The facade of a building is the first thing that visitors, customers and users see – and is therefore the calling card of a building. In the case of the building on the Zinkwerf, this appearance had been severely affected over the years. Red plastic facade panels had visibly faded due to UV radiation and pollution, and the black window frames looked dull and worn. The facade left a tired impression, while the building was still in excellent technical condition.
In order to resolve this contrast between appearance and quality without major renovation or replacement, a smart, sustainable renovation solution was chosen: the use of Multi Coat for the sheet materials and 2C Colour Coat in RAL 9005 for the window frames. This approach was expertly carried out by Ray Totaal Service, specialist in surface restoration and facade conservation.
Objective: restore appearance without demolition
The main objective of the facade renovation was:
- Restore the original color of the facade panels (color restoration)
- Provide the window frames with a durable, even and protective layer
- Improve the overall appearance of the building
- Invest in the preservation of materials instead of replacement
- Make the building representative for users and visitors again
- Realise a long-term result with minimal maintenance
Technical approach and products
Step 1: Inspection and pretreatment
The facade was carefully inspected for adhesion, damage and contamination. The surfaces were then intensively cleaned and, where necessary, lightly roughened so that the new layers could adhere optimally.
Step 2: Application of Multi Coat on red plastic sheets
Multi Coat has been specially developed for use on weathered plastic and sheet material. This colour-enhancing and protective layer:
- Saturates dried-out pigments and restores original colour intensity
- Forms a transparent protective layer that repels water, dirt and UV
- Has a self-healing capacity in the event of minor damage
- Retains the original surface – no glossy or plastic appearance
- Can be applied more quickly than traditional paint systems
Step 3: Coating frames with 2C Colour Coat (RAL 9005)
The black frames are finished with 2C Colour Coat, a high-quality two-component coating with:
- Exceptional adhesion to metal, plastic and powder coating
- High covering capacity – one layer is often sufficient
- Resistant to weather influences, air pollution and mechanical stress
- Long-term colour retention – no discolouration or loss of gloss
Sustainable alternative to replacement
Instead of expensive dismantling or replacement, the choice was made to preserve and reuse the existing materials. This not only results in significant cost savings, but is also:
- Circularly responsible – less waste and material consumption
- Time-saving – shorter lead time, less inconvenience for users
- More environmentally friendly – lower CO₂ footprint than demolition and new construction
- Flexible – easily repeatable in future renovations
Impact on operations and value
After treatment, the building is:
- Demonstrably more attractive to tenants, users or customers
- Value-retaining investment thanks to improved appearance and protection
- Lower maintenance costs in the medium term
- Visually distinctive – thanks to the deep colour combination of red and black
- More reliable appearance – which is important for public or commercial buildings
