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Roof Uplift Testing: Know the Parameters and Use the Information Wisely

Monica Keels — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 15:00:00 GMT

By: Jerry L. Abendroth RRO, RRC, CDT, CSI

Principal and President, Building Exterior Solutions, LLC

Factory Mutual (FM) Global Insurance Company recommends that field uplift testing be conducted for most adhered roofing systems in the hurricane prone regions of the United States and the Caribbean. Although this test procedure simulates the laboratory test, there is much controversy regarding the use of the test in the field and the variables which can affect test results.

Test Methods

FM Loss Prevention Data Sheet 1-52 (FM 1-52), “Field Uplift Tests,” provides for two methods of testing wind uplift resistance: the negative pressure test and the bonded uplift test. The negative pressure test utilizes a five foot by five foot dome that is placed over the roofing membrane surface. Negative pressure is then applied to the dome starting at an initial pressure of 15 pounds per square foot (psf). The pressure is increased in increments of 7.5 psf with each increment held for one minute until 1.5 times the design test pressure is reached or failure occurs. A deflection bar positioned in the center of the chamber measures upward deflection of the roof membrane. This test is sometimes referred to as the “bubble test.” In years past, the test was often conducted using a durable skylight dome. In recent years, test pressures have been increased substantially requiring the use of negative pressure domes constructed of stronger materials.

The FM negative pressure test is based, at least partly, on American Society for Testing and Material’s (ASTM) E907, “Standard Test Method for Field Testing Uplift Resistance of Adhered Membrane Roofing Systems.” The two tests are similar however there are some significant differences. FM recommends that the chamber be placed “between roof supporting beams or joists (where practical), except when testing roofs on pre-cast concrete roof decks, in which case locate the test site over the joints in the pre-cast concrete deck.” ASTM E907 does not include placement in their test discussion, but they do indicate that roof surface stiffness may be influenced by the roof deck and framing stiffness.

Another notable difference between the FM and ASTM uplift test is that the FM 1-52 test requirements for allowable deflection are more restrictive than ASTM E907. When using FM 1-52 test, the maximum allowable roof surface deflections are one quarter of an inch for pressures to 60 psf and one half of an inch for pressures between 60 psf and 120 psf. Whereas, when using ASTM E907, a one inch deflection is allowable at any test pressure.

The FM 1-52 “Field Uplift Tests” also provides for testing by bonding to the roofing membrane surface to simulate negative pressure. The bonded uplift test utilizes two, two-foot by two-foot pieces of plywood connected to a tripod. The two pieces of plywood are fastened together and attached to the tripod with mechanical fasteners. The plywood is then adhered to the smooth roof surface with steep asphalt, cold adhesive or a material which is compatible with the roof system. After a curing period, the roofing membrane is cut at the perimeter of the plywood. The attached plywood/roof assembly is then attached to a scale/tripod assembly and upward force is applied in increments of 7.5 psf starting at 15 psf and held for one minute at each increment until 1.5 times the design pressure (or failure) is obtained.

Test Variables and Concerns

Major roofing contractor groups, such as the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) and the Midwest Roofing Contractors Association (MRCA) have expressed concerns with the use of field uplift testing and have issued bulletins to their members regarding the use and significance of these types of tests. The NRCA has stated the following concerns utilizing wind uplift testing:

·         Deck deflections of the magnitudes of the deflection limits allowed in FM 1-52 are common for metal roof decks given the high testing loads.

·         Both the ASTM and FM test methods can be sensitive to test operators and yield variable results.

·         Movement of persons around the test chamber can affect the test.

·         Research has not been conducted to validate the field test method.

The NRCA recommends field uplift testing results be kept in proper perspective and FM 1-52, by itself, not be relied on as a quality assurance measure. The NRCA maintains that the best, most reliable means of assessing the quality of a newly installed roof system is through continuous observation of the application by a knowledgeable roofing professional at the time of installation.

Changes to FM 1-52

The most recent version of FM 1-52, issued in April of 2009, includes several significant changes. The most significant change is that the test is currently not recommended for new roof systems which are mechanically attached to certain roof deck types provided the roof fastener spacing is adequate. These roof deck types are steel (minimum 22 gauge), wood, cementitious wood fiber plank, and structural concrete (minimum 2,500 psi).

