Airtight facades enrich Crossroads

An extraordinary structure is emerging at Sloterdijk station: Crossroads. On one side of the railroad tracks will be a 90-meter-high residential tower, on the other side a 45-meter-high student flat. The two towers are connected by a plinth building that runs under the high Hemboog railroad arch. A challenging project where everything revolves around precision and innovation. And in that, Celdex plays a key role.

In June 2022, Celdex was asked by IBS Consultants to collaborate on Crossroads. The assignment? Make sure the facades of both towers are airtight, insulated and impact rainproof. No easy task, because the facades consist of slender precast concrete sandwich elements that are already prepared in the factory. At the construction site, these elements then fall together like Lego blocks.

One of the biggest challenges was realizing glass corner elements without columns. These all-glass corners provide spectacular views from the apartments, but require an innovative approach to sealing.

Innovative solutions

Celdex provided several innovative solutions for Crossroads to optimize construction processes. For example, the company supplied the Pre-Seal M, a foam tape that is airtight and insulating, even at larger joints. The low-friction layer allows the foam tape to withstand the forces exerted during assembly. In addition, EPDM Soft was used, a rubber that keeps rain, wind and dirt out. Combined with Butyl tape 70S, this provides a completely waterproof seal. For added convenience and protection, Celdex also developed custom cuffs, which secure rain drains and prevent leakage during construction. All of these products were pre-applied to the precast elements, allowing for faster work on site. Thanks to this efficient approach, the contractor completed a new floor every seven days. 

Quality as the foundation

A project like Crossroads is all about precision. That's why Celdex, together with Simson Application, carries out strict inspections. From the first toolbox meeting, where work instructions are discussed, to the construction inspections during the installation of the elements: quality is key. Details are recorded in a digital report to guarantee that the towers will soon meet the highest standards.

Crossroads is scheduled for completion in the third quarter of 2025. Thanks to Celdex's work, the towers will not only be beautiful to look at, but also durable and able to withstand the challenges of the future.