Commercial Case Studies

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Client/contractor: Kingston Borough Council
Product: QSANDBOND (Qseal) Date: April 2004 - to 2008

Problem
The Royal Borough of Kingston is a high profile major town on the outskirts of London. It sits on the River Thames, and is rightfully proud of its facilities and heritage. Considerable funds had been committed to improving facilities still further and with the incremental facilities created came increased maintenance demands.

One such area was Eden Street where a brand new section of Perfecta light grey paving was introduced to this high pedestrian traffic area and it quickly became apparent that this new area needed to be adequately protected so as to resist chewing gum deposits and make surface cleaning easier.

Solution
QSS tendered and was contracted to provide an end to end solution embracing pre cleaning the paving and then applying kiln dried sand to all joints. QSANDBOND (now see Qseal) was then applied to the surface providing elastomeric pre-polymer impregnation to both the joint sand and upper surface of the paving.

The 2-3mm deep QSANDBOND treatment reduced Gum deposits and and transformed the cleaning process.

Benefits

• Long term stabilisation of jointing material/paver units.
• Gum adhesion reduced by 60%
• Reduced cleaning effort by circa 50%
• Lower whole life cost of the surface created making refurbishment much more cost effective.

The client solution was simplified by the fact that one contractor provided the total solution rather than trying to manage appropriate cleaners, sealant suppliers and low skill level application contractors.

To date QSS have carried out a further 5500m² of ‘one stop shop’ impregnations for RBK in New Malden High Street, Castle Street and in the High Street outside the famous Rose Theatre and outside Jamie Oliver's Italian restaurant. The continued relationship confirms Kingston's relationship with QSS as a highly productive one.

“The Eden street area definitely cleans far more easily than the surrounding unsealed areas. In addition, the low population of pieces of chewing gum is highly evident.”

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Client/contractor: Bedford Borough Council
Product: QSANDBOND (Qseal) Date: March 2006

Problem
Bedford is the County Town of Bedfordshire and as such it needs to present its environs in the best state all the time. Over the years the paving jointing had been progressively washed out.

Bedford Borough Council required a sealer to prevent future sand loss from slab footways which had primarily been caused by the effects of continuous mechanical sweeping. They were also keen to reduce the adhesion of chewing gum in high traffic, high profile central areas.

A one stop solution was required that would embrace deep cleaning the paving, re-sanding all vacant joints and supplying and applying a 'best in class’ sealant to stabilise joint material and provide the added benefit of reducing the adhesion of chewing gum.

Solution
Following the tendering process QSS were contracted to carry out the whole process which included deep cleaning and entailed removing 288,000 pieces of chewing gum as well as general detritus.

All vacant joints were re-sanded with kiln dried sand, the joint material and paving surfaces were then impregnated with over 4 tons of QSANDBOND – now branded Qseal. The Impregnation used has been applied in Bedford for over 14 years and has proved itself over this extended period.

Benefits

• Test measuring before treatment and over 1 year later, on 20 separate areas proved a 60% gum reduction
• Long term stabilisation of jointing material/paver units - guaranteed for 5 years
• Reduced cleaning effort saving much needed resources
• Lower whole life costs

This successful initiative enabled Bedford Borough Council to gain significant funding from DEFRA to continue gum reduction campaigning.

“Whenever something happens to our urban facilities that we need to resolve quickly and efficiently we determine whether we possess the skills and experience and if we don’t we contact QSS and it gets sorted.”

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Client/contractor: Bedford Borough Council
Product: QshieldAG Date: June 2006

Problem
The bridge is at the heart of this county town and is seen as a highly prized feature. Removal of the graffiti was viewed as an absolute priority by the council and they were concerned as to the permanent damage that could ensue as a direct result of the removal process.

They then wanted to reduce the risk of a recurrence of the problem in the future by the application of an effective and appropriate treatment that would afford greater surface protection without changing the natural look of the stone.

Solution
QSS were specifically contracted as they had significant experience working with natural stone and the processes used would therefore be both sympathetic and appropriate. The process employed was geared to working with soft vulnerable surfaces such as stone although they can be used equally well on softer brickwork and paving.

