Assheton House


Assheton House is a live residential high-rise tower block located in Ashton-under-Lyne. As a multi-storey occupied building, maintaining the integrity of the external envelope was critical to protect residents. It was also required to preserve structural performance and extend the building’s lifespan.

Given the building’s height and occupied status, the project required careful planning, specialist access solutions, and strict health and safety controls throughout. That’s why they contacted us here at ACS Coatings.

The client required a comprehensive external refurbishment and commercial waterproofing package to safeguard the building fabric and prevent further deterioration.

The brief included urgent roof waterproofing works, protection of exposed decked areas, a full gutter overhaul, and extensive external decorations to window frames and rendered elevations.

In addition, because the building remained fully occupied throughout the programme, all works needed to be delivered with minimal disruption to residents. Of course, safe access was also required.

In a nutshell, the project required:

  • Installation of a high-performance roof waterproofing system
  • Waterproofing to external decking areas
  • Full commercial gutter refurbishment and drainage improvements
  • External decorations to window frames and rendered elevations
  • Full-height scaffold access to all elevations.

The goal was not only to resolve immediate waterproofing concerns but to future-proof the building against water ingress and weather-related damage.

ACS Coatings mobilised a dedicated site management team supported by a multi-trade workforce, with 8 to 12 operatives on site at any one time. This included specialist waterproofing technicians and access-trained decorators experienced in high-rise building refurbishment.

Then, we got to work, which included:

Roof Waterproofing System

We installed a robust commercial roof waterproofing system designed to create a seamless, protective membrane across vulnerable roof areas. Surface preparation was carried out thoroughly to ensure long-term adhesion and performance.

The new system provides durable protection against heavy rainfall, standing water, and freeze-thaw cycles, all of which are common in the UK.

Waterproofing to External Decking Areas

External decked areas were fully treated and sealed to prevent water penetration into the underlying structure.

Due to the height and exposure of the building, weather sensitivity was carefully managed, with works phased to suit conditions and guarantee the very best curing.

Full Gutter Overhaul & Drainage Improvements

The existing guttering system was showing signs of deterioration and inefficiency. Our team carried out a comprehensive gutter refurbishment, improving drainage flow and reducing the risk of overflow and façade staining.

Effective drainage is critical for high-rise buildings, where blocked or failing gutters can lead to significant water ingress issues over time.

External Decorations to Window Frames & Rendered Elevations

To complete the building envelope refurbishment, we carried out extensive external decorations across all elevations. This included preparation, repairs, and protective coatings to window frames and rendered surfaces.

The result was not only enhanced weather protection but a significantly improved external appearance, reinforcing the building’s overall aesthetic and long-term durability.

Delivering high-rise external refurbishment works on a live residential tower block presents unique challenges. These include:

Live Residential Environment

With residents occupying the building, communication was critical. We maintained proactive liaison with the client team and residents, providing clear updates and scheduling information.

Noise levels were carefully managed, too, and access routes were maintained safely at all times to protect vulnerable occupants.

Full-Height Scaffold & Access Planning

A full-height scaffold system was erected to provide safe access to all elevations. Phased access planning ensured works progressed efficiently without restricting essential building entry points.

Working at height required strict adherence to safety protocols and daily supervision by our experienced site management team.

Weather Sensitivity & Programming

Waterproofing and external coatings at height are highly weather-dependent. Our team carefully monitored conditions to maintain programme momentum while making sure the correct application standards were upheld.

Despite these challenges, the project was completed ahead of schedule, with additional client-instructed works incorporated during the contract period.

Assheton House now benefits from a fully protected external envelope.

The roof and decked areas are secured with high-performance waterproofing systems. The refurbished guttering ensures efficient drainage, reducing long-term risk of water damage. Window frames and rendered elevations have been revitalised, delivering a clean and durable finish across the entire building.

Importantly, all works were delivered in a live residential environment without impacting residents’ day-to-day routines.

Completing the project ahead of schedule further demonstrated ACS Coatings’ ability to deliver complex, high-rise refurbishment projects efficiently and professionally.

Client Feedback

Particular praise was given for:

  • Clear communication throughout
  • Cleanliness and site organisation
  • Safe management of works at height
  • Minimal disruption to residents.

This feedback reflects our commitment to delivering commercial and residential refurbishment projects with professionalism and care.