Author: jack.gough

Building Repairs – Damp Disasters And How To Avoid Them

Building Repairs 28.02.22
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  • Building repairs

Building repairs are an expected part of owning or managing a building, but there are some building repairs that fill you with dread – not only because of the cost but because of the impact on your business or tenants. Damp is one of these. 

Damp in a building doesn’t always mean disaster. In some cases, rather than building repairs you just need to educate yourself and anyone using your building on how to avoid it. However, worst-case scenarios do need interventions – luckily at GI Sykes, we have a team of experts who can make the process simple with minimal disruptions. 

So, if you suspect damp problems in your building, read on to see what practical things you can do to avoid or fix it


 

What is Damp?

According to the font of knowledge that is Wikipedia, ‘structural dampness is the presence of unwanted moisture in the structure of a building’. We’re yet to come across wanted moisture in the structure of a building, by the way! 

Damp can be categorised into two types; penetrating damp and rising damp. 

Penetrating damp is a result of water infiltration through an external wall into the property through a defect in the building or the external brickwork that has become porus. 

Rising Damp is the name given to the process of water in the ground climbing vertically through pores in the brickwork.

 

There is some controversy over the legitimacy of the term ‘rising damp’ (we know, the trade is overflowing with excitement). One expert, Stephen Boniface, once said ‘true rising damp is a myth’ which caused a bit of stir in the industry – although he did later clarify that he’d made the comment as a way to open up a seminar stating the opposite opinion with a big impact. 

Sadly his statement, while creating a buzz, was taken out of context and even now, more than a decade later, there are still blogs and articles citing this remark as evidence that rising damp doesn’t exist! (There’s probably a lesson in here about making sure your message is clear, but that’s for another day!)

Signs Of Damp

Some signs that you are in need of building repairs are obvious; cracks, uneven surfaces, dripping leaks – but what are the signs that your building has a damp problem?

A Musty Smell
Damp has a particular scent, it smells earthy like old mushrooms. If you notice a change in the aroma in your building, it is worth investigating further. 

Wet Walls And Windows

Condensation is a key indicator that building repairs are needed. Condensation happens when warm moist air inside your building comes into contact with a colder surface. Most properties will have a little condensation, bathrooms and shower rooms are notorious for it. But if you are seeing large patches of mould on your walls, ceilings or around the windows, you probably have a larger issue that needs resolving. 

If your walls look wet but don’t have water on the surface, there’s a chance the moisture is inside the wall itself. This is a sign of rising damp and will need urgent attention.

 

Warping Furniture

Damp particularly affects wood so, in cases of serious damp, we expect to see skirting and wooden furniture take in some of the moisture. This can result in bending and warping of the wood, and if left untreated, eventual rotting.

Causes Of Damp

So, now you can identify whether or not you have damp, what’s caused it in the first place?

Hot Air

The primary cause of superficial damp is too much moisture in the air. Hot showers, cooking and dry clothes on radiators are the usual culprits.

Drips

Small leaks from pipes can go on to create huge areas of damp. And as they’re small, the problem can go undetected for some time which means that by the time you notice, you may have a significant issue on your hands.

 

Gutter Defects

Damaged or wrongly installed guttering allows water to run down the walls, which over time, can lead to water ingress in your roof space and walls. While easily fixed with simple building repairs to the guttering, getting on top of this issue quickly is vital in reducing the larger problem of the damp.

Damp Course Problems

A missing, bridged or eroded damp proof course is usually the reason for rising damp. Groundwater is absorbed by the brickwork of your building, working its way upwards.

 

How To Avoid Dump?

Penetrative damp is fairly simple to remedy since the causes are environmental. Some changes to your habits and some building repairs, and your damp should be a thing of the past. To reduce the chances of damp problems or to prevent it from reoccurring, try the following:

Ventilation 

A flow of air around your building means that humid air is removed. You can start by opening your windows for a short while each day, but if that’s not enough to shift your damp ventilation systems can be installed to keep moisture at bay. 

Ensuring that furniture is away from the wall prevents moisture from getting trapped between the surfaces. This reduces the likelihood of damp and any building repairs that arise from that.

Keep The Property Warm

In an ideal world, you’d be able to keep a low heat in your building throughout the colder months as this keeps the walls warm so condensation can’t form. But with the way the energy market is, it’s not likely that anyone can afford round the clock heating. Instead having the heat on at intervals can achieve the same outcome – you just need to avoid the building becoming too cold. 