Another modification provided in the April 2009 FM 1-52 is to increase the allowable deflection for metal decks. For wide rib steel decks where the test pressure exceeds 60 psf, FM now allows an additional one quarter of an inch deflection for each 60 psf increment of testing. If an intermediate or narrow rib deck is used, FM now allows the deflection to be twice the previous limit up to a maximum of one inch deflection.

In addition, FM recommends that all roof top observers who are not directly involved with the test equipment should not stand directly adjacent to the test area during testing. Other changes to the standard include guidance for those conducting testing on how to interpret the results.

Examples of Field Uplift Testing versus Actual Performance

During recent hurricane observations and investigations, several testing agencies used wind uplift testing to determine the viability of existing roof systems. In one such instance testing was conducted on a 25 to 30 year old roof system which had been mopped directly to lightweight insulating concrete. The roof system had withstood the hurricane with little ballast displacement and little water penetration into the building; however, it could not pass the FM 1-52 test. Therefore, while it did not meet the FM 1-52 deflection criteria, it was able to endure a hurricane with minimal damage to the roofing system.

In another example, a 25 year old built-up roof system which had a partial blow-off during a hurricane event was tested to FM 1-90 wind uplift criteria. The roof consisted of 3-ply built-up system over tapered perilite insulation. All layers had been mopped in steep asphalt. The remaining sections of the roof system passed the FM 1-52 test even after adjacent sections of the roofing system had blown off during the hurricane.

Field Uplift Testing – Evaluation

As with any testing, field uplift tests must be conducted in a manner which follows the parameters set forth in the test protocol. However, when performing the testing and after the results are obtained, common sense must be used in the selection of the test areas, performance of the testing, and in the interpretation and use of the results. The specifications for new roof systems should include the type of testing, test information, test pressures and any other relevant information so that the contractor can plan for installation of a successful roofing system. Roof monitoring during construction is an important element of a successful roofing installation. However, despite concerns and difficulties, field uplift testing is a viable tool to help determine a roof system’s ability to withstand potential wind events.

Mr. Abendroth joined Building Exterior Solutions, LLC in September 2008. Mr. Abendroth has been primarily involved with the evaluation and design of roofing, waterproofing, and curtain wall systems. He has also managed consulting services on buildings for the MD Anderson Cancer Center at the Texas Medical Center and managed design services for three re-roofing projects for NASA at the Johnson Space Center, both in Houston. Services included design and design review, mock-up design and testing, and construction administration and observation. Jerry can be reached at 713-467-9840 or jabendroth@buildingexteriorsolutions.com.

29-Jan-10 9:00 AM

Effective Planning Sets Course for Successful Re-Roof at Houston's Intercontinental Airport

Monica Keels — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 19:30:00 GMT

Working at an active international airport terminal can be a juggling act. With flights and travelers coming and going, keeping a productive work schedule can be a challenge for a less experienced contractor. Chamberlin has been working for the Houston Airport System for several decades on various waterproofing and roofing projects and knows what it takes to get the job done.

George Bush Intercontinental Airport Houston (IAH) is the city’s largest airport. One of the airport’s five terminals, Terminal D has 12 gates servicing passengers departing and arriving on several foreign carriers such as Air France, AeroMexico and British Airways. At the end of 2008, the former 20 year old SBS Modified Bitumen roof system above the terminal and airline gates had reached its service life. It had also sustained damage from Hurricane Ike, which turned small leaks into large ones.

Serving as the general contractor, Clark Construction called upon Chamberlin to re-roof the 220,000 sq. ft. terminal.

“Chamberlin was chosen because of their bid, but also because we have had a good experience with them in the past at Hobby Airport and at the IAH Federal Inspections Building,” said Clark Superintendent Matt Lewis.

The scope of work included tearing off and removing the former roof system and installing a new Fibertite DuPont™ Elvaloy^® KEE coated single-ply system along with associated sheet metal coping and counter flashing.

With so many airplanes arriving at and departing the terminal, residual jet fuel had taken a toll on the previous roof system. Project architect PGAL chose the FiberTite KEE membrane because it holds up to the long term effects of jet fuel and other contaminants. The membrane is also ENERGY STAR rated.

