What's included in the refurbishment of the Fernhill Building
The refurbishment includes fixing and repairing structural cracking and external brickwork, as well as installing a new roof over the main building. But the most noticeable change will be the replacement of the metal awning, complete with structural, drainage, and electrical lighting elements.
Of course, it's not just about looks. The refurbishment also includes fitting out the internal rooms, including home and away change rooms, a referees room, and a kiosk. These upgrades will make the Fernhill Soccer Club more comfortable and convenient for players and spectators alike.
The Coating System Used on Galvanised Steel Columns and Beams
As part of the refurbishment project at the Fernhill Soccer Club, damaged parts of the existing galvanised steel of the awning will be spot repaired using Dulux® Zincanode® 202. After sandblasting or mechanically cleaning the surface to repair the damaged galvanized steel beneath the previously deteriorated paintwork, Zincanode 202 is applied. This is an important step in the refurbishment process, as it ensures that any areas of the steel that have been damaged or corroded are repaired and protected against further corrosion.
“The coating system being used is specifically designed to provide protection against corrosion in a marine environment. The standard used to determine the level of protection required is AS/NZS 2312.1:2014 Category C5-M, which stands for very high marine corrosivity." explains Greg Scott, Dulux® Protective Coatings Trade Specialist. “This means that the coating system must be able to withstand the harsh conditions of a marine environment, including exposure to saltwater, salt spray, and high humidity.”
The coating system being used is a four-coat system that involves the application of:
1st coat: Dulux® Zincanode® 202 @ 50-microns (µm) DFT
2nd coat: Dulux® Durebild® STE GF @ 200-microns (µm) DFT
3rd coat: Dulux® Durebild® STE GF @ 200-microns (µm) DFT
Topcoat: Dulux® Weathermax® HBR @ 75-microns (µm) DFT
Zincanode 202, is a zinc-rich epoxy primer that provides excellent corrosion protection for steel. It acts as a sacrificial layer, corroding preferentially to the steel substrate and protecting it from corrosion. This is especially important in an area with very high marine corrosivity, like Towradgi, where the salty air and water can accelerate the corrosion process.
Durebild STE GF, are high-build epoxy coatings that provide a durable barrier against corrosion, abrasion, and chemical attack. They are applied twice to ensure adequate film thickness and provide additional protection against the harsh marine environment.
Finally, the topcoat, Weathermax HBR, is a high-build, high-performance acrylic coating that provides excellent UV resistance, weatherability, and colour retention. It is specifically designed for use in harsh marine environments and provides long-lasting protection against fading, chalking, and cracking.
Soccer Off-Season: Refurbishment Works to Start in October
The refurbishment works will take place during the soccer off-season, starting in October. This means that players and spectators can look forward to a fresh and improved Fernhill Soccer Club when the new season starts.
If you need high-quality coatings for your next project, our technical experts at Dulux Protective Coatings can help. We offer tailored coatings specifications and have experience in a wide range of applications. Contact us to discuss how we can assist you in achieving the best outcome for your project.
