to go into the right waterproofing solution – especially thinking about the detailing up the verticals on the roof, and material access to site.

“Kemperol 2K-PUR solution was easy and quick to apply, with minimal materials required on site, and fully met the durability requirements ensuring a sustainable solution.”