The challenge
Triflex were contacted by Joshua Chalke of the Borough of Poole to provide a project specification for the renovation of the internal car park decks and connecting ramps at the Dolphin Shopping Centre car park in Poole, Dorset. This seven-storey car park provides over 1,400 undercover parking spaces, catering for the 11 million visitors per year that visit the hundreds of retail, dining and leisure stores.
Triflex first visited the site in February 2017 to carry out testing to all seven levels of the car park. The car park structure is largely built from reinforced concrete, with cast in situ and suspended reinforced concrete decks. During the site visit it became apparent that the car park had previously received repair works to the ground bearing levels, with significant cracking visible.
The Triflex Technical Team carry out testing to ensure that the best possible solution is being provided for the project. In this case it was necessary to conduct strength tests, to identify the cohesive strength of the substrate; allowing the Technical Team to determine the level preparation and requirement for priming.
The solution
Triflex DeckCoat with a ramp 0.4-1.2mm Quartz were specified due to being heavy duty, durable systems, which are ideally suited for overlay of existing internal decks and ramps. The 0.4–1.2mm Quartz provides an antiskid finish, minimising the risks of slips and skidding.
With the car park receiving large amounts of traffic the solution would need to provide exceptional tensile strength and long-term resistance to regular and unforeseen movement. Thankfully, Triflex DeckCoat meets and exceeds these demands with ease.
Working alongside our Triflex Authorised Contractor Concrete Repairs Limited (CRL) works commenced in July. However, before installation of the Triflex systems could begin CRL undertook significant preparation works to the existing decks and ramps including planing enclosed shot blasting. All preinstallation works were conducted to ensure that the best possible bond to the existing substrate was achieved, allowing for a seamless application.
The project was completed with an array of Triflex Cryl finish colours to all levels providing users with simple location identification and a user-friendly experience. Finally, Triflex line markings were installed providing lasting markings to the bays and wayfinding elements. All works were ultimately completed on time and to specification.
