MJ Engineering Projects served as superintendent and adviser on remedial works for an eight-storey, fifty-unit apartment building in Wollstonecraft. The concrete-frame, brick-infill structure suffered from water penetration, window deterioration, roof-membrane failure, concrete spalling and non-compliant balustrades. Our client required a programme that would eliminate these faults, align the building with current safety regulations and allow residents to remain in their homes throughout the works.
Project background
A building-condition survey used hammer sounding, cover-metre scans and moisture mapping to pinpoint three principal problems: ineffective window sills causing wind-driven rain ingress, an aged roof membrane that no longer resisted ponding water, and chloride-induced corrosion leading to concrete spalling. The inspection findings were handed to accredited design practitioners, who produced a remedial works specification that met National Construction Code (NCC) requirements. A selective tender process appointed a specialist contractor, while MJ Engineering Projects supervised quality and progress.
Scope of works
- Roof waterproofing membrane replacement
- Installation of a new podium waterproof membrane
- Repair of concrete spalling
- Replacement of windows and doors
- Façade repainting
- Removal and replacement of balustrades
- Removal and replacement of balcony tiles
- Installation of new flashings
- Installation of a new garbage enclosure
Key challenges and solutions
Roof-membrane failure
The existing roof covering had reached the end of its service life, allowing leaks into top-floor ceilings. Works began with a staged strip and replace sequence: half the roof remained covered while the other half received a torch-bonded sheet membrane. This approach kept water out during Sydney’s late-autumn showers and avoided full building exposure.
Window and door deterioration
Original aluminium frames had perished gaskets and distorted sills. New powder-coated units with integral upstands were installed from swinging stages. Each opening was tested with a calibrated hose to confirm water resistance before trim installation, ensuring long-term watertightness.
Concrete spalling
Chloride contamination caused delamination at balcony edges and column corners. The remedial works crew removed loose concrete, treated steel reinforcement with alkaline passivator and reinstated cover using polymer-modified mortar. After curing, a breathable façade coating provided a uniform finish.
Balustrade non-compliance
Glass rails lacked the safety markings and load capacity now required under the NCC. All panels were removed and replaced by laminated-glass systems that satisfy load requirements. Stainless anchor plates were fixed above the new membrane plane, and folded flashings divert water away from penetrations.
Balcony substrate renewal
Leaking balconies and damaged ceilings below were rectified as follows; Demolished the existing toppings, applied a flexible sheet membrane, created new falls with a sand-cement screed and laid porcelain tiles with slip-resistant glazing. Flood testing confirmed no leakage before balconies reopened.
Conclusion
The Wollstonecraft remedial works programme restored watertightness, structural durability and compliant safety elements while residents remained on site. Roof and podium membranes now meet current performance standards, windows and doors resist wind-driven rain, concrete spalls are fully repaired and balustrades satisfy modern impact loads. Fresh façade coatings unify the building’s appearance, new flashings protect cavity interfaces, and the upgraded waste enclosure improves day-to-day amenity.
MJ Engineering Projects draws on more than twenty-five years of remedial works expertise in Sydney apartment buildings. Explore additional case studies on our blog or contact the remedial works team for guidance on concrete repair, waterproofing or façade renewal.