Building Repairs

Keeping on top of your building’s maintenance is essential if you want to avoid bigger problems in the future. If your guttering is damaged, wrongly fitted or even just clogged, getting that resolved is simple. At GI Sykes, we offer gutter maintenance that not only prolongs the life of your gutter but also protects against issues like damp. The same goes for roof repairs – a little investment in ongoing care means that you’re less likely to encounter costly problems down the line.

For rising damp issues, you’re going to need specialist help in inspecting the cause of the damp. While there are some temporary measures you can put in place to reduce the effects of rising damp, you will need to resolve the root cause. We’re happy to help you understand your damp problem better, just give us a call to arrange a no-obligation chat.

Got Damp?

If you suspect that you need building repairs to stop damp, then get in touch. We have a specialist team of contractors who can identify the causes of your damp and provide quick, efficient solutions.

 

 

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  • Industrial painting

Is your commercial building fading, peeling old paint or just worse for wear? Industrial painting isn’t just for new buildings. If your paint is over for a few years old and showing signs of ageing, you probably need it repainted professionally.

If you’re not sure whether you need the help of industrial painting experts, imagine that you’re going to a new restaurant. You’re excited to try this place out for the first time, but once you get there the first thing you see is the chipped, dull, peeling exterior of the building. 

What might go through your mind at that point? You might assume a few things about this establishment, like their level of cleanliness or attention to detail. You would wonder why the owners weren’t bothered about making a good impression?

The truth is that looks really do matter when it comes to commercial buildings, particularly when you want to make lasting first impressions and keep your building protected from the elements.

 

Reason 1 – Protect And Extend The Life Of Your Building

By regularly maintaining your building and ensuring that the site is routinely inspected, you can make huge building maintenance savings. That’s because prevention is the best cure. 

While an average warehouse panel can cost anywhere from ÂŁ500 and ÂŁ1500, you can avoid these costs by simply keeping up with things like industrial painting, roof repairs and general wear and tear. Repainting your commercial building means that any small issues can be seen and fixed before they become bigger problems, like leaks.

Industrial painting doesn’t just make your building look good, it serves a practical purpose. Keeping your cladding and trim painted actually seals and protects them from extreme temperature changes, moisture ingress or even infestations of insects. 

As well as this, a well-maintained building is worth more than a slowly degrading one. The market value of your industrial property is higher when it’s painted with suitable paint and has more ‘kerb appeal’. Whether or not you’re thinking of selling your building, maintaining a high market value is a good idea.

Reason 2 – Give A Better Impression

You wouldn’t walk into the supermarket, go to the canned soup aisle, and choose the rusted, dented tin without a label. Of course not – you’d choose the tin of soup that had all the information on the outside that you needed or was the recognisable brand you like.

Making a good impression of your company can be the difference between a sale or a lost customer. Even if you don’t have customers walking off the street to come into your building, it still represents your business, your brand and your ethos. 

Decomposed cladding won’t show passersby that your company is dedicated to all aspects of your business, or that you can be relied on to get things done. Unfortunately, poor building maintenance will tell your customers and team the exact opposite. 

But there’s a way to make an excellent first impression, and it’s as simple as respraying. 

By showing people that you really do care about the little details, you can bring in the kind of customers that share your values and want the same level of attention that you give to every aspect of your company.

 

Reason 3 – Boost Morale

Industrial painting can give your building a new lease on life, but it can benefit your staff too.

As a business owner, you bought your commercial building for a reason. You probably needed a space where you could grow your company and have room for all of the staff you required. A huge part of that growth with a team of employees is productivity. 

A good example of this theory in action is the effect of colour on mood. For instance, the colour black can give an impression of strength in moderation but can feel oppressive if used excessively. Grey is most often used for commercial buildings because of its connection with feelings of practicality and being a blank canvas to inspire creativity. 

With this in mind, be aware of just how much the appearance of your building can affect your business on a large scale. 

If the space you’ve given your team is hindering their ability or will to be the best you want them to be, then you have a big problem. Deadlines or standards may not be met if your team feels like your company doesn’t care about them as much as they care about doing the job right. 

If your team is forced to walk into a dreary, neglected building every morning, it makes sense that they wouldn’t feel motivated or excited to work for you. On the other hand, if you maintain a clean-looking, cared-for exterior then your business can grow from the inside out.

 

Industrial Painting Done Right

Now that you know how much a poorly kept painted exterior can affect your business, you can also consider the benefits of a building respray. By repainting the exterior of your industrial premises, you will be protecting the materials, keeping your property market value higher all while keeping on top of your general building maintenance. Give a better impression with a clean, professional-looking exterior that gets customers through your proverbial door if not your literal door. And of course, don’t forget how much your team will value being in an environment that shows them how much you care about the work they do.

