North Wales school chooses Gemini Roofing & Cladding to replace their aging asbestos roof

Recently, we have undertaken work for Llewellyn School, located in Colwin Bay, North Wales.

Parents and staff at a school in North Wales are breathing a sigh of relief now that the asbestos roof has been replaced. The old roof was not only unsightly, it was in a poor state or repair and provided very little insulation from noise and weather. The new roof is much more efficient at keeping the classrooms insulated, making it a much more pleasant place to learn.

As the principal contractor, Gemini Roofing were responsible for all aspects of the project including hiring and managing of the sub-contractors.  This included suppliers, workers and scaffolding companies.

The Issue

Poorly insulated asbestos roof

The Solution

Modern Garland Roof

The solution for this problem was to remove and dispose of the old roof, and replace it with a new modern roof that would not only be able to regulate temperature more efficiently and reduce noise pollution but also one that portrayed the modern image that was more in line with the school. 

After a comprehensive site survey to inspect the roof it was quickly identified by the team at Gemini Roofing that a Garlands R-Met Loc Metal Roofing System would be the best option for the school.

The Benefits

Weatherproof and insulated roof with a manufacturers warranty

There are numerous benefits to new Garlands R-Mer Loc roof system.  This roof is watertight, insulated to a high standard, provides warmth and is also better for the aesthetic appeal of the school. 

The roof also comes with a 40 year manufacturers warranty.  But only if the roof is signed off by the manufacturer.  For this to happen the roofing system must be installed to the highest standard.  Fortunately this was not a issue for the team at Gemini who have over 20 years of experience of installing roofing solutions.  The work was inspected at various stages by Garland and on completion was signed off.  As such the school now benefits from a 40 year manufactures guaranty for their new roof.

Additionally new roof lights were also installed allow more natural light to enter the building.  Roof or sky lights are often the source of leaks.  So replacing the old sky lights greatly reduces the risk of rain leaking in to the building.  You can read more about our roof and sky lights here.

The Procurement and Assessment Process

Why Gemini Roofing and Cladding were Selected for the Roof Replacement

We were commissioned to replace the roof by the local authority. There was a rigorous tendering process. To acquire the contract, we ensured the following took place: 

• Our specialists conducted a full site survey of the school and surrounding area where applicable. (You can get more information on our free roofing surveys here)

• Once the survey was conducted we then assessed architect drawings to ensure the effectiveness of the project. 

• We engaged with multiple roofing systems manufacturers to identify the best product for the job.

• Once the best roofing system was selected we worked with the manufacturer to ensure the optimal design for the roof configuration. 

• We conducted a risk assessment, making sure to remain fully compliant with the latest Health and Safety legislation and guidelines. 

• Our Project Manager produced and submitted a full Method Statement which detailed how the work would be completed. 

We were chosen to complete the project ahead of several contractors who operate on a national basis. We were chosen for several reasons, these include: 

• Lower costs for completing the work. 

• Exceeding expectations by completing work to a higher standard than the minimum specified by the customer

• Our attention to Health and Safety guidelines and going over above the minimum required to ensure the safety of everyone on site at all times, including the client’s representatives and employees. 

• Providing a method statement which is grounded in detail. 

• Our CHAS Gold Accreditation – the highest possible level. 

• Offering a flexible approach which kept disruption to the school to a minimum. 

The Roof Replacement Process

How Gemini Roofing and Cladding Completed the Roof Replacement

We completed work for the project during the summer holiday of the school year. We also undertook the project in sections. This approach meant that disruption to the parts of the school that were still in use was minimal. 

During the project, we made sure that each section of the project was completed at the end of every day.  This was to minimise any possibility of water or weather damage to the interior of the school. 

We made sure to extract and remove all of the asbestos in accordance with UKATA guidelines. This involved each member of the team using the appropriate level of face masks and PPE. 

To ensure compliance with all standards, the removal and disposal of all asbestos was properly documented. This creates accountability and protects the environment. 

The construction process was inspected on a regular basis by Garland UK, the supplier and manufacturer of the roof. Their reports confirmed that the new roof was completed to the highest standards and as such awarded the 40 year guarantee. 

Throughout the construction process, we regularly communicated with the clients’ Quantity Surveyor. This made sure that we were adhering to the Method Statement initially submitted, and that all Health and & Safety standards were met at every stage of the construction process. 

Results & Closing Thoughts

The new roof was successfully installed and has been well-received by the school and the local authority. 

It was our privilege to be able to help the local community and we were glad to assist. Every step of the construction was carried out according to our high standards, and we’re confident that the solution in place will help to keep the school waterproof and warm for years to come. 

We want to thank anyone who was involved in the construction process, whether it was the school, local authority, the scaffolding company, labourers, Garland UK, and the Quantity Surveyor. The end result is a culmination of all efforts made by several committed parties and we couldn’t be happier. 

You can read more about our roofing and cladding services here

If you have an old roof that needs to be replaced then please click on the email below to email me or alternatively call me on 07902 989644 and we will be happy to help.

Matt Davie

Managing Director

Gemini Roofing and Cladding