Many other pieces of remedial work had previously been undertaken for Bedford Borough Council and QSS had therefore developed an enviable reputation for a speedy response, effective service and satisfactory outcomes.

The problem was entirely eradicated and then Qshield AG anti graffiti coating was applied to afford the protection required.

Benefits

• The grade 2 listed structure was returned to its original, undamaged condition with no 'ghosting' remaining
• The facility became resistant to further attack
• The speedy response demonstrated that graffiti was unacceptable in Bedford
• Qshield AG continues to deliver effective protection to this exceptional bridge

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Client: Oxford County Council Contractor: Isis Accord (previously Enterprise PLC)
Product: Qstone Date: Nov 2006

Problem
Unfortunately instead of promoting the best of what Oxford could offer, the High Street had become a disappointment to the County Council.

Previous attempts at sealing by other contractors on a 260m² area had been over applied leading to a very dark appearance. In addition it had become impossible to clean it satisfactorily and it was very slippery when moist. Cleaning costs had escalated markedly and chewing gum was a major issue.

Given the problems encountered there were real fears that the beautiful stone surface may have become irretrievably damaged. Excess jointing material had been historically employed during the surface construction and their was considerable evidence of residue staining.

Solution
QSS initially deep cleaned the entire area with high pressure and rotary cleaning equipment. This then highlighted localised areas for special treatment

• The excess jointing material on the surface was removed without degrading the IN SITU material. 35% strength hydrochoric acid was used
• The old sealers were removed with a combination of solvent detergents (neutralising agent) and modified rotary cleaners employing 150degree C steam at 2000rpm ensuring no damage to the affected paving
• When the surface was ready we applied Qstone surface impregnation

Benefits

• Gum resistance increased by over 60%
• Easier cleaning with costs cut by 50%
• Lower whole life cost of maintaining the surface
• Qstone provides a protected surface without looking like a treatment has been applied

Appearance of the whole area is no longer compromised by damaged areas. To hasten the final result we extended our capability so as to wash, dry and impregnate simultaneously on each shift. This is now the norm on all hard jointed paving protection projects.

“Our crews did a clean to the St. Ebbes area this week. I took the opportunity to speak with the Graffiti removal Team Leader asking what his thoughts were on the overall performance of the coating. His response confirmed that there was far less gum and on cleaning it just flew off with minimum effort. Needless to say we are all delighted.”

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Client: Oxford County Council Contractor: Isis Accord (previously Enterprise PLC)
Product: Qseal Date: Nov 2007 to Feb 2008

Problem
The bridge is at the heart of this county town and is seen as a highly prized feature. Removal of the graffiti was viewed as an absolute priority by the council and they were concerned as to the permanent damage that could ensue as a direct result of the removal process.

They then wanted to reduce the risk of a recurrence of the problem in the future by the application of an effective and appropriate treatment that would afford greater surface protection without changing the natural look of the stone.

Solution
QSS were specifically contracted as they had significant experience working with natural stone and the processes used would therefore be both sympathetic and appropriate. The process employed was geared to working with soft vulnerable surfaces such as stone although they can be used equally well on softer brickwork and paving.

Many other pieces of remedial work had previously been undertaken for Bedford Borough Council and QSS had therefore developed an enviable reputation for a speedy response, effective service and satisfactory outcomes.

The problem was entirely eradicated and then Qshield AG anti graffiti coating was applied to afford the protection required.

Benefits

• The grade 2 listed structure was returned to its original, undamaged condition with no 'ghosting' remaining
• The facility became resistant to further attack
• The speedy response demonstrated that graffiti was unacceptable in Bedford
• Qshield AG continues to deliver effective protection to this exceptional bridge

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Client/contractor: Oxford County Council
Product: QShield Date: March 2005

Problem
This was selected as a trial area for QSS to prove to Oxford City Council that QSEAL is an effective Gum reduction/removal product.

Paving is circa 12 years old and situated right outside OCC offices and provides a pedestrian link between two multistorey car parks and the city centre.

Paving was very dirty and had an average gum population of circa 35 pieces per m².

