Recycled rubber chippings for a roof terrace
Challenge
We were asked for a solution on top of an office block in Liverpool City Centre. The Stanley Hall building was extensively remodelled with contemporary architectural features. Our task was to turn an unused rooftop into a modern and contemporary space to relax and socialise. The brief was quite clear; the client was looking for the following:
- A decorative material that would improve the aesthetic of the area
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Long-lasting and lightweight material
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Material that wouldn’t hold moisture
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Good insulating material
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Soundproofing material
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A material that had a cushion effect if someone tripped or fell.
Action
We applied a 50mm covering of our recycled 20mm rubber chipping to the entire area. Safer Surfacing collects the tyres from car dealerships, MOT centres and garages. We recycle tyres through shredding, granulation, vibration and magnetic separation. The rubber chipping is then polyurethane sealed and coloured resulting in it a long-lasting and colourful finish.
All the Safer Surfacing range of rubber chippings are critical fall height certified. The 20mm chippings used for this project are 99.9% wire free and make an excellent fall attenuating surface.
Result
The finished area meets all of the clients’ criteria and has transformed the area. The resultant surface is soft to walk on and dries quickly after rain. Being a lightweight product it adds little to the load-bearing capacity of the roof.
The chippings can be hosed down or brushed, meaning they require minimal maintenance. A more permanent solution is also available in the form of resin bonded rubber mulch, chippings or crumb, this is achieved by mixing the recycled rubber material with a polyurethane resin binder and is laid similarly to laying a screed.
