Centaur Technologies is raising roof with success

The Leyland-based business began trading its brand of specialist edge flat roofing liquid system in 2013, after a lengthy research and development project.

They founded the company in 2010.

The flagship product is Centech PU – a low odour, quick cure liquid applied roofing system.

Chairman Jeremy says: “This cold-applied liquid waterproofing system is reinforced with a glass fibre mat, which cures to form an incredibly tough polyurethane membrane. It is designed to be used on a wide range of roofs for both existing and new build work.

“Centech PU utilises a complex moisture trigger mechanism that makes it immediately resistant to rainfall allowing roofing contractors an extended chance to apply the product and thus complete projects on time and within budget.”

Today, the company’s expert team comprises 20 staff, who bring together an extensive technical knowledge with sales and customer service skills to help develop and produce bespoke solutions for their clients.

Jeremy adds the service and quality of their products is fundamental to the business and they work hard to understand all aspects and challenges of a project, whether that be working with a building owner, a roofing contractor or a local health trust.

Jeremy, 59, says: “I’m a true Prestonian and very proud of this county. It’s a fantastic place to operate from with great quality people and good communication links.

“Although Centaur Technologies is a relatively new business, we have developed a solid reputation within our industry and that’s down to our highly skilled team, the quality of our product and the partnerships with our approved contractors.

“The last seven years have been terrific and I’m delighted to have helped to shape the business into a leading player within the industry.

“We have steered through some uncertain economic and political times and our achievements are testimony to the success of our business formula. I’m really looking forward to more exciting years ahead for Centaur.”

The firm has also invested heavily in staff, with several undergoing management and administrative training programmes at Preston’s College.

Jeremy and managing director Phil Richardson both previously worked in senior roles at Preston-based Liquid Plastics. Liquid Plastics was sold by Jeremy and the directors in 2009 and became Sika Liquid Plastics.

Phil, 56, has been instrumental in leading the strategic direction of business and helping it to grow into a major force in the flat roofing industry.

When Centaur Technologies was founded, it was backed with investment from Lancashire’s Rosebud Fund, with Enterprise Ventures.

Phil says Centaur has identified a niche in the market – and its prodcut is also one of the safest, designed to eliminate any risk of fire during installation.

Technical field support manager Simon Gardner, 46 and northern regional sales director Adam Draycott, 37, both previously worked at Liquid Plastics.

Simon will typically cover 1,000 miles a week visiting clients. He delivers in-depth training sessions for customers across the UK to help them fully understand the product and how to use it.

Adam completed training with the Institute of Roofing and also holds an Open University degree in Leadership and Management.

His role involved liaising with specifiers, architects and building surveyors at the time of specification and aids in roof surveys and pricing for projects.

He has customers from the Midlands up to Scotland.