A lot of new paving is due to be laid in years to come and OCC needed to be sure that the QSEAL as recommended by Bedford BC met theirs and the County's expectations.

The deep cleaning had to be carried out at night with access for the public maintained throughout.

Solution

• Deep Clean all paving with rotary high pressure washing equipment
• Remove all existing chewing gum with very high temp steam equipment
• Apply QSEAL impregnation

Benefits

• Gum resistance 60% + balance etc.
• Easier cleaning
• Lower whole life cost
• Restored natural colours

The trial proved very successful and QSS were specified for further new paving protection by Oxford City & County Council.

“During a regular all purposes meeting with the City Council we were advised by them that the QSS sealer they had applied had worked really well, gum was easily removed and there was no discernible discolouration once the treatment had cured out to its natural matt non slip finish. As a result we have contracted QSS to seal the highly prestigious new Yorkstone paving that has been laid in Oxford High Street. The new paving extends in sections from the City Centre past Magdalen College and the Royal Botanical Gardens.”

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Client: Cornwall County Council Contractor: Mowlem PLC/Anzac Paving Ltd
Product: QShield Date: Feb 2006

Problem
The region's international airport had seen increased volumes of air traffic with much more envisaged in the future. Hence the addition of three new aircraft aprons adjacent to the Terminal building. In extreme operating conditions such as this any treatment applied to render the surface safe to operate MUST comply with MOD specification 035 (modified April 05), for sealing aircraft paving.

Only upon satisfactory completion and inspection of the work would the Airport receive their CAA licence to operate Aircraft within this new enlarged area.

Airports, situated as Newquay is are very exposed to sudden weather changes – often on an hourly basis. February ‘06 was a particularly cold month with sub zero temperatures and snow.

The contractor had to supervise the final pavement preparation prior to QSS applying the protective treatment selected so as to ensure that the joint sanding met with the strict guidelines laid down by the MOD.

Solution
QSS innovatively avoided any requirement for prior or post testing as QSS initially proved that the sealer application of 1 ltr/2.6m² exceeded the required joint sand penetration of 15 mm as specified by the MOD.

QSS liaised with Weatherquest – micro climatic forecasters – to identify the only 5 day suitable weather window prior to the release for operations, Weatherquest went on to provide 2 hourly warnings of temperature drops below 4c and any impending snow showers – one of which produced 75mm of snow in half an hour.

QSS liaised with the paving contractor and supervised the final sanding procedure to ensure it met with the MOD guidelines.

The project was completed to time and budget even in the weather conditions experienced.

Benefits

• The new aircraft paving did not have wait to be tested (random block pull out etc) by the MOD, as the evidence of the calibrated application and the validity of the product was sufficient.
• Newquay Airport received their CAA licence quicker than expected leading to a faster return on the investment for them.
• The CAA were impressed with QSS and highly complimentary of the approach taken by QSS to ensure that the work was completed in advance of the contracted end date.

QSS has a testimonial on the 'weatherquest' website, Its MD is, Jim Bacon the TV renowned highly experienced weather forecaster. His team are recognised in the area as providing a highly valued service to the civil aviation industry.

“We extended the apron area and we needed to comply with all the regulations both quickly and efficiently. Despite a great deal of weather related difficulty QSS delivered the treatment agreed to time and to budget. We were impressed.”

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Client/contractor: Argyle & Bute Council
Product: Qseal Date: 2007

Problem
The client was keen to secure its revised CAA license and to do this the whole area had to be sealed to MOD 35 to achieve the CAA sign off before commercial flights could begin.

Oban is very exposed and is one of the UK's highest rainfall areas. At least 3 days dry weather was required during November to seal the paving. 80% of the paving had been laid for over 5 months so detritus had filled up many of the chamfers.

Weatherquest identified the only realistic dry window which coincided with a Scottish bank holiday . Consequently final preparation of the paving by the contractor to include detritus removal and joint re-sanding did not get completed prior to our arrival. At the last minute, the client signaled a potential postponement as the site was not ready for QSS treatment as agreed in the contract.

Solution
QSS got the client to provide a tractor mounted rotating brush first thing saturday morning.

