External Waterproofing of Historic Building, Beaverbrook’s Blackpool, Lancashire

RTC, based in Blackpool, Lancashire, were appointed as the specialist contractor for an external waterproofing project at Beaverbrooks Jewellers, in the heart of Blackpool town centre. The property, originally built around 1890 and formerly used as the local Post Office, was undergoing refurbishment. As part of the specification, protecting the exposed external brickwork and stonework was a priority for the client.

To meet the demands of this high-profile heritage site, RTC applied Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream, a cutting-edge water repellent solution manufactured by Safeguard Europe and known for its superior long-term performance.

The project presented several key challenges:

• The building’s age and heritage status meant any treatments had to preserve its original appearance and character.
• Located in a busy town centre, the site required careful planning and execution to comply with health and safety regulations and minimise disruption.
• The exposed masonry was vulnerable to penetrating damp due to weathering over decades, and a long-term, breathable solution was essential.

RTC undertook the following steps to ensure effective and lasting results:

1. Scaffolding Installation
   Full scaffolding was erected with netting and protective upstands to ensure worker and public safety during the treatment. These precautions were particularly important given the town centre location.
2. Pre-Treatment Preparation
   Damaged or eroded mortar joints in the brickwork and stonework were patch-pointed using Stormdry Pointing Additive, ensuring compatibility with the main waterproofing treatment and improving longevity.
3. Application of Stormdry
   RTC technicians applied Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream, which penetrates deeply into masonry and provides up to 30 years of protection against penetrating damp. This product not only repels water but also allows the masonry to breathe, retaining the natural look and feel of the historic exterior.

Technical Excellence
All work was carried out by RTC’s highly trained technicians. RTC are qualified TrustMark-accredited and members of the Property Care Association (PCA), guaranteeing industry leading standards.

The project was completed to the highest technical and aesthetic standards. Key outcomes include:

• Long-Term Waterproofing: Stormdry’s deep-penetrating formula ensures up to three decades of protection from water ingress.
• Energy Efficiency: The treatment is scientifically proven to reduce heat loss through walls by up to 29%, providing significant energy savings for the property.
• Preservation of Character: The breathable nature of Stormdry allowed the building to retain its historic appearance without visible coatings or alteration to the brick or stone finish.

Client Assurance: With fully qualified technicians and PCA membership, RTC delivered a solution that combined modern technology with heritage sensitivity, giving the client complete peace of mind.

“This project showcases RTC’s ability to deliver specialist waterproofing solutions in sensitive heritage settings, backed by industry-best products and expert application.”