Working on a busy, fully occupied building that is roughly the size of four football fields brings some challenges. Before Chamberlin began the tear off process, the roofing team carefully planned a safe and efficient trash removal procedure and designed a chute engineered to meet the airport’s safety protocols. First, Chamberlin built ramps over telecommunication systems, pipes and expansion joints in order to utilize motorized towing vehicles carrying debris to the garbage chute. Behind the vehicle in a train car style were four-wheeled carts hauling the trash.

Second, a 60 foot tall, free standing garbage chute was engineered to handle 220,000 sq. ft. of demolished roofing material. A special ramp was also created at the entrance to the chute so the motorized carts, which travelled in excess of one quarter of a mile across the roof, could pull up to the chute, dump the materials and go back for more. Additionally, a free standing stair tower was engineered and constructed adjacent to the garbage chute for worker access. Both structures were designed by Chamberlin to withstand hurricane force winds.

Once all procedures and processes were in place, the project schedule was set so airline operations were not interrupted by Chamberlin’s work.

“For the most part, our work took place between 4:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.,” said Chamberlin Project Manager, Bill Lawson, “this helped to eliminate disturbances to travelers and airlines alike, and it kept the project moving ahead on a timely schedule.”

Superintendent Yuber Espinal and General Superintendent Jerroul McMellon did a great job coordinating the installation of the roofing system and following through on the plan for safety and trash removal. The project even received a safety award from Clark Construction for achieving six months of work with no lost time accidents or recordable injuries.

In addition to the IAH Terminal D project, Chamberlin is currently working for the Houston Airport System on the interior and exterior renovation of Terminal C and its garages, Terminal A roof replacement, as well as the exterior renovation of the ticketing building and concourse at Hobby Airport.

25-Jan-10 1:30 PM

Identifying Building Envelope Problems

Chamberlin Roofing & Waterproofing — Wed, 27 Dec 2006 20:00:00 GMT

By Mark K. Howell

By definition, "envelope" is an encapsulating covering, such as an outer shell or membrane. In simple building terms, it consists of the roof, above-grade wall system and the below-grade wall system. An envelope's purpose is to provide protection from external elements, which in building construction means protection from moisture, air and temperature ingress and egress.

The definition sounds simple enough, but in reality--because of the thousands of complex products and systems specified and the multiple trades involved--the chance of error is high. As complex and intricate as the building envelope seems to be, how can you tell if building envelope is going to have or is already having problems?

Proactive Investigations

In a perfect world before clients purchased a structure, they would engage a professional with building envelope knowledge to inspect the structure and determine the potential building envelope investment that may be required. Clients typically look at the roof, but rarely go into the remaining elements of the building envelope. With good information from an investigation, a client can make a prudent business decision prior to purchasing a structure. Armed with this information, he can renegotiate the price, accept the risk while being aware of the financial needs, or walk away from the deal.

Unfortunately proactive investigations are still rare, especially when the economy and real estate markets are booming and deal making is fast and furious. A large majority of calls are from clients who have recently acquired structures, new property managers, new condominium board members, new church business managers or new building engineers--each of whom has just taken over a property and found that something is leaking or falling off the building. Regardless of when and whom you get the call from, what is a good way to tell if the building envelope will have problems?

Obviously you have to see the building in person, which then brings up the question: How closely do you need to look? A good starting point is covered by the ASTM E2270 Standard Practice for Periodic Inspections of Building Facades for Unsafe Conditions, which defines the levels of facade inspections to apply to a building. These definitions can be adapted and applied to the building envelope. The ASTM guidelines define a general inspection as observation from greater than six feet and detailed inspections as a visual observation from less than six feet. Typically, the decision for a general inspection has been made because the detailed inspection is too expensive, would take too long, or a report is needed in a short amount of time.

So, we arm ourselves with a building envelope investigator's tool kit, including but not limited to: a good carry bag (I use a hiker's waist pack), a tape measure, rolling wheel, camera, notebook, several color pens, markers, duct tape, a voice recorder and, most important, personal protection equipment, including a hard hat, safety glasses and a pair of gloves.

