Sikkens Rubbol Satura has been used in the repainting of Hinxton Mill, a 17th century clapboard corn mill on the River Cam near Cambridge. The coating from the premium woodcare brand which is part of the ICI Paints AkzoNobel portfolio, was selected for the building’s exterior cladding as it delivers excellent durability and breathability.

From the outset, the property, which is owned and managed by charity, Cambridge Past, Present and Future (www.cambridgeppf.org) , presented a variety of challenges. Hinxton Mill straddles the River Cam and is constructed and clad entirely from wood. Although painted externally in the 1980s with a microporous paint, a subsequent redecoration had been carried out using a solvent-based coating which offered reduced breathability. This had caused poor adhesion between the layers of paint and meant the underlying coating needed to be removed prior to redecoration.

The mill’s location, however, posed a further challenge when it came to this process. As it is built over the River Cam, all works had to be closely monitored to avoid contaminating the water below. When considering options for removal of the existing paint work and redecoration of the building’s exterior, the project’s architect, RH Partnerships, and contractor, T Butler & Son (Sawston) Limited, called on the guidance of Sikkens.

After completing a site visit to Hinxton Mill, Paul Wright, Specification Account Manager for Sikkens, developed a detailed specification for the project and guidance on preparation techniques to remove the defective coatings. This included using rotary wire brushes to remove former paint layers and then using its Sikkens Rubbol Satura to create a breathable, yet protective finish.

Sikkens Rubbol Satura is a highly durable exterior coating, which dries to an opaque satin finish. The coating offers superb extensibility, as well as adhesion and colour retention, even in the harshest weather conditions.

These properties, along with its moisture vapour permeability, made it the ideal choice for the exterior cladding of Hinxton Mill.

Commenting on the project, Graham Black, Consultant at RH Partnerships, said: “Hinxton Mill demonstrates the importance of correct product specification and seeking expert advice on coatings selection. As well as being detrimental to the overall exterior finish, an incorrect coating can affect the wider building envelope.

“By working alongside Sikkens, we’ve been able to overcome the challenges the project presented and achieve a high quality finish that protects the building both inside and out.”

Concluding, Janet Cornish, Properties Manager at Cambridge Past, Present and Future, added: “It is wonderful to see Hinxton Mill restored to its full splendour. Visitors to our summer Open Days have commented on how fantastic the building looks and have been delighted to see this historic mill in full working order.”

Email: sikkens.advice@akzonobel.com