Pedestrian Bridge Restoration, over a lake near Bristol
Pedestrian Bridge Restoration, over a lake near Bristol
The project includes designing access plans, environmental and managing waste solutions; safely removing all failing paint from the bridge structure; recoat the structure to an even micron thickness; replacing the canopy, guttering and balustrades; whilst working over a freshwater lake and main road.
Building Transformation was instructed to develop a strategy to safely renovate a pedestrian bridge that was constructed over 25 years ago. This bridge structure of one of the main pedestrian bridges at the site, close to Bristol.
The project includes designing access plans, environmental and waste solutions to safely remove all failing paint from the bridge structure, recoat the structure to an even micron thickness; and replace the canopy, guttering and balustrades whilst working over a freshwater lake and main road.
From identifying the initial types of paint used throughout the structure, we were able to establish an understanding of the quantities and layers of paint. This knowledge was essential to undertaking the paint stripping process, the methods required and future programming needs.
Various paint samples were taken throughout the testing phase and sent to the labs for inspection to establish the various types of paint coatings systems in-situ. With a clear understanding of the coating type, we could then recommend the best future coating system that would deliver the best performance with confidence.
It was determined that a range of different paint removal methods and solutions were required at different stages to adjust to the structure’s unique access and environmental management challenges.
Our work included:
- Specification development.
- Paint removal and laboratory sampling.
- Paint selection and application methods.
- Access planning.
- Environmental and waste management.
Methodologies
Paint removal methods were tested to determine the most effective and controllable process, methods such as Ultra High Pressure, Abrasive Aggregate and Ultra Heat based systems were tested to determine which would enable the most effective, environmentally safe and efficient paint stripping programme.
Project challenges
The project required significant planning and adjustment throughout the first phase when working on the open section of the bridge to manage and control waste within a realistic programme whilst working at night.
- Removal paint over water.
- Working at night over the highway.
- Adjusting methods of paint stripping to the environment.
We specialise in surveying, repairing, and maintaining tall, difficult-to-access commercial buildings and structures, façades, roofs, glazing and atriums.