The first step to achieving all of that is getting in touch with industrial painting professionals like our experienced team at GI Sykes. As the industrial painting contractors of choice for warehouses, factories and commercial buildings, we can help you maintain your industrial premises. 

 

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  • Cladding Cleaning

Cladding cleaning may not be at the top of your to-do list, but keeping your cladding in good condition not only gives it a better look, it can also extend its lifespan. While cladding cleaning isn’t a complex job, there are certain aspects that need to be done right to ensure that the integrity of your cladding isn’t compromised. In this blog, we share the dos and don’ts of cladding cleaning, so your cladding always looks its best.

What Is Cladding?

You probably know what cladding is, especially if you’re looking at ways to keep yours clean. But just in case you don’t, here’s a quick overview of what cladding is. Cladding is a type of covering that is added to the exterior of a building; it serves a wide range of purposes, some of which might surprise you. 

Thermal Insulation

Cladding is often added to older buildings to improve insulation. 

Weather Resistance

Cladding is ideal for added protection against weathering.

Sound Control

Some types of cladding panels are used for soundproofing a space. 

Aesthetics 

Cladding improves the appearance of your building and can be matched to your business’ branding to enhance your company’s profile. 

What Happens To Cladding?

Unsurprisingly, cladding bears the brunt of the elements, and in the UK, our diverse weather can really put it through its paces.

In winter, the frost and rain cause dirt and grit to build up, especially on cladding that’s textured or corrugated. You’ve probably seen dirty cladding on your local industrial estate – the grey/black coating of muck make even the most vibrant coloured cladding look dull and ugly. 

The summer weather brings another potential issue – sun fade. Bright sunlight causes your cladding’s paintwork to look patchy and uneven, especially if something nearby casts a shadow, as that area is more protected from the glare.

Added to the changing weather is the problem that bird droppings can present. If birds flyer over or sit or nest on your building, then chances are you’re going to have areas where there is bird poop. Aside from the obvious unappealing appearance, streaks of bird excrement also pose a risk to any coatings on your cladding. Cleaning bird poop off quickly is vital, as the ph levels of it are high, meaning it is very acidic. If left, the uric acid can corrode paint and lacquer which then requires a more intense restoration process.

Cladding Cleaning: What You Can Do

Cladding cleaning can be tackled by yourself if you have the right tools and know-how, although we tend to recommend DIY cladding cleaning for small areas since it can be a laborious task that carries some risk (both to you and your cladding) that’s best left to those who do it for a living!

Cladding cleaning is most effective when you use the right method and products for the type of cladding used on your building. The most commonly used cladding is; 

Timber

Wood cladding can transform a building’s look and is currently very popular. But, despite its lovely appearance, wood cladding can begin to look tired and weathered fairly quickly, with black stains which are actually watermarks. You can use a pressure washer on your wood cladding, as long as the pressure is fairly gentle. At high pressure, the jets run the risk of splintering and damaging the wood. If you’re worried about breaking your wood cladding, cleaning with a specialist solution might be a better option. 

Stone/Brick

Brick cladding responds well to a power washer. It’s strong enough to withstand the intense water jets which help to clear dirt and debris. However, brick and stone cladding are prone to algae build-up which sometimes requires more specialised treatment. There are cleaners available to buy, however, it’s essential that you ensure you use the correct solution for your type of stone or brick. 

Glass

Glass cladding is a sophisticated option and is often seen on towering office blocks. From a design perspective, it’s incredibly versatile but from a cleaning perspective – it needs a lot! As you’ll know from your own windows at home, glass quickly shows dirt and watermarks left by the rain. Fortunately, cleaning glass is fairly easy – as long as you use the right cleaner. Streaks left by a cloth and squeegee can be frustrating so make sure you use the right technique to avoid these.

Metal

Metal or aluminium cladding is most popular among industrial buildings thanks to its cost-effective price and strength. A power washer will clean any dirt and grime, and you can use a detergent to lift off any residue, however, DO NOT use chemicals as these can remove or damage the paintwork or coatings on your cladding.

 

Vinyl

Vinyl cladding is a rising star in the cladding world, mostly thanks to its low maintenance and durability. It’s mostly manufactured to resemble wood grain, so lots of properties are now opting for vinyl cladding instead of wood. Cleaning vinyl cladding is straightforward, firstly, brush off any dirt from the panels and then apply detergent with a cloth. You can use a power washer to rinse the soap away. 

Should You DIY Cladding Cleaning?