The general inspection can be broken down into four basic steps:

Initial Walk About
Knowledge Gathering
Interior Symptoms
Exterior Signs

Initial Walk About

I like to begin with a basic tour of the structure before I really get into the details of the next three steps. I title three pages of my notebook at the top--one for the wall system, one for the roof and one for the wall system below grade. I use these pages as my initial note pages to start the documentation process and usually skip using the camera until I get into Steps 3 and 4. This step is used to get familiar with the structure so that if and when I get to see the drawings, I have a mental picture of the building.

Beginning with the wall system, I walk around the structure to get an understanding of the shape and makeup of the structure, materials used, as well as any features like balconies, cornices or ornamentation. Also, I check to see how the building is terminated at grade. I then head to the roof to see the layout--if it has a parapet, how the roof is terminated to the parapet, how the roof is accessed, and the roof system type. Finally, I head to the below grade area of the structure, looking for sump pumps, smelling for dampness and determining the foundation wall construction. Once I have made this brief walk about, I go to the building manager, property manager, business manager, etc., to start the next step: Knowledge Gathering.

Knowledge Gathering

I start this step by asking for a set of drawings. Sometimes this is a challenge. I usually let them know I am going to need thses before showing up so they can find them, organize them, unbury them, etc. It is hoped, they have drawings to review; but with older structures these may not be available. In this case, in order to access some of the history of the structure, you interview management, maintenance staff and tenants, in addition to reviewing the maintenance and project file. Also, ask for any warranties; usually you get one for the roof but also ask for manufacturer warranties for the window systems and the below-grade waterproofing system.

Being more comfortable with facades, I usually flip to sections to find details (or the lack thereof) on the wall systems. First and foremost, I try to identify the wall system as a barrier wall or a water-managed wall (see ASTM 2128 Standard Guide for Evaluating Water Leakage of Building Walls). If it's not clear or if it seems to be questionable, that jump-starts my suspicions on the design details. Next, I check out the details. If a lack of details are pulled out of the wall sections to show how to create terminations, penetrations and changes of plane for all of the particular wall system building materials, it immediately throws up a flag. Unless the project had a high level of quality field craftsmen or really good inspectors, there may be some challenges in the way field decisions were made in order to make these details work. Also, part of the drawings asked for are the shop drawings, especially for the windows if there is a curtain wall. From the window shop drawings, try to determine how the window system is managing water. A lack of wall details or the lack of shop drawings at any time makes Step 3, Interior Symptoms, more intense.

For the roof, I always look at the roofing system type and check if the construction drawings of the roofing system match the existing conditions. If they don't, has there been any modifications? Also if there has been a modification, what, if anything, has been done to the parapet wall? Because parapets are exposed to weather on three sides, there is a greater chance of them having problems, especially if the modifications did not take into consideration the ordinal design intent. Identify the number of drains and whether there is an appropriate roof slope to drain. How the through wall scuppers are detailed always should be reviewed, especially if the scupper outlet is directly at the vertical expansion joint. Last, I try to locate the system specified for the below-grade waterproofing and see if any details were made on termination, penetration and changes in plane.

Interior Symptoms

At this point if the building management has any knowledge of the interior water infiltration and/or severe cracking of interior finishes, now is the time to take the observations you gathered in Step 1 and Step2 in order to identify symptoms in the interior. A brief list of symptoms to look for is:

Staining of the interior wall surfaces and/or the wall system above the ceiling tiles (Figure 1)
Water-damaged insulation above the ceiling tiles
Stained ceiling finishes
Water-damaged window soffits, jambs and sills (Figure 2)
Water stains on the floor finishes, including rust stains from excessively wet steel stud base plates
Peeling of wallpaper
Cracking of interior finishes
Stains / dirt in operable window tracks
Water stains at the perimeter of the AC units
Mold

Document the location of these interior symptoms so that during Step 4, Exterior Signs, you can potentially see if there is a direct correlation. Specifically regarding water infiltration, water does travel; and many times, symptoms are not simply on the exterior of the building. Here is where ASTM 2128 Standard Guide of Evaluating Water Leakage of Building Walls is a tremendous resource.

