REFURBISHMENT

At Structura UK Ltd, we understand that the long-term performance, appearance and safety of glazed façades, windows, doors and curtain walling systems are essential to the value and functionality of any commercial building. Refurbishment is about prolonging the life of existing building envelope elements, restoring performance and appearance, and avoiding unnecessary replacement costs.

 

We offer a comprehensive range of refurbishment services tailored to commercial, institutional and property owner needs. Our works help buildings achieve or exceed their original design life through expert refurbishment, planned maintenance, glazing repair, gasket replacement, surface restoration and specialised system overhaul programmes.

What Is Refurbishment?

Refurbishment is the process of repairing, upgrading and renewing building components so that they perform reliably, safely and efficiently throughout their service life. Rather than replacing complete systems, refurbishment focuses on correcting defects, renewing weather seals, restoring visual quality and enhancing performance to avoid premature deterioration.

 

At Structura, our refurbishment services are delivered by highly skilled teams with decades of experience in glazing system maintenance, aluminium and steel repair, and complex façade project execution. This includes window and door refurbishment, glass polishing, on-site spraying and specialist system repairs.

Our Refurbishment Services

Our refurbishment offering covers several specialist services:

 

Window & Door Refurbishment

We carry out remedial works to existing windows and doors, addressing issues such as degraded seals, corroded frames and failed weatherproofing. Our services include re-spraying aluminium and steel components to restore aesthetic quality and protect against corrosion.

 

Glass Polishing & Refurbishment

Glass surfaces can lose clarity, suffer blemishes or degrade due to environmental exposure. Our glass polishing and refurbishment service restores original quality without the need for full replacement, saving cost and reducing waste.

 

On-Site Paint Spraying

On-site spraying of painted elements such as aluminium frames provides a renewed finish and improved durability. This process is especially beneficial for buildings in urban environments where pollutants accelerate degradation.

 

Astrawall System Refurbishment

Structura holds the UK licence for Astrawall system refurbishment, enabling us to fully refurbish these specific curtain wall systems by replacing original neoprene gaskets with modern silicone alternatives. We retain original manufacturing data and parts to ensure a precise overhaul.

 

Planned Maintenance Programmes

Beyond individual remediation tasks, we develop planned maintenance programmes tailored to the lifecycle needs of façades and glazing systems. These programmes help building owners manage long-term performance with regular inspection and proactive intervention.

How It Works

Our refurbishment process is structured, transparent and designed to fit seamlessly with your operational needs. The following steps outline how we deliver refurbishment projects:

1. Initial Consultation & Site Survey
We begin with a detailed site survey and consultation to understand the condition of existing glazing, façade interfaces and ancillary components. Surveys include performance analysis, defect identification and risk assessment.

 

2. Performance Evaluation & Scope Definition
Using survey data, we evaluate existing performance against industry standards and client requirements. We define the scope of works, prioritising interventions that deliver optimal performance and cost-effectiveness.

 

3. Proposal & Programme Development
We prepare a detailed proposal, including specifications, materials, timelines and cost estimates. Our team plans works around operational constraints to minimise disruption.

 

4. Approved Works & Mobilisation
Once approved, our project team mobilises resources, secures necessary permits, and coordinates logistics including scaffolding, access platforms and health & safety protocols.
5. Refurbishment Execution
Refurbishment works are executed by experienced technicians using industry-proven methods and quality-assured materials. Activities include gasket replacement, polishing, spraying, welding, sealing and systems adjustment.

 

6. Testing, Quality Assurance & Handover
Completed works undergo rigorous quality assurance including leak testing, performance verification and visual inspections. Documentation and warranties are provided at handover.

 

7. Aftercare & Maintenance Support
We remain available for aftercare support, ongoing maintenance planning and future performance monitoring to ensure longevity and reliability.

Why Choose Structura for Refurbishment?

When considering refurbishment for commercial façades and glazed systems, choosing the right partner is crucial. Structura stands apart for several reasons:

 

Depth of Experience

With over 35 years delivering glazing, façade and refurbishment works across the UK and Ireland, we combine heritage expertise with modern methods to deliver reliable, practical outcomes.

 

Specialist Accreditation & Standards

We have earned industry certifications that reflect our commitment to quality, safety and environmental performance. ISO-accredited systems and CWCT membership ensure work adheres to recognised benchmarks.

 

Tailored Solutions, Not One-Size-Fits-All

We don’t offer standardist fixes. Each refurbishment project is tailored based on existing conditions, building use, environmental exposure and client priorities, ensuring interventions align with lifecycle goals.

 

In-House Knowledge & Skills

Our teams include skilled façade technicians, site supervisors and refurbishment specialists with extensive hands-on experience. Many projects involve complex access challenges, tight programmes and bespoke requirements.

 

End-to-End Project Management

From initial survey to final handover, structuring, planning and execution are handled in-house. Clients have a single point of contact throughout the project.

Specifications & Standards

We adhere to industry best practice and certified standards to ensure consistent, high-quality refurbishment outcomes. Materials and finishes specified within refurbishment works are selected for durability, compatibility with existing systems and long-term performance. All coatings, sealants and gaskets conform to manufacturer standards and relevant British or European performance criteria:

ISO 9001 Quality Management System

Ensuring controlled quality delivery.


ISO 14001 Environmental Management System

Ensuring responsible environmental performance.

OHSAS 18001 Health & Safety Management

Ensuring safe working methodologies.


CWCT Technical Guidance

Aligning work with recognised façade performance protocols.

Typical Project Timeline

Note: Actual timelines vary based on site conditions, access constraints and scope. Projects involving listed buildings or complex access may require extended planning and co-ordination with third parties. 

Stage

Initial site assessment & survey
Proposal, specification & approval
Mobilisation & procurement
On-site refurbishment works
Quality assurance & handover
Commissioning & documentation

Duration

1–2 weeks
1–3 weeks
1–2 weeks
4–12+ weeks
1 week
1 week

As London-based refurbishment specialists, Structura supports commercial and residential property owners across Greater London and throughout the UK with compliant façade, glazing and external envelope upgrade solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between refurbishment and replacement?

Refurbishment focuses on repairing and upgrading existing components to extend their life, whereas replacement involves removing and installing entirely new systems.

How do you assess whether refurbishment is right for my building?

We conduct a detailed on-site survey evaluating structural integrity, glazing performance, weather resistance and material condition to determine the most cost-effective approach.

Can refurbishment improve energy efficiency?

Yes. Renewed gaskets, improved seals and refurbished glazing can reduce drafts and improve thermal performance.

Do you work on listed or heritage buildings?

Yes, we have experience refurbishing façades and glazing on listed and heritage properties, executing works with sensitivity to historic fabric.

How long does a refurbishment project usually take?

Typical timelines range from 6 weeks to several months depending on the scale and complexity of works.

Is scaffolding always required?

Not always. Access requirements are determined during the survey phase and may use alternative access solutions where appropriate.

Are warranties provided for refurbishment works?

Yes, all works are covered by appropriate workmanship and material warranties as agreed within the contract.

The works were undertaken over a 26 week period and required careful and concurrent working with the internal refurbishment contractor. The final product is something to be proud of and I would not hesitate to recommend Structura to manage and deliver this type of project.

Chris Twigg, Hammonds Consulting