This is the real question
sometimes just because you can, doesn’t mean you should! Cleaning the exterior of your building is a huge undertaking, even if you have a relatively small property. And besides the time you need to set aside to complete your cladding cleaning, you’ll also need to invest in the products required to do the job. While the market has some great cleaners and jet washers available for the public to buy, nothing really compares to the professional-grade cleaners that we use. 

The last point to consider is probably the most important one. Personal safety. Chances are, some of your cladding is at roof height, and even on a single storey building, that’s some elevation. You will either need to invest in a good quality telescopic or extendable cleaning pole (cheap ones aren’t worth the money) or look at hiring in a platform. Either way, cladding cleaning is a gruelling task – which is why it’s one of our most requested services. 

Hiring GI Sykes for your cladding cleaning means that not only do you get a professional finish that uses protective products but you also don’t take any personal injury or damage risks. Contact us to find out more about our cladding cleaning and cladding maintenance services.

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  • Roof Coating
  • Roofing
  • specialist coatings

Roof coating is one of the most effective ways to reduce your business’s environmental impact and increase your building’s efficiency. In recent years, businesses have been increasingly investing in the preservation of their commercial spaces, which, for many, has helped to lessen the impact of recent economic stress.

If you’ve been considering roof coating for your commercial property, then read on to see why it is such an incredibly beneficial route to go.

 

What Is Roof Coating?

Before we get to what makes roof coating so good, we’re going to briefly outline what it is. Roof coating is quite literally, coating your roof with a substance to provide enhanced protection from weathering and ageing. At GI Sykes, we use the industry’s most respected and trusted brands such as Giromax, Tor Coatings and Cromapol because we know that these products, along with our expertise, will give you the most long-lasting protection.

So, why opt for roof coating?

It Saves You Money

Top of the list is the one that can have the greatest direct impact on your business. Roof coating saves your business money in a variety of ways. It acts as insulation for your building, so your space stays warmer for longer. In winter, you’ll be able to drop the thermostat a couple of degrees without making your staff and customers feel the chill. With the coming energy cost price hike, this could be very welcome news!

In summer, a roof coating can also help to deflect UV rays which can keep your space cooler. If you find that your building gets stuffy and hot, a huge heat-attracting roof is certainly going to add to the discomfort. By adding a roof coating, you can help to bring the ambient temperature down.

Longer Life Span

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that a protective roof coating will extend the lifespan of your roof. Not only will that reduce your annual maintenance budget, but it will also mean that you can stave off expensive roof replacement by some stretch.

The cost of adding a roof coating is insignificant when compared to that of replacing your roof, but it is something that needs to be done before age-related damage and weathering sets in. If you have a relatively new roof you may think that it’s all good for a few years – but the best time to take preventative action is at the start. There’s never a ‘too early’ for roof coating, but there can be a ‘too late’!

In the UK, our weather is diverse – winters are often frosty, we have year-round rain, as well as periods of dry, hot sun in the summer and early autumn. Your roof will bear the brunt of these extremes, often suffering minor damage and problems as a result. Roof coating will give you peace of mind that your roof will be resilient to corrosion, rust, bubbling, sagging and other common issues.

Innovation in the roof coating industry has led to some of the most durable and effective roof coating products on the market. The brands we use have a proven track record in adding many years of life to a roof, some for up to 20 years. They provide multiple levels of roof protection and greater resistance to the variation in climate.

 

Be More Green

Reducing your environmental impact is a key focus for many people. There’s a responsibility on businesses to set an example and do all they can to become more sustainable – in fact, it’s thought that 81% of people prefer to buy from or use businesses that are more sustainable and green.

Roof coating helps you achieve this. By adding insulation, you’re increasing your building’s energy efficiency. The same goes for the summer too – a cooler building means you don’t need to crank up the air conditioning or blast many fans around the space. 

Not to mention the very act of elongating the lifespan of your roof means that over the course of its existence you need fewer repairs and therefore fewer materials. And since your roof is lasting longer, you won’t require replacement as often, meaning less waste ends up in landfill.

A Good Impression

In business, you probably know that there’s nothing so powerful as a good impression. If your property is in disrepair, then the impression your clients and employees are given can be a negative one. No one wants to be known as ‘that shabby building on the corner’. 

By having a roof coating, you will be left with a pristine and seamless look to your roof. Coating also comes in different colours so if you want a smart black roof or a modern grey one, talk to us about how we can help.

 

Safety

One hazard with some roofs is the risk of degradation over time. Poorly maintained roofs and old roofs carry a risk of pieces becoming loose or unstable, which can end up falling to the ground where passers-by are endangered. By adding roof coating, you secure your roof and prevent future debris.

Roof Coating: The Wise Choice?