Exterior Signs

Once you have gathered the information from the previous three steps, you will have a better understanding of what to focus on during the inspection of the exterior signs. The obvious big three are buldging, spalling and cracking. Other than the obvious, here is a brief list of other exterior signs to look for:

When the wall system has a cavity wall but you cannot see the flashing
Weep holes are caulked shut
Weep tubes or weep wicks were used
The roof runs up the back of the parapet wall (Figure 3)
Rust marks are present at imbedded steel locations
Railing posts are set in concrete pockets
Cracks go through the masonry and the mortar
Capstones have craze cracking
Capstones have inside and outside bed joints and the cross joints caulked shut
Spalling brick
Glazed brick shattered with effloresce stains
Cracking through EIFS lamina (Figure 4)
Post-tensioning ends with rust bleed out
A white haze on a brick cavity wall
Efflorescence from cracks in concrete or masonry
Grade is sloped toward the building
Rain water conductors cut off and run out on grade
Horizontal rust limes in mortar joints
Discolored stone or masonry
Racked windows and doors
Rotted or rusted door and window frames
Signs of condensation on glass
Excessive mortar joint popping
Smeared caulking on mortar joints
Step cracking off of steel lintels
Glued down carpets on exterior horizontal concrete surfaces
Painted and/or caulked terra cotta
Glass-to-metal glazing has turned into gum or has shrunk from the window frame
Compressed building sealant at expansion joints
Face-sealed curtain walls or window systems
Surface alligatoring of the roof membrane
Roof seam splits
Roof surface applied termination bar to a cavity wall (Figure 5)
Overall roof drainage
Incomplete expansion joints (Figure 6)

If any of these signs match up with any symptoms determined in the previous steps, there is a very good chance that the building envelopes faces some challenges. The exterior signs without interior symptoms, do not mean there is not a challenge, but it's just a matter of time. In most cases, the interior symptom will occur at some point in the life of the structure, so it is important to continue to monitor these conditions.

In most cases, the obvious building envelope problems are easy to identify. In order to identify the not-so-obvious signs, especially if the interior symptoms have not occurred or have not been identified, experience in the restoration of building envelope deficiencies is priceless. Combine this with the knowledge of architectural details, engineering basics, good waterproofing practices, as well as an inspection plan as outlined above, and the client will have the best possible information about the building envelope. This information can be used as a tool to purchase a building, create capitol projects or develop a maintenance plan.

Mark K. Howell is a recognized leader in concrete and masonry maintenance repair industry and has been involved in the investigations and restoration of many comtemporary and historic structures during the past decade. He is employed with Stuctural Preservation Systems in Baltimoore, Md., and can be reached via mhowell@structural.net

This article was printed in the Summer 2005 Issue of SWRI's Applicator magazine.

27-Dec-06 2:00 PM

Sealing Stadium Expansion Joints: A New Process Yields Watertight Results

Chamberlin Roofing & Waterproofing — Thu, 15 Jun 2006 15:00:00 GMT

By Lester Hensley, President and CEO of EMSEAL Joint Systems, Ltd.

Most stadiums leak at expansion joints. Owners cringe at the truth and spend thousands, even millions, of dollars each year to repair leaks. The rare exceptions--stadiums completed with watertight joints--are characterized by a design and build process that involves a shift in the traditional way stakeholders relate and execute their work. This process must begin early in the stages of design and planning, and continue until construction is complete.

How can stadium owners ensure that their facility will be leak free? There are several steps tht if followed throughout the project, will ensure the stadium remains dry and free of the need for expensive refurbishment.

OWNER RESPONSIBILITIES: BUDGET APPROPRIATELY

Less than half of 1% of a typical stadium construction budget is spent on expansion joints. However, a majority of post-tenancy problems with these structures relates to water ingress. Owners must be receptive to the recommendations for superior technologies presented to them by designers and be prepared to allocate additional resources to the design contract to allow proper detailing of joints and their relationships to other structural elements. By spending slightly more of the construction budget on waterproofing, stadium owners can expect, and indeed demand, trouble-free, dry and lasting joint seals.

