Science Buildings Re-Roofing Programme
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Summary
Protecting progress: live roofing works for the University Science department
Robertson is currently delivering a critical re-roofing programme across the University of Sheffield’s Edwardian and Chemistry buildings. Both buildings house essential teaching and research facilities, making uninterrupted operations a key priority. The works involve replacing aged and failed roofing systems with high-performance waterproofing solutions, improving thermal performance, and ensuring long-term durability.
Scope of works
The ongoing project involves renewing multiple roof areas across the Edwardian and Chemistry buildings, both of which have reached the end of their service life and are rated as failed. Works include removing redundant plant, pipework, and deteriorated roofing systems, followed by installing Garland UK-approved waterproofing solutions—comprising high-performance liquid coatings and bituminous systems to maintain warranties.
The project also includes constructing plant housings, improving thermal performance, and managing complex roof layouts with fragile rooflights, extensive M&E penetrations, and multiple levels. All activities are being carefully sequenced to minimise disruption to the live campus environment and ensure compliance with British Standards and warranty requirements.
Our approach
Our approach to this live project is rooted in collaboration and meticulous planning. We engaged early with the University and key project stakeholders to align design, programme, and warranty compliance.
Multi-zone working has been adopted, with three individual roofing gangs operating concurrently across Edwardian and Chemistry buildings to accelerate progress and maintain the programme.
Logistics are managed through two separate compounds for each building, including one dedicated compound in the Arts Tower car park, housing welfare facilities, skips, and storage, with all deliveries pre-arranged to minimise campus traffic.
Health and safety excellence underpins every activity with strict segregation measures to safeguard operatives and university staff.
Added value
Robertson brings extensive experience of working within live university environments, including previous projects on the Edwardian Building and the Interdisciplinary Centre of the Social Sciences. Lessons learned from these schemes—such as early programme agreement, robust stakeholder engagement, and effective logistics planning—are being applied to optimise delivery and minimise disruption.
Our collaborative approach ensures continuity of teaching and research, while our commitment to quality and safety guarantees zero defects at handover. By leveraging trusted supply chain partners and integrating advanced planning tools, we are delivering a solution that not only addresses immediate roofing failures but also enhances long-term performance and sustainability for the University of Sheffield.