QSS prepared the paving, removed all joint detritus and ensured all chamfers were correctly sanded to spec. This took all day on a very wet saturday.

QSS rotary brushed the paving for the whole of a fortunately dry Sunday and by 4 pm the paving was finally ready to seal. The job was completed on time. The application rate was increased by 10% to counteract any over-damp sand.

Benefits

• Protection against effect of jet engines on block paving
• Airport was sealed to MOD spec 035 standards
• Calibrated application negated the need for CAA to test penetration depths
• When plane locator anchor rings were fitted later the average sealing penetration was confirmed at 20mm

Client was delighted and "impressed with the finish". They described the sealer as "ideal for the situation" and our work ethic as “second to none.” Client delighted to refer/recommend QSS for any other similar work.

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Client/contractor: The New Swindon Company
Products: Qstone & Qcide Date: June 2009

Problem
Swindon is committed to a major multi-phase town centre regeneration project. The town is determined to deliver an environment that is perceived by residents and visitors alike as being outstanding. With the level of investment across the whole project totaling £1billion, they needed to be confident that their objectives would continue to be met for many years to come.

QSS initially proved that its treatment to an earlier part of the wharf street renewal scheme had been highly effective in reducing gum adhesion. These findings were validated by the client. There were particular requirements that the natural Forest stone paving would be highly stain resistant and therefore easy to maintain and keep clean.

After experiencing material delays on a previous project due to quarry flooding, the client wanted buffer stocking of stone in place at the quarry. They were keen to determine whether pre-treatment of the stone once cut could be achieved thereby simplifying the construction work still further and reducing risk of further delays.

Solution
QSS formed a unique partnership with the Royal Forest Pennant stone quarry team to prepare and protect the stone at the quarry site with Qstone and then pack it in readiness for it to be called to site as necessary by the client.

Post installation, QSS washed the surface again to remove construction debris and then applied Qcide, its anti algae/moss/lichen biocide and slow release detergent treatment to maintain stone colour and natural vibrancy.

Benefits

• Paving joint material suitably protected to APEA (association of petroleum explosion authority) standards
• New Paving fully blended with the existing paving
• Extended paving protected to the regulatory standard thereby ensuring that the client was in a position to open the new facilities
• Extended surface life and dramatically improved surface protection

After the success of this project, we have undertaken several more for this client.

Nick Horton, Forest Pennant Stone

“Working with QSS to provide a truly unique pre-treated natural stone solution in support of the Swindon regeneration project as led by Nick Conder has been a pain free highly productive experience. We continue to work together on a variety of other projects.”

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Client: Aston Villa F.C. Contractor: Mansell Plc, Forest of Dean Pennant Stone Firm Ltd
Product: Qstone (pre-treatment) Date: June 2009

Problem
The new owners of the club are determined to create a ‘showpiece’ environment within Aston Villa Football Club.

They have elected to specify premium quality stone for this area of their facility. They recognise that the area will be vulnerable to heavy traffic and therefore needs protection.

The client needed a surface that could cope with high footfall to their recently upgraded suite. Reduced staining/gum adhesion coupled with ease of cleaning and high levels of surface protection.

Solution
A fast and efficient process for the delivery of the stone paving and its installation was required. The client signaled a preference towards pre-treatment the material so as to minimise site disturbance, therefore QSS provided the protection at the Forest Pennant quarry.

Forest Penant Stone delivered the required stone from its pre-treated stone stock on a just in time basis. Once laid QSS attended the site and washed all the newly laid paving for immediate handover.

Benefits

• Surface grip improved whilst making the surface easier to clean
• The paving is protected prior to installation which means far easier initial cleaning
• Impregnation is applied in a weather proof environment ensuring consistent product availability – one less thing to worry about
• Maintenance problems at the facility are kept to an absolute minimum

Early test result are very positive with the stone withstanding the traffic without difficulty.

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Client: Chevron Texaco Ltd Contractor: Stacey Construction (Mike Stacey Group)
Product: QSet Date: July 2008

Problem
The client required that the joints were sealed to APEA regulations to ensure no future risk of fuel spillage penetrating the pavement substrate.

The treatment had to prevent any risk of under paving contamination which could in extreme circumstances lead to a spark induced explosion.

