Poolbeg Generation Station, Dublin

The primary goal of the project was to preserve the Poolbeg chimneys as lasting visual and cultural landmarks. The towers required extensive structural repairs and protective coatings to restore their integrity and appearance.

The project presented a number of challenges. Working at over 200 metres in height required the expertise of specialist contractors, Zenith, as well as comprehensive safety planning. Ireland’s unpredictable weather made painting and repairs at height particularly complex, requiring the project to be delivered in two phases, over two summers. In addition, due to the significant effort involved in accessing the towers, products had to meet a minimum 10-year performance requirement.

Poolbeg still remains a key energy site for the ESB, with current facilities including a gas power plant and battery storage, along with future plans to make it a hub for renewable energy sources, including green hydrogen and offshore wind.

The highly experienced team from Zenith carried out a full programme of structural repair and surface protection. Over 7,000 holes were filled per chimney, and localised spalling and crack repairs were completed throughout both stacks. All surfaces were then jet-washed and primed for painting.

Structural damage was repaired using Sika MonoTop®-1010 and Sika MonoTop®-4012 to reinstate the integrity of the concrete. Voids and cavities were filled using SikaBoom®-580 and Sika MonoTop®-4012 subsequently. Finally, the iconic red and white paint was restored using Sikagard®-5500, a high performance protective coating designed for resistance against aggressive atmospheric influences.

Sikagard®-706 Thixo, a water repellent, hydrophobic impregnation, was applied to provide additional moisture protection and extend durability. In total, 90 tubs of red paint and 74 tubs of white paint were used, along with 160 tubs of Sikagard®-706 Thixo ensuring a long-lasting and uniform finish across both towers.

Sika products were chosen for their long-term durability, proven performance and their compatibility across the repair and coating system. The materials specified met the client’s 10-year minimum service life requirement and were suitable for application in challenging site conditions. Sika’s track record in structural preservation and infrastructure repair, along with technical support throughout the project, further contributed to the successful delivery of the works.

The refurbishment of the Poolbeg chimneys represents a major step in preserving one of Dublin’s most recognisable structures that symbolises the city’s industrial past. The use of Sika’s high-performance repair and protection systems has ensured that the chimneys are both structurally sound and visually restored, ready to withstand the city’s coastal climate for years to come.