DESIGNER RESPONSIBILITIES: DESIGN FOR JOINT SEALING TECHNOLOGIES FROM THE BEGINNING

Even the best waterproofing system is going to fail if there are holes in the membrane. Structural expansion joints represent a planned hole in the waterproofing membrane. It is wise to begin with consideration of how these major holes will be addressed and work with the membrane materials out from there.

Designing out expansion joint problems begins with consideration of the following:

ACKNOWLEDGE THE NEED FOR EXPANSION JOINTS:

Structural materials have limitations. Extreme weather conditions can cause damage over time. Cracks as a result of overstressed materials are nearly impossible to seal and can result in dangerous structural weaknesses. Properly designed expansion joints will prevent cracking, while carefully chosed sealant systems will withstand weather conditions and keep the facility dry.

CHOOSE EXPANSION JOINT LOCATION CAREFULLY:

Away from corners -- Corners are a bad place for expansion joints. Do not cast, or use the joints between precast corner units as the place for the structural expansion joints. Corners are impossible to set while creating a consistent expansion joint gap size. Furthermore, the angles created in the corner make awkward geometries for the attachement of sealant systems. Instead, cast the corners solid, or weld these precast connections and make them non-moving. Make the structural expansion joint in a single line just off the corners.

Not through planters -- Never try to waterproof structural expansion joints inside planters. If the joint runs through areas where planters are designed, detail the planters with back-to-back walls, leaving the expansion joint sealable.

Away from obvious water sources -- Keep scruppers away from joints and don't slope drainage across joints. Instead, for example, locate joints at the top of a ramp. Do not expect a deck to drain down a ramp and over, under or through the joint.

Think about interiors -- Joints cut completely through the whole structure. Therefore, think about the interior layouts in relation to expansion joints. Considered early enough, it is even possible to hide some joints between back-to-back interior walls thereby eliminating their aesthetic impact, as well as the need to bridge them. Make sure the interior subcontractors know where joints are, and the effect the joints may have on location of mechanical or plumbing fixtures. Finally, select and specify all-metal, high-point-load expansion joints capable of handling small-wheeled catering, cleaning and other traffic that typically destroys "rubber and rail" joint systems.

SELECT STRUCTURAL SUPPORTS WISELY:

Choose split columns rather than single columns with slide bearing pads. A single-column structure results in hard-to-seal conditions around the column caps that create shear conditions for which most watertight joint systems are not designed. Split columns ensure that a system's sealing integrity can be maintained.

SIZE JOINTS PROPERLY:

There are four main facets related to sizing joints properly - expected movement, functional and installation temperature range, tolerance build-up, and movement capability. Architectural teams must also take the lead for sizing in joint design. Often, the structural team will make recommendations without considering a material and its movement capability and other effects on joint design. This can be avoided if the architectural team selects a technology and takes it to the structural team with the question: "What size joint do we need if we seal the joint with THIS specific technology?" The resulting joint size calculation can then take into account the movement capability if the product or technology type to be used.

TAKE TIME TO FIND THE RIGHT TECHNOLOGY:

Limit specifications to manufacturers that continually demonstrate a commitment to joint treatment, have sound technology, the ability to ensure and guarantee watertightness in plane and direction changes, and a commitment to quality. A trend in the specialty products industry is the tendency of suppliers to commoditize products, thereby removing much of the value essential to proper performance. The ability and willingness of manufacturers to offer solutions and to fabricate watertight transitions in plane and direction, such as up and down treads and risers, remain rare differentiators.

Features in purpose-designed joint systems include integral heat-weldable, thermoplastic rubber flashing sheets for "sandwiching" into deck waterproofing materials on split-slab decks. This ensures total water-tightness over occupied space below, while heavy-duty aluminum or steel side rails and stainless steel retaining capping strips allow long-term maintenance access to the sealing insert which in turn is designed to handle cyclical movements.

THINK AND DESIGN IN 3-D:

Develop isometric, line-sketch schematics to show all the joints throughout the stadium. Include all changes in plane, direction, and intersection with other materials. This will put the design team on the same page, allowing all participants to identify and design out many problems before construction begins. Cross-reference the material selection for each joint in the schematic with a cross-section detail. In addition, show axonometric details of each transition in plane and direction, especially when illustrating transitions between different material technologies, e.g. between a concourse deck joint and a wall joint. Manufacturers publish on their Web sites most of the axonometric details needed to detail and specify watertight transitions within the same product, as well as between different technologies. This makes detailing these conditions as simple as cutting and pasting.

