Safeguard Stormdry Case Study: 1940s Pillbox on Ferring Beach

Safeguard‘s Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream is well-known for keeping houses dry and free of penetrating damp, but did you know it can protect buildings of historical importance too? 

In the Summer of 1940, amidst the turmoil of World War II, a Type 26 pillbox was built on Ferring seafront in West Sussex. Designed to hold back an invasion, this robust concrete structure has withstood a relentless assault of seawater, wind and rain for over 80 years

When the Ferring History Group and Ferring Conservation Group gained access to the pillbox in 2023, they contacted the Safeguard Technical Team for a potential waterproofing treatment to stop further damage and help the damp structure dry out.

The Challenge

The pillbox showed significant signs of wear and tear after decades of weather exposure. Salt deposits were found on the sea-facing side from constant saltwater spray. The render was cracked in places and parts of the pebbledash finish had fallen away. Inside the pillbox itself, the team discovered damp and rotten timber as well as condensation on the ceiling.

The work group specified that any waterproofing treatment must be breathable to facilitate the drying out of the interior and colourless to preserve the pillbox’s unique aesthetic.

The Lab Investigation

In October 2023, small test patches of Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream were applied to the south and west walls of the pillbox as well as the roof. The Safeguard Technical Team carried out a visual inspection in April this year to confirm that the cured finish was completely invisible. A Stormdry Gauge test was carried out to confirm waterproofing performance.

The Safeguard R&D Laboratory also conducted in-depth analysis to confirm that Stormdry Cream was the best treatment for the job. First, a small render sample was taken from the pillbox to the lab. A scientist applied SoluGuard Multi-Surface Biocide to the sample, cleaned it and left it to dry. The sample was then split into two. One part was treated with Stormdry Protection Cream, while the other was left untreated. Both were submerged in water to test absorption levels.

The test found that the treated sample successfully stopped water absorption and cured to a clear finish, confirming Stormdry’s effectiveness and suitability for the project.

The Stormdry Solution

To prepare the surface for Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream, the team:

– applied SoluGuard Multi-Surface Biocide to clean away the years of grime and biological growth
– filled large cracks on the surface with repair mortar

In July, a team of four spent less than two hours coating the whole 48.5m² exterior with the one necessary coat of Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream. Stormdry also bridged hairline cracks on the pillbox surface.

Now this important piece of British history can be enjoyed by future generations, shielded from the harsh coastal environment.

Read the full case study here and check out the case study video

Contact:

Safeguard Europe,
Redkiln Close,
Horsham,
West Sussex,
United Kingdom,
RH13 5QL

Phone: 01403 210204
Fax: 01403 217529

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