You may call us biased, but we think roof coating is the wisest choice for commercial property owners. We have roof coating at GI Sykes HQ because we know the value of prevention over cure. Our roof, and the roofs that we coat, will last longer, be more energy-efficient and look smarter for many years to come.

It’s a fast and easy process. Unlike having your roof removed and replaced, our team can prolong your current roof without any hassle. And if you’re worried about having to close while we apply your new roof coating, don’t be. Our expert contractors can work around your opening hours to minimise disruption to your business, and if the work can be carried out while you’re open, our team of professional roof coating specialists will ensure that it’s seamless and stress free for you and your business. 

Still on the fence? If you’re not sure if roof coating really is the right investment for you, give the team a call. We can talk in detail about your roof and how we can help.

 

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  • Industrial painting
  • specialist coatings
  • spraying

Bubbling paint can make your building look run down, dilapidated or scruffy. When it comes to industrial painting, damaged paint is frustrating, especially when you can’t find the reason for it. 

But when it comes to large commercial buildings, paint bubbling, cracking or peeling is incredibly common. 

Why does this happen – even to high-quality paints?

Blistering and bubbling is something most painters and building owners experience, sadly. But there are a few causes for paint damage, which you can learn here in the hopes of avoiding it altogether.

 

It Starts With Painting Mistakes

Paint is pretty strange when it comes down to it. It reacts to different temperatures and moisture levels differently. Paint blisters and peels if there’s too much moisture in your air or if it gets too hot. 

If you’re unlucky enough to get both of these together your paint might even start pulling away from the surface and crumbling off.

That’s obviously something you want to avoid, so what situations cause paint to react like this?

Damp and heat are huge contributors to paint damage. Your best option if you’re painting in these conditions is to allow the surface to become dry and cool before you begin painting. Painting onto a hot or damp surface is just going to end in a paint bubble disaster.

The same applies if you’re painting outdoors. Let the paint dry completely before being exposed to heat or damp, or you’ll see cracks appear almost instantly.

Another big mistake to watch out for in industrial painting and residential painting alike is using an alkyd paint over the top of a latex paint. This also ends in peeling, and your only choice will be to remove the paint and start again. 

These are the biggest mistakes that can be at the root of obvious paint damage, but there are plenty of types of paint damage with different causes.

How Is Paint Damage Caused?

The way your paint finishes can be affected by a lot of factors. Usually, damage happens because it wasn’t prevented in the first place.

If you’re seeing bubbling, blistering, peeling, cracking or flaking it’s probably because of the way it was painted. Different issues cause different types of damage.

Here are the types of damage you’re most likely to want an explanation for


  • Bubbling And Blistering – This happens when the top layer of paint comes away from the layer below or the wall surface itself. Most often you’ll experience this in humid or damp rooms or otherwise on building exteriors. The biggest culprit for bubbling is painting during damp conditions or extreme heat.
  • Flaking – Paint can begin to flake and crumble after long term exposure to UV rays. You’re more likely to see flaking on older buildings or on paint that is very old. 
  • Cracks – For cracks specifically the likely cause is that you either used too many layers of paint or the surface you painted was dirty. This doesn’t allow the paint to solidify properly, making it unstable. 

 

If you’re having trouble keeping up with all of these varieties of paint damage and how to avoid them, consider getting the help of a professional in industrial painting. But if nothing else, the one thing you can do to prevent paint damage altogether is to be prepared.

How To Stop It

To stop your paint from bubbling or worse, make sure you’re taking the obvious steps to avoid damage. 

If you’re in a rush or trying to DIY your painting, then it might be tempting to skip these things, but do these simple things and you’ll be glad when your surface is bubble-free.

Firstly, prepare your surface! Ensure it’s dry, clean, and not extremely hot or cold. 

Secondly, don’t forget your primer. Apply a coat of this to begin with for a better finish, and use primer to touch up any staining before your main coat of paint.

Lastly, be aware of the elements – if you’re painting an exterior then don’t expose your paint to the elements before it’s fully dried. Follow these basic steps and you’re much less likely to face blistering, flaking, and cracks.

 

Repairing Paint Damage

Of course, your other option is to repair the damage already appearing in the paint. Ideally, bring in the help of an industrial painting contractor to properly repair your commercial building. 

The process of repairing paint damage of any kind can be quite involved and time-consuming, so having a professional on hand is your best option.

Bubbling paint can be concerning, but ultimately it’s avoidable by ensuring the surface is dry, clean and cool. Avoid mistakes like layering certain paint types and not letting the paint dry before exposing it to harsh conditions. Get the help of a professional in industrial painting to make sure paint damage problems are avoided and prevented properly. 