COMMUNICATE JOINT LOCATIONS TO ALL INVOLVED:

Make sure to show expansion joints on all drawings, including structural, architectural, mechanical and landscape. In the specifications, include a specific reference for responsibility of all trades to appropriate treatment of their work at expansion joints.

WRITE PROJECT-SPECIFIC SPECIFICATIONS:

Stadiums are not the place to use a "cookie-cutter" approach to expansion joint design. The specifications for each job must match the specific performance demands of each venue. Research available technologies, implement them into the design and write specifications that reflect the choice. Make sure to stick with the plan throughout the project to ensure technology continuity and continuity of seal.

HAVE COURAGE:

Joint systems are a tiny percentage of the stadium construction jobs. Having engaged in the aforementioned expansion joint design-emphasis process, designers should have the courage to defend proprietary specifications of superior joint system, and hold to them even under pressure for substitutions of cheaper, less-effective alternatives.

CONTRACT EXECUTION: GENERAL CONTRACTOR, OWNER RESPONSIBILITIES LIMIT WORK TO CAREFULLY SELECTED CONTRACTORS

Limiting work to a select group of contractors, often those recommended by the expansion joint system manufacturer, can be a huge factor in ensuring watertight joint seals. These contractors have been properly trained to install the chosen systems and can address substrate conditions that help ensure watertightness. Because they work closely with manufacturers, these contractors are not likely to underbid the job, keeping change-order cost increases to a minimum, and are likely to be versed in, and willing to remain committed to, a communication process involving the designer, owner representative, manufacturer and general contractor.

COMMUNICATE CLEARLY AND OFTEN:

Hold a pre-construction meeting with all parties involved in the treatment of work at and around expansion joints. This meeting should take place prior to pouring concrete that will define the expansion joints. Make sure all superintendents and forepersons with responsibility for casting activities attend the meeting to review such issues as:

Forming joint-gaps in relation to temperature changes
Ensuring solid form construction to prevent collapsed and misaligned joint forming
Proper consolidation and through vibration, of slab edges and blockouts
Zero tolerance on blockout formation
Finesse concrete work for final blockout preparation
Location, elevation and configuration of joint curbs
Execution of concrete work to handle transitions to vertical plane
Protection of joints and traffic routing until decks are opened to normal use

EMPHASIZE EXPANSION JOINTS DURING ALL CONSTRUCTION PHASES:

Continue to place expansion joints on meeting agendas throughout the construction process. Many subcontractors, including electrical, HVAC, masonry, flooring façade panel, waterproofing and caulking, work in close proximity to expansion joint locations and they must be aware their work cannot impede structural movement that will occur at expansion joints or compromise the achievement of watertightness at expansion joints in any way. As the construction progresses, the general contractor must emphasize expansion joints during each stage. Expansion joints must be considered a critical path item, rather than an added piece at the end of the project. Failure to emphasize expansion joints during construction is a significant contributor to delays, cost overruns and the reworking that characterizes preparation of joints to receive the expansion joint system.

IN CONCLUSION:

Sky boxes that won't heat or cool; damage to high-dollar corporate boxes; lost concession-vendor revenue; and icy slip hazards are among the numerous complaints stadium owners and managers have endured as a result of leaking expansion joints. Furthermore, most retrofit expansion joint contracts far exceed the cost of doing it right the first time. Yes, stadium construction is a complex process. Nevertheless, with notable new construction successes, including Phillies Ballpark and Keyspan Park, and numerous retrofit successes, including FedEx Field, Fenway Park and American Airlines Arena, have demonstrated that a new paradigm for expansion joint treatment is not only possible but also practical.

Lester Hensley is President and CEO of EMSEAL Joint Systems Ltd. Having first joined the company in 1990, Hensley is credited with using EMSEAL's base product offering as a springboard for market-driven product innovation and for securing a solid reputation among architects, engineers, contractors and distributors, as well as the company's network of independent manufacturers' representatives.

