Maintaining heritage
Project Overview:
Gresham Mill in Old Woking was a paper mill, and used by Unwins Brothers Ltd, the 'Gresham Press', as a printing works from the late 17th century until 2007. Set in extensive lake-side grounds, the building has been sympathetically converted into 70 apartments and 18 town houses, retaining as many of the original architectural features as possible.
Powdertech (Corby) was commissioned to powder coat Juliette balconies and 'table top' balconies set against the old red brick of the building exterior. It was essential that the new architectural metal work would be in keeping with the appearance and overall quality of the building.
This project was entered into the 2013 Galvanizing Awards.
The Solution:
We used the duplex metal finishing system of powder coating galvanized steel as the most appropriate process for architectural steel on this 19th century building. After galvanizing & fettling, the metal went through a 9-stage immersion pre-treatment system during which it was cleaned, etched and given a chrome phosphate-based surface conversion to seal the surface and provide adhesion and a corrosion resistant finish. The finish is a Qualicoat class 1 polyester powder.
Benefits:
- The Powergalv preparation process includes specialist “degassing” before powder coating which forces out any moisture within the zinc layers which could cause pin-holing. This ensures that all surfaces are covered smoothly and evenly.
- The high quality finish will enable the metal to withstand all weather conditions, maintaining a smooth and attractive appearance and combining low maintenance with excellent protection and longevity.
