Case Study
High-Level Cladding Repairs & Façade Remediation – Newcastle
High-level cladding repairs in Newcastle using rope access. Removal of water-damaged timber, replacement backing and reinstatement of external metal cladding.
01 - Challenge
The problem.
Asset Access UK Ltd was tasked with investigating and repairing deteriorating external cladding and weatherproofing on a high-rise residential building in Newcastle. Initial inspection identified failed sealant, gaps around aluminium flashing joints and signs of water ingress around the window surrounds. Following removal of the affected cladding, extensive hidden damage was uncovered. The timber backing had suffered significant moisture-related deterioration, with sections showing decay, delamination and loss of integrity. The affected areas were located several storeys above ground level, making conventional access challenging. Specialist rope access techniques were used to reach the façade and carry out the necessary repairs.
02 - Solution
What we did.
Our rope access technicians accessed the affected façade and carefully removed the existing aluminium cladding to expose the damaged timber backing. The deteriorated timber was removed and replaced with new plywood backing, providing a sound base for reinstating the external cladding. Replacement aluminium cladding sections were then installed and mechanically secured, with attention given to the surrounding joints and window interfaces. To improve weather protection, Ultraflex liquid waterproofing was applied to the external window sill areas and adjoining junctions, addressing vulnerable points around the existing façade. All works were undertaken using industrial rope access techniques, allowing our team to complete the high-level repairs without the need for extensive scaffolding.
High-Level Façade Repairs and Waterproofing in Newcastle
Asset Access UK Ltd completed a programme of high-level cladding repairs and waterproofing works to a residential building in Newcastle, using industrial rope access techniques.
Investigating the Façade Defects
The existing aluminium cladding and window surrounds showed signs of deterioration, including gaps at flashing junctions and defective sealant.
Once the affected cladding was removed, extensive moisture damage was discovered behind the panels. The underlying timber backing had deteriorated significantly, with sections showing decay and delamination.
Removing and Replacing Damaged Materials
Our rope access technicians carefully removed the affected aluminium cladding to expose the damaged backing.
The deteriorated timber was removed and replaced with new plywood backing before the external aluminium cladding was reinstated and mechanically secured.
Window Sill Waterproofing
As part of the remedial works, Ultraflex liquid waterproofing was applied to the external window sill areas and adjoining junctions.
This provided an additional waterproofing treatment to vulnerable areas of the window surrounds.
Completing the Repairs Using Rope Access
All work was carried out at height using specialist rope access techniques, avoiding the need for extensive scaffolding.
The completed project included replacement timber backing, reinstated aluminium cladding, repaired external joints and Ultraflex waterproofing to the window sill areas.
This project demonstrates Asset Access UK Ltd’s capability to undertake high-level façade maintenance, cladding repairs and specialist waterproofing works on difficult-to-access buildings.
03 - Results
The outcome.
““the attention to detail, reporting and communication is great, can’t recommend them highly enough.””
04 - Photos
On the job.
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