This is an extremely busy 24 hour service station and disruption levels had to be minimised. Only a few relatively quiet hours overnight to treat the new paving prior to opening the fuel extensions at 6:00 am latest.

Solution
To ensure that the project was completed on time, QSS clearly specified the standard and specification of the paving finish required prior to sealing it with Qset.

QSS checked each island and then sealed it to specification, completing the work by 4:00 am. Fully calibrated application ensured correct joint sand penetration and pavement stabilisation.

Benefits

• Paving joint material suitably protected to APEA (association of petroleum explosion authority) standards
• New Paving fully blended with the existing paving
• Extended paving protected to the regulatory standard thereby ensuring that the client was in a position to open the new facilities
• Extended surface life and dramatically improved surface protection

After the success of this project, we have undertaken several more for this client.

“We cannot afford to take out our fuel dispensing islands at our forecourts for extended periods and yet we must comply with the APEA code of practice in all respects. QSS responded to the time pressures exceptionally by delivering the islands back into service well inside the deadlines set.”

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Client: Eagle One Ltd Contractor: Midas Construction Ltd
Product: QSeal Date: June 2009

Problem
Exmouth had recently upgraded the environment in this tourist focused area and the pace of surface deterioration had alarmed them.

There was great concern as to the salt water induced erosion of the blocks and even in extreme circumstances the loss of blocks due to the regularity of the English Channel winter storms. Unsightly efflorescence was already evident on much of the new surface. This is caused by the salts inside that bleed out of the block, amplified in this case by the seafront location.

The client in addition wanted to significantly reduce general staining and gum adhesion levels.

Finally there were considerable concerns as to the ongoing cleaning costs. Making the surface easier to clean and maintain was seen as a key factor for the client.

Solution
Qseal had already proved in another local project (8 years ago) that it could provide the
stabilisation required.

Our treatment was applied once the surface had been thoroughly cleaned and joints repaired where necessary.

The joint stabilisation and sealant application was tested and found to be to the claimed standard in all respects.

Benefits

• The sealed paving now mirrors this prestige development's requirements
• The paving is now sealed to reduce gum adhesion and ease cleaning
• QSS now provide an ongoing half-yearly check and report on the condition, stability and general performance of the paving

Exmouth local authority are now delighted with their new facility that until QSS’s intervention was turning into a real eyesore.

“Having invested heavily in the creation of the new facilities to see them deteriorating so alarmingly was a great concern. QSS’s timely intervention has now resolved the problem for us—we are delighted.”

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Client: The Royal Air Force Contractor: Tolly Paving / ACM Pavseel / QSS UK
Product: QSet (ACM Pavseel) Date: Original area 1994, Trial area 2004

Background
RAF Northolt is at the vanguard of our air force infrastructure. Military projects are regularly centred around the facility and in addition it provides air transportation to the Royal Family and other political and military dignitaries on a regular basis.

A very active facility and its performance is seen as highly important in all respects. The world regularly looks in on Northolt.

History
In 1994 63,000m² of main apron was treated in 1994 with ACM Pavseel. This formulation was developed and created by John Emery, at that time a highly renowned engineer and paving consultant. The predicted 5 year life material was designed specifically to stabilise the jointing material employed in block paving so as to fully comply with MOD FOD safety and resistance to Aircraft related liquid penetration requirements.

In 2004 some 10 years later John Emery designed a revolutionary interlocking block system and it was agreed that an 80m² area was to be converted to this new system so as to determine benefits and performance levels in service.

In September '04 the revised paving was laid by Tolly Paving. QSS applied the final joint
sand and then treated the area with QSET (ACM Pavseel).

The timing and the trial was seen as highly appropriate as initial signs of surface deterioration and localised sinkage were beginning to appear. The joint deterioration was expected as it had been in service for over 10 years.

Whilst on site in 2004 QSS tested the effectiveness of the 10-year old joint stabilisation material and found it to be showing clear signs of deterioration - unsurprising given the recommended life of the material used being 5 years.

Some 4 years later in October 2008 QSS and John Emery (now a retained technical consultant to QSS) were invited to view the reflective sinkage problems which were now evident across many parts of the facility.