At GI Sykes we’re the first choice for industrial painting for factories, warehouses and all commercial buildings. With over 100 years of industrial painting experience, we can help with old, marked walls or damaged paint. Get in touch today for a free quote.

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  • Building contractor

Choosing a building contractor can be difficult. We’ve all heard about contractor nightmares on TV or from friends – cautionary tales about bodge jobs done by cowboy builders that leave buildings without a roof for months on end or worse. 

Luckily there are some great building contractors out there and if you know what to look out for then you’ll be able to find someone who’ll get your project completed on time and to a high standard. 

Here’s our top 7 things to look for in a building contractor…

 

1: A Long, Proven Track Record

A proven track record is a great sign that the building contractor will deliver on their promises. Once you have a building contractor in mind, find out how long they’ve been in business and ask if they can provide testimonials.

By doing this, you can understand their experience in the industry and learn more about the experience their past customers have had working with them. 

2: Transparent Quotes

Your quote should be clear, complete and easy to understand. Always ask for a quote to come in writing (usually by email) and not just be agreed verbally, as this gives you some backup if you need to query anything later on. 

Included in the quote should be:

  • Exactly what will be completed in the project. 
  • Whether materials are included or not.
  • What is NOT included.
  • Fees clearly explained ie. VAT or extras.

Including all of this in the quote protects your interests and prevents any confusion further into the project. A clear, comprehensive quote is also a sign that you’re dealing with a professional contractor. 

3: Insurance

Insurance is a must for any project. But be sure to check that your building contractor has comprehensive insurance that covers the type of work they’re completing for you too. 

The biggest red flag is a contractor without any public liability insurance. Insurances don’t just protect the contractor, they make sure you have a system of redress to follow if things go wrong or accidents happen. Protecting you, your property and even your people.

 

4: Speedy Response Time

You want to see signs of good customer service from the outset – a speedy response time is a good indicator of how you’ll be treated as a customer.

Does a contractor take weeks to reply to your first emails and calls? This could be due to poor customer service or because they are simply too busy for you or don’t have the organisational skills that you need in a contractor. 

Look for someone that replies quickly to your enquiries, gives full answers to your questions and seems to be happy to help you understand the needs of your project. 

5: Accreditation

Accreditation is a certificate of sorts. It’s proof that your contractor has trained specifically to work to particular standards. But even if you’re not that interested in the specific certifications, accreditation shows that the contractor is serious about what they do and can meet high standards. 

There are lots of accreditations different building contractors may have. The most common ones include:

  • ISO accreditations, like the ISO 9001 and ISO 4001, which ensure quality customer service and environmental management systems respectively
  • CHAS, proof of good health and safety processes

The more accreditations, the better as it means they have trained to these standards. And if you have specific interests, like environmentally friendly building, accreditations can help you select the contractor that fits your requirements perfectly.

 

6: More Than A One Man Band

Before you make your final decision on a building contractor, think about whether you want to work with a one-man band or a business with a bigger team.

Both options have their bonuses and drawbacks, but if you have an important or commercial project to get started on, an established contractor with a team could be right for you.

A team will have access to more people, more resources and a wider range of expertise. With a bigger team on hand, you’ve also got less chance of long downtimes. 

Imagine if your one-man band contractor fell ill and you had to hit pause on the job for a few months? You’d wish there was a larger team that could come in and continue work.

7: Honest Answers

This might seem obvious, but honest answers help you pick a building contractor you can really trust.

When you ask your contractor a question, you don’t want to hear confusing arguments or feel like they’re holding back advice. Clear communication is key to any project big or small, which is why honesty is so important in a contractor.

The Ideal Building Contractor Is


Ideally, your chosen building contractor should be able to prove their track record with testimonials and case studies, give clear quotes with fast response times, and show up with accreditations and insurance.

A larger contractor might be better suited to your project if it’s important that you stay on schedule or for commercial projects, but most of all make sure you find a contractor you can trust.

GI Sykes has worked hard for over 55 years to tick all of these boxes so our clients know the job will get done – and it’ll get done right. If you’d like to talk to us to find out if we’re the right contractor for you, just get in touch here. 

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  • flat roof
  • Flat Roof Repair

Is your flat roof in need of repair? Flat roofing is a cost-effective option, that’s why so many buildings choose flat roofs. You might have heard that flat roofs don’t last very long, but that’s not strictly true. With the right care and attention, you can extend the life of your roof to give you a watertight and long-lasting solution. 

Issues with a flat roof can be due to weather, the age of the roof, and general wear and tear. When it comes to flat roof repair, the most important thing is to spot the early signs of damage before anything more serious and costly happens. 

