Sika A Towering Success In Portsmouth

Edited by the Buildingtalk editorial team Sep 8, 2003

Sika's Icoment 520 levelling mortar and SikaGard 550W, an elastic, anti carbonation, protective, decorative coating, are being used in the construction of Spinnaker Tower at Portsmouth Harbour.

The 165 metres high tower, which is the centrepiece of the Renaissance of Portsmouth Harbour project, is estimated to cost around 20 million pounds, and is being part funded by the Millennium Commission.

Spinnaker Tower, which is based on a maritime design complete with billowing sail, is being constructed by Mowlem Civil Engineers for Portsmouth City Council, and will have three public viewing platforms at different heights, overlooking Portsmouth Harbour and the Solent.

These will be reached by a panoramic lift running up the outside of one of two concrete shafts that form the core of the structure.

The external surface of the two shafts ( approximately 4,000 square metres), which have been built using slip form construction, are being rendered by Bierrum Structural Services Limited, using Sika Icoment 520, a cementitious mortar to level and correct any irregularities in the concrete surfaces.

This is then being over coated with SikaGard 550W elastic, a decorative, elastic anti-carbonation coating which is water based with excellent resistance to weathering and aging, to protect and improve the appearance of the shafts.

The system was selected because of its long term track record approaching 20 years, and a BBA certificate, stating that the coating will perform for a period of at least 15 years.

Due to be completed in August of next year, Spinnaker Tower, the tallest building in Portsmouth, will dominate the Harbour skyline, and provide a unique experience for both visitors and residents.