Churchfield Reservoir, Cork

Leaks had been detected within the structure, prompting the need for a full internal stabilisation works. As a vital reservoir supplying potable water to the city, the comprehensive refurbishment needed to ensure compatibility with drinking water regulations, deliver long lasting waterproofing performance, and allow for fast application and curing to keep the project on schedule.

Two different Sika systems, that are both approved for use in contact with drinking water, were selected to ensure the structure remained safe for water storage:

SikaTop®-581 Seal, a cementitious waterproofing slurry with DWI approval, was applied across 5,000m² of internal concrete surfaces. Its spray application capability made it ideal for rapid, consistent coverage over large areas.

Sikadur® Combiflex SG System was installed on 550 metres of internal expansion joints. This high-performance joint sealing system with DWI and WRAS approval provides excellent adhesion and flexibility and can accommodate both movement and water pressure for long-term durability.

Beton Construction Services Ltd were appointed as the specialist contractor for the application of SikaTop®-581 Seal and the Sikadur® Combiflex SG System. With extensive experience in waterproofing and coating systems, Beton Construction Services Ltd were well positioned to meet the project’s strict technical demands. Their expertise included working at height from MEWPs and mobile scaffolding, as well as the use of a mortar spraying machine to ensure efficient application.

In addition to their technical capabilities, Beton Construction Services Ltd provided full professional indemnity insurance, and all required ancillary certification, giving the client confidence in the quality and compliance of the works.

SikaTop®-581 Seal was spray applied to maximise efficiency, covering large surface areas quickly and providing consistent, durable waterproofing. Its fast-curing properties allowed for a very fast return-to-service, helping keep the project on schedule. Sikadur® Combiflex SG was expertly applied to all internal joints, sealing areas prone to movement and preventing water egress through its high-performance tape and epoxy bonding adhesive.

The restoration of Churchfield Reservoir ensured the long-term integrity of one of Cork’s most important water infrastructure assets. The project was delivered efficiently and safely using certified Sika systems that met strict drinking water standards. The combination of SikaTop®-581 Seal and Sikadur® Combiflex SG delivered a watertight, compliant and durable solution that safeguards Cork’s water supply while preserving a well-known part of the city's skyline.