Already noticed one of these warning signs? 

The next crucial step is deciding whether a complete replacement or a flat roof repair is the better option for you. A specialist contractor can give you the best suggestions either way. 

Most of the time a repair will be more cost-effective than a full replacement (as you might have guessed) and ultimately extends the life of your existing roof. That’s why it’s a good idea to watch out for little things like a small leak. They can snowball into bigger problems if you put off little repairs too long!

Here’s what you need to watch out for
 

1: Water Pooling And Flat Roof Repair

This is one of the biggest problems we come across. Pooling water might not seem like a serious matter if you’re not seeing it seep through the roof, but it can cause big issues if left unresolved. Water pooling causes stress and pressure points, which leads to cracks over time. 

Why does it happen? 

Unfortunately, your flat roof may not be, well, perfectly flat!

If your building has shifted or settled over time then small – or even large – divots can occur in the surface of the roof. These dips naturally gather small amounts of water when it rains. 

Flat roofs are designed to withstand some water gathering, but persistent water pools will cause wear over time if they don’t drain properly. If the pools happen consistently and in the same spot, then your building is more at risk of damage.

Keep an eye out for water pooling that frequently occurs in the same spots or gets worse over time. If you spot something concerning, get your roof checked out by a professional roofing contractor.

2: Flashing

Flashing is a thin sheet of material meant to prevent water from seeping through your roof. It can be tempting to ignore flashing problems because it’s not always easy to see the full extent of them. 

But this is a big mistake.

If left unresolved, these problems can worsen and lead to more serious damage.

Flashing can pull away from the edges of the roof as time passes. This is because flat roofs with asphalt will inevitably expand and contract with heat and moisture changes in the surrounding environment. 

If moisture gets trapped between the layers of the roof, leaks can appear in your ceiling – something no building owner wants to deal with on a Monday morning!

You might think things like small leaks and flashing that’s coming away from the edges can wait a little while. Unfortunately, if you don’t invest in flat roof repair at the earliest sign of flashing issues, you might be forced to replace your flat roof entirely.

 

3: Top Coat Damage

Topcoat is a solution covering the roof to give a nicer cosmetic finish as well as an important watertight seal. The most obvious sign of top coat damage you can look out for, or listen out for, is a fluttering noise. 

When outside or even sometimes inside your building, listen for a constant fluttering sound. This will be most noticeable during high winds. If you can hear this clearly, it’s likely that your top coating is damaged. 

Visually, you can understand the problem best as the top layer of material coming away from the rest of the roof and literally fluttering in the wind. When it does this, you can imagine the gradual damage this causes as your roof is exposed to the elements.

Don’t let your flat roof fail entirely because of something as simple as top coat damage. If you’ve seen some signs of top coat wear, then get a flat roof repair contractor to assess the situation.

4: Organic Growth 

Organic growth is exactly what you think it is. Sometimes things like moss, algae and lichen can grow on or even start to cover your flat roof. This isn’t a huge problem in itself, but it is a clear sign that your roof needs some help. 

These types of organic growth on your flat roof signifies that there is water either pooling or being retained by the roofing materials. If you leave this plant life to its devices, it can lead to some pretty severe damage. 

If you’ve noticed anything growing on your roof then get a flat roof contractor to inspect it, as something simple like flat roof cleaning could be the easiest solution.

 

5: Leaks And Moisture

The most obvious sign that your flat roof is in need of repair – cracks and leaks! Like any other roof, flat roofs can be vulnerable to unwanted moisture. With leaks or moisture being absorbed from long term pooling, cracks can appear and eventually worsen.

The biggest problems that come with excess moisture are mould and structural damage, and nobody wants their roof diagnosed with either – they can mean big expenses.

Having your flat roof inspected regularly for signs of leaks and moisture will prevent any mould problems from popping up in the first place. 

If you don’t manage to catch the issues when they first appear, make sure you ask the advice of a trusted flat roof specialist or you could find yourself shelling out for a whole flat roof replacement instead.

The Benefits of Repairing Your Flat Roof

The last thing you want is to fork out for a flat roof replacement when you didn’t need to. That’s why ongoing maintenance and flat roof repair is your most cost-effective and convenient solution. 

Other benefits of repairing your flat roof include: 

  • Longer-lasting roof – You can extend the life of your roof by preventing bigger issues. 
  • Protect your property – Preventing damage to your building and interior. 
  • Greater peace of mind – Knowing that your roof is watertight when the wet winter months come.  
  • Less Hassle – Flat roof repair is usually quick to do and can be done without closing down your building. 
  • Avoid business interruption – Avoid the inconvenience of shutting down your building due to water damage or a full roof replacement. 

