Sika Tanking Waterproofing Well Arch

We were delighted to be chosen by Mansell and English Heritage to undertake the waterproofing of the vaults of the historic Wellington Arch.

Prominently situated at Hyde Park Corner, the building is a spectacular landmark sight for Londoners and visitors alike. Originally commissioned by King George IV as a grand entrance to Buckingham Palace, it was completed in 1830.

When English Heritage decided to open the arch for visitors, they soon realised they would require the space from all three floors, including the underground vaults, in order to display all the exhibits relating it’s history.

The vaults however, were suffering from damp ingress, see picture left. In order to utilise them, the decision was therefore taken to install a cementitious waterproof system.

As the picture indicates, the vault walls and floor were both flaking and mouldy - the corrosive effect of 175 years of damp ingress. Therefore our first task was to take the masonry back to sound structure. This was achieved by the use of Bush Hammer to the walls and Scrabbler to the floors. This provided the essential keying, required in order for the cementitious waterproofing system to be successful.

The next stage is illustrated in the picture below left, showing our Eamonn applying the Spritzer first coat. The pictures right show the and Trowel second and third coats being applied.

The building’s open for visitors and you can take a lift to the balconies below the Angel of Peace descending on a Chariot of War. It’s the largest bronze sculpture in Europe. When you’re next in London, why not pop in. You’ll discover it was once London's smallest Police Station and at the same time have the opportunity to inspect our work !