Structura UK specialises in Astrawall refurbishment, the expert renewal and restoration of existing Astrawall curtain wall systems across commercial, institutional and landmark buildings. As the only UK company licensed to fully refurbish failed Astrawall facades, we replace original neoprene gaskets with upgraded silicone alternatives, restoring weather-tight integrity, performance and long-term resilience.
Astrawall systems, widely installed in the UK from the 1970s through to the early 2000s, often suffer gasket deterioration or performance decline over time. Rather than full system replacement, our refurbishment process offers a cost-effective, sustainable solution that extends façade life, improves energy performance and minimises disruption to ongoing building use.
Why Astrawall Refurbishment Matters
Over time, gasket materials in curtain wall systems can degrade due to weathering, UV exposure, pollution and thermal movement. This can lead to water ingress, reduced thermal performance and compromised seal integrity. Refurbishing Astrawall not only resolves these issues but also enhances the building envelope’s durability and ongoing compliance with modern façade performance expectations.
How it Works
1. Initial Survey & Diagnosis
Our experienced façade engineers conduct a detailed site survey, including curtain wall inspection, leak investigation and material condition assessment. We determine the extent of gasket failure and identify any secondary issues requiring attention.
Our experienced façade engineers conduct a detailed site survey, including curtain wall inspection, leak investigation and material condition assessment. We determine the extent of gasket failure and identify any secondary issues requiring attention.
2. Performance Assessment & Specification Development
We produce a refurbishment specification tailored to your building’s façade type, weather conditions and performance goals. This includes gasket selection (silicone replacement), joint detailing and sealing strategy.
We produce a refurbishment specification tailored to your building’s façade type, weather conditions and performance goals. This includes gasket selection (silicone replacement), joint detailing and sealing strategy.
3. Gasket Removal & Preparation
Original neoprene gaskets are carefully removed. All glazing and surrounding materials are protected during this process to ensure no damage occurs to frames, glass or adjacent façade elements.
Original neoprene gaskets are carefully removed. All glazing and surrounding materials are protected during this process to ensure no damage occurs to frames, glass or adjacent façade elements.
4. Replacement With Upgraded Silicone Gaskets
High-performance silicone gaskets, selected for longevity, enhanced weather resistance and improved flexibility, are precisely fitted into the system. Silicone delivers superior service life compared to traditional neoprene alternatives.
High-performance silicone gaskets, selected for longevity, enhanced weather resistance and improved flexibility, are precisely fitted into the system. Silicone delivers superior service life compared to traditional neoprene alternatives.
5. Weatherproofing & Performance Sealing
Critical sealing interfaces, joints and penetrations are sealed using industry-approved materials and techniques to achieve weatherproof continuity and maximise long-term integrity.
Critical sealing interfaces, joints and penetrations are sealed using industry-approved materials and techniques to achieve weatherproof continuity and maximise long-term integrity.
6. Testing & Quality Verification
Post-installation, we conduct water penetration and air tightness tests in accordance with CWCT and relevant standards to confirm performance. This ensures refurbishment meets stringent quality requirements.
Post-installation, we conduct water penetration and air tightness tests in accordance with CWCT and relevant standards to confirm performance. This ensures refurbishment meets stringent quality requirements.
7. Project Handover & Documentation
Upon completion, the refurbishment is quality-checked and documented. Clients receive full records, warranty details and maintenance recommendations to support ongoing performance.
Upon completion, the refurbishment is quality-checked and documented. Clients receive full records, warranty details and maintenance recommendations to support ongoing performance.
Why Choose Structura UK for Astrawall Refurbishment?
We bring deep technical expertise, licensed capability and decades of façade engineering experience to every Astrawall project:
UK’s Exclusive Astrawall Refurbishment Licence
Structura UK holds the official licence and original extrusion dies, giving us unmatched access to factory-spec components.
Extensive Historical Knowledge
We maintain original ‘as built’ details and elevation drawings for most Astrawall installations, enabling accurate refurbishment planning.
Technical Expertise in Glazed Façades
With over 35 years of specialist practice in curtain walls, glazing and façade systems, our team applies rigorous engineering standards to every project.
In-House Project Management
From initial survey to final handover, we manage all refurbishment phases, coordinating logistics, subcontractors and quality control to minimise disruption.
Strict Quality, Safety & Environmental Standards
Structura UK is triple ISO certified (ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001), demonstrating commitment to quality management, environmental stewardship and safe working practices.
Proven Track Record
We have delivered successful refurbishments for commercial, industrial and institutional clients throughout the UK.
Specifications & Standards
Technical & Performance
CWCT Technical Standards
Water penetration and air performance testing are carried out to CWCT guidelines to ensure robust weatherproof performance.
British & European Standards
Materials and workmanship comply with applicable BS EN standards for curtain walling, sealants, gaskets and façade systems.
Warranty & Maintenance Documentation
Upon completion, clients receive detailed project and performance documentation with recommended long-term maintenance programmes.
Typical Project Timeline
Note: Timelines vary by project size, system type, and site access. Complex or phased installations on occupied buildings may take longer.
Stage
Site Survey, Testing & Design Specification
Procurement of Materials & Mobilisation Planning
On-site Gasket Removal & Replacement Work
Final Performance Testing & Handover
Duration
Week 1-2
Week 3-4
Week 5-12
Week 13
As London-based Astrawall refurbishment specialists, Structura supports property owners and managing agents across Greater London and throughout the UK with compliant system upgrades, performance improvements and façade remediation works.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Astrawall refurbishment?
Astrawall refurbishment is the process of renewing the sealing components, primarily gaskets, within an existing Astrawall curtain wall system to restore weather resistance, performance and structural integrity.
Why replace neoprene gaskets with silicone?
Silicone gaskets offer enhanced durability, UV resistance and flexibility compared with older neoprene products, resulting in a longer service life and superior performance.
Is Astrawall refurbishment better than a full replacement?
In many cases, refurbishment is more cost-effective, quicker and less disruptive than full system replacement while still delivering equivalent performance improvements.
How long does a typical refurbishment last?
With high-quality silicone gaskets and proper sealing, a refurbished system can achieve many years of reliable performance; exact lifespan depends on environmental conditions and maintenance practices.
Can refurbishment be carried out on occupied buildings?
Yes. With careful planning and phasing, refurbishment work can often be completed without significant impact on building occupants.
Do you provide performance testing upon completion?
Yes. We perform water penetration and air tightness tests in line with CWCT procedures to verify outcomes.
What other services relate to Astrawall refurbishment?
We also provide related façade services, including window & door refurbishment, glass polishing & refurbishment and planned maintenance to ensure whole-building performance.
