Classic Roofing overcame a series of practical challenges to install a stunning circular Sika Sarnafil roof as part of a newly-constructed school project.

The Walsall-based roofing contractor installed 2,600sq m of Sika Sarnafil G410-12ELF membrane in Lead Grey atop the new £5.5million Christ Church CofE Primary School building in Leamore in the West Midlands.

The colourful, curvaceous new building was designed by Seymour Harris Architects and replaces the school’s outdated former home first built in the 1970s. Funded by the national Primary Capital Programme and constructed by main contractor Willmott Dixon, the building is a big hit with the school’s 354 pupils, 30-plus staff and 26 nursery-goers.


But, says Classic Roofing's Oliver Beaumont, achieving these aesthetics brought a number of challenges. "The architect wanted the Sika Sarnafil laps and decor profiling to be directed to the middle of the circular building to complete the look," he reveals. "This meant that each layer of membrane had to be tapered, which made installation more time-consuming and tricky. The rectangular sports hall roof is also fitted with solar PV panels, with the 80 support rods all having to be individually detailed.

"It really took some thinking to get not only the best aesthetics, but also the most economical solution. Fortunately, the flexibility of the Sika Sarnafil membrane lends itself to this type of detailing in skilled hands though. We’re also a proactive team and so worked closely with the architect and main contractor to meet their requirements. As a result, the project was completed on budget and ahead of schedule. All involved were thrilled with the finished building, but Willmott Dixon was particularly pleased with our workmanship and this has led to us winning more projects with them."

For further information on Sika Sarnafil’s products and services, call 01603 709360, email sarnafilroofing@uk.sika.com or visit www.sarnafil.co.uk.