Sika SA is proud to be involved with an initiative that was all about the coming together of a dire need, some selfless people and a fantastic product. The Methodist Church in Newton Park, Pickering Street was having issues with an old roof. A previous torch-on membrane roof job was becoming problematic and leaking; however, the church had no funds to remove and replace the old roof.

Ros Bosch from Sika South Africa was approached by a member of the church. Due to her longstanding relationship with the church, Ros was eager to share her expertise and be of assistance. After inspection, two possible solutions for the church roof were suggested. “I recommended an option of our Sika® BlackSeal Silvercoat as an aluminium protective layer on top, and the other option being Sika’s premium waterproof coating, Sikalastic®-560. Sikalastic®-560 was the product of choice. 

Sikalastic®-560 is a cold-applied, one component rubber-like elastomeric liquid-applied waterproofing membrane. Its highly elastic, durable and UV resistant qualities make it an easy to work with product, and as per this project, the most suitable product for extending the life cycle of a failing roof such as this bitumen torch-on system. Sikalastic®-560 is known for its outstanding seamless finish as well as the ease of using the product around detailed and complex areas. An added benefit is that it acts as a reflective coating to enhance energy efficiency by reducing cooling costs. For those wanting to steer away from the conventional bitumen waterproofing systems, Sikalastic®-560 is the ideal substitute.

Henrick Strumpher the owner of Ncera Uluntu which means Helping People was the Contractor tasked with the application job of the Sikalastic®-560. Henrick has done much charitable work for Sika in the past. The roof was prepared correctly and 3 x layers of Sikalastic®-560 were applied by Ncera. In all, and with thanks to Builders Express at Newton Park for their specially reduced prices, 80 litres of Sikalastic®-560 grey was used for this fix. Sikalastic®-120 Fleece membrane was applied in the flashings where there is a lot of movement. While wind and rain provided some challenges, the work was faultless, and the church is delighted with the result of their newly refurbished roof.