If it’s industrial and commercial flat roof repair you’re looking for, GI Sykes is the roofing contractor you can trust. With 55 years in business, GI Sykes is a family run contractor offering reliable service and clear quotes. Don’t leave your cracked, leaking, or compromised flat roof unchecked. Contact us for a free quote here. 

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  • cladding
  • specialist coatings
  • spraying

Considering cladding spraying for your commercial property? There’s some things you need to know
 

 

Cladding spraying is an affordable and effective way to revive your building and prolong the life of your cladding. It can protect your property from the elements, freshen up the appearance of your building and improve the lifespan of your cladding. 

Common issues it can help with include: 

  • Discolouration or fading – Changes in the colour of your cladding, often caused by the weather, UV light and moisture in the air. 
  • Chalking – Lifting, flaking or worn away paint. 
  • Delamination & Separation – moisture damage that creates rust, which can split the top layer from the metal of the cladding. 

But before you instruct a contractor, there’s some important questions you need to ask. 

1: Should I Spray Or Replace My Cladding? 

While cladding spraying is a great way to smarten up your property’s appearance, it’s important to know the difference between when your cladding should be coated or replaced. If your cladding is discoloured, the paint is flaking or chalking or rust is starting to appear, then cladding spraying is an appropriate treatment. However, if your cladding is badly damaged, broken or corroded beyond repair then spraying may not be suitable. 

A good spraying contractor will assess the condition of your cladding and give you impartial advice on the best approach for your property. 

2: Will You Clean My Cladding Before Spraying? 

Cladding is your first line of defence against the elements. Because of this, over time your cladding will collect dirt, grime and even moss. Spraying over dirt will impact the quality of your coating, so it’s essential that your spraying contractor fully cleans and prepares your cladding before spraying. 

A good contractor will remove any moss or lichen, clean any dirt and grime and remove any flaking paint before applying the specialist coating. 

 

3: How Long Will My Cladding Spraying Last? 

Specialist cladding coatings are designed to increase the lifespan of your cladding, protecting your building from the elements and improving the aesthetic of your building. Not all coatings are created equal, so be sure to ask your contractor how long the coatings they intend to use will last. 

A good contractor will be happy to advise you on what you can expect from the treatment, as well as any potential issues they can see that may arise from your specific building. 

4: What Type Of Spray Coating Do You Use? 

There are many different brands of specialist cladding coatings, and as with all things, some are better than others. Professional brands such as PPG Johnstone’s, Giromax and Tor Coatings have been specially designed to be long lasting, durable and to give an excellent finish. 

A good spraying specialist will be able to tell you which coatings they intend to use for your project and why they consider them to be the best choice. Avoid cheap coatings or “off-brand” options, as these may not give you the best return on your investment in the long run. 

5: How Much Will The Project Cost? 

Your building is unique, so the price for your cladding spraying project should be too. It’s impossible to price a job accurately when you haven’t seen it, so a good contractor will always do a site visit before providing you with a quote. They’ll give you a written quote, that makes it easy to understand the total cost for your cladding spraying, as well as a pricing breakdown to help you see where your money is going. 

Be wary of a contractor that won’t provide a written quote, bamboozles you with complicated costings or refuses to confirm that there won’t be any hidden costs associated with the project. 

 

6: How Do I Know You’re A Reputable Contractor? 

The building industry has a mix of experienced, trustworthy contractors and unreliable cowboys who will do a bodge-job. So how can you know who to choose? It can be hard to know who to trust, but looking for the following attributes can help you make the right choice. 

A reputable contractor will: 

  • Have a visible web presence
  • Have many years of experience in the trade 
  • Have verified testimonials for you to view 
  • Be easy to communicate with and happy to answer questions
  • Give you a written quote with all costs included 

7: Will You Colour Match My Paint? 

Cladding coatings aren’t just about protection, they can give your building a facelift too. Getting the best finish for your cladding is important if you want your property to look the best it can be. By colour matching your coating colour to your existing painting or other areas of cladding that are not being treated, you can avoid that mismatched, patchwork appearance and even match your brand colours. 

A good spraying contractor will be able to match your colour, giving you an aesthetically pleasing finish. 

Looking For A Reputable Cladding Spraying Contractor? 

If you’re looking for a cladding spraying contractor for your commercial project, we’d love to hear from you. Here at GI Sykes, we’ve been providing excellent service, competitive quotes and flawless finishes for more than 55 years. To find out more about our cladding spraying services click here or get in touch to arrange a quote. 

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