In addition, the performance of the new interlocking block system laid in 2004 was to be reviewed and compared to the 1994 surface regarding any evidence of surface deterioration. In particular how the combination of the interlocking blocks and its related joint stabilisation was standing up to the reflective failure problem after 4 years of deliberately encouraged tougher than average in service usage.

Results
The 80m² trial area appeared to be in excellent condition with no evidence of surface failure. This was in direct contrast to the balance of the apron which continues to deteriorate at an ever accelerating rate.

To date minimal, short term repairs have been instituted but the risk of failure grows year by year with potentially alarming consequences.

Lessons to be learned

• The new block system works and should ideally be employed across the whole facility
• Despite being advised back in 1994 that the surface was only built to last un-maintained for 5 years no budgetary provision had been made to upgrade and retreat the apron. Instead it had been left largely untouched for 15 years and there is now considerable risk of surface failure
• A surface inspection programme should always be agreed at the time of the initial project being done so that problems can be dealt with at lowest cost and on a phased basis. The cost of complete surface replacement could now be in excess of £3 million and even a lift, repair and retreat programme would cost over £2m! Clearly a phased approach is required to recover the situation progressively
• Surfaces must be sold in with future maintenance needs in mind. New surfaces are not maintenance free, but if managed properly they are a cost effective and long life option
• These observations need to be recognised in all major, high traffic, safety oriented environments and QSS will continue to raise the profile of such issues

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Client/contractor: Hatters Fine Furnishings
Product: Qset Date: Jan 2004 and Feb 2009

Problem
Hatters is the county town’s premier furniture provider. In 2004, it was identified that the car park whilst quite new was already failing to reflect the high quality image that the client wished to convey.

There was evidence of erosion and loss of blocks pavers due to destabilised joint sand with unsightly weeds, moss and oil stains tarnishing the surface. The client was struggling to keep the area to an acceptable standard cost effectively.

Solution
Whole site was deep cleaned and brought back to new condition then resanded. Finally, QSet was applied to stabilise all the joint material and improve the protective nature of the finish.

The site has continued to be regularly monitored by QSS for over 5 years and the seal
treatment has proved highly effective, providing the stabilisation required along with a much higher standard of appearance with minimal cleaning investment.

Benefits

• The sealed paving continually mirrors this prestige business
• The paving as sealed continues to reduce gum adhesion/ease cleaning
• The joint stabilisation is still performing very well, showing no sign of degradation

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Client: Bedford Borough Council Contractor: Stacey Construction (Mike Stacey Group)
Product: Polycote 2 pack Date: September 2009

Problem
The standard manhole cover trays had become seriously damaged by vehicle weight and manoeuvring.

Many had sunk causing the paving to become completely destabilised and creating trip and block fragmentation problems with resulting damage to other property.

These trays needed to be repaired and the substrate upgraded to ensure no reoccurrence.

Solution
The treatment has been to remove the relevant trays in small batches (4 to 6 at a time), fitting steel chequer plate temporary covers to enable repairs to the trays, and the new jointing material to cure overnight.

The existing paving is removed from the cover and the sides and base are rotary wire brushed to remove all surplus material. Trays are inspected, re-welded and strengthened as necessary.

3-4 mm dried aggregate is mixed with Polycote heavy duty 2-pack resin and then this is laid in the base of the pre primed tray to form the support for the block paving elements.

The paving elements are suitably primed on each base and sides to ensure adhesion to the aggregate. The paving elements are then repositioned into the trays and they bond to the aggregate base.

Next the vacant joints are filled almost up to the level of the paving elements with Kiln dried sand. The 2 pack clear HD resin is then slowly applied until all the joint sand is saturated and left to cure. The trays are then relocated in the relevant manhole cover support frame.

Benefits

• This innovative process, when cured creates a fully bonded steel/aggregate/paving/joint sand sandwich structure which is much stronger and far more resilient than the original
• Areas under repair are constantly protected thereby avoiding costly area closure time
• The finish is now non slip and the original paving is reset to a matching level to ensure no further trip risks in this high traffic area