Client: The Owners Corporation
Contractor: ACM Building
Location: Rose Bay NSW
When it comes to maintaining the structural integrity and safety of a building, the team at Partridge Remedial plays a vital role. We were engaged on this project from initial inspections all the way through to providing Superintendent Services of the remediation works.
This remedial project, valued at approximately $1 million saw the restoration of twelve balconies of a block of apartments built circa 1960s. ACM Building was contracted to perform the work, which was completed within approximately 12 weeks.
During the initial inspections of the balcony waterproofing, our team deemed that the existing waterproofing membrane had likely reached the end of its service life. Failure of the waterproofing membrane can lead to concrete spalling of the concrete slab and water ingress to internal areas.
Above: Prior to remediation, showing the result of water ingress leading to plant growth.
We were responsible for the preparation of DBPA compliant balcony waterproofing designs. A sheet membrane was utilised due to the 20-year product warranty and the detailing capabilities of the system. Electronic Leak Detection (ELD) was utilised prior to tiling to ensure that the membrane was correctly detailed and installed. Our team provided superintendent services of the works, supervising the installation of the system throughout.
Above: Prior to remediation.
Non-compliant single skin masonry balustrades on the balconies posed a significant safety hazard. The project involved removing and replacing these structures with new aluminium framed frosted glass infill balustrades.
The works included the repair of concrete spalling (also referred to as concrete cancer) to the concrete slab structure. Concrete spalling occurs when steel reinforcement corrodes due to insufficient cover or water ingress issues. This can affect the structural integrity of the building. Partridge managed the concrete spalling repairs carried out as part of the balcony remediation works.
Above: After remediation, showing new balcony structures with frosted glass infill balustrades.
Most of the balcony doors at the property were original and had surpassed their service life reaching obsolescence. Furthermore, it is likely that the doors were non-compliant with current building codes and would not meet the required wind and water pressure requirements. We provided specifications for the new balcony doors to be installed. The installation of the new balcony doors enhanced the building aesthetics and formed an important part of the overall balcony waterproofing system.
Above: After remediation.
While a project like this might seem like a significant investment, it’s crucial to remember the long-term benefits of addressing building defects early on in order to prevent more extensive and expensive damage down the line, as well as ensuring the safety and well-being of occupants.