15-Jun-06 10:00 AM

Dallas County Community College District Earns More Recognition for Chamberlin

noemail@chamberlinltd.com — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 19:00:00 GMT

Dallas County Community College District (DCCCD) is one of Chamberlin’s most decorated projects to date. Not only did it take home a North Texas Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Excellence Award last year, but it also won a National ABC Eagle Award. This year DCCCD has gone on to take home three more awards.

DCCCD recently won International Concrete Repair Institute’s (ICRI) Outstanding Concrete Repair Merit Award in the “Historic Structures” category. Project Manager Andy Wharton accepted the award on Chamberlin’s behalf at ICRI’s Annual Convention in Tempe, Arizona. Winning ICRI projects follow strict guidelines and demonstrate certain qualities including project uniqueness, use of state-of-the-art methods and materials, functionality, value engineering and aesthetics.

DCCCD also took home the Texas Construction magazine’s Best of 2009 Award. Texas Construction magazine hosts an annual awards competition that recognizes commercial construction firms across the state of Texas and Oklahoma. This year, with over 150 nominated projects, Chamberlin won the Best of 2009 Award for Specialty Contracting. Projects were awarded based on safety, innovation, contribution to the community or industry, construction quality, craftsmanship, function and aesthetic quality of design. All entries were sorted by project type and each category had one “Best of” award winner.

In addition, Chamberlin submitted the DCCCD project to AGC’s North Texas Summit Awards and won the “Outstanding Project” award in the “Masonry” category. This was Chamberlin’s first time to submit a project in this award competition.

To date Dallas County Community College District has received five awards. Chamberlin looks forward to cranking out more top-notch projects in the coming years.

Chamberlin Receives Three New Project Awards from ABC

noemail@chamberlinltd.com — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 16:00:00 GMT

Chamberlin has been honored with three awards from Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) local Excellence in Construction Awards competition in Houston and North Texas, receiving two Excellence Awards and one Merit. Chamberlin submitted two projects to the North Texas chapter awards competition. Both projects won Excellence awards. Children’s Medical Center Legacy Campus competed in the “Specialty Construction Less than $1 Million” category. Chamberlin was hired by Austin Commercial to perform the waterproofing scope of work on the project. This new project consisted of a four story hospital, a four story Children’s Ambulatory Care Pavilion, a central utility plant and an underground tunnel that connects the utility plant to the hospital. When work wrapped up on Children’s Medical Center Legacy Campus in the fall of 2008, the new campus was not only watertight but was also ready to provide children a peaceful facility to get the medical attention...

Waterproofing Project Manager

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 14:22:00 GMT

Title: Waterproofing Project Manager Description: Chamberlin Roofing & Waterproofing is an established commercial specialty contractor that provides roofing and sheet metal, waterproofing and caulking, building and garage restoration services as well as related maintenance and leak repair. We are a leader in our industry with a reputation for excellence. Chamberlin currently has a full time Project Manager position available in our Waterproofing and Caulking department. Duties: Prepare work to be accomplished by gathering information and requirements; set priorities. Resolve cost discrepancies by collecting and analyzing information. Prepare special reports by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing information and trends. Maintain quality service by following organization standards. Develop & Maintain good working relationships with General Contractors & Building Consultants Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing...

Roofing Project Manager

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 15:53:35 GMT

Title: Roofing Project Manager Description: Chamberlin Roofing & Waterproofing is an established commercial specialty contractor that provides roofing and sheet metal, waterproofing and caulking, building and garage restoration services as well as related maintenance and leak repair. We are a leader in our industry with a reputation for excellence. Chamberlin currently has a full time Project Manager position available in our Roofing and Sheet Metal department. Duties: Prepare work to be accomplished by gathering information and requirements; set priorities. Resolve cost discrepancies by collecting and analyzing information. Prepare special reports by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing information and trends. Maintain quality service by following organization standards. Develop & Maintain good working relationships with General Contractors & Building Consultants Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional...

Waterproofing Project Estimator

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 06:00:00 GMT

Title: Waterproofing Project Estimator Description: Project and control construction costs by collecting and studying information; controlling construction costs. Duties: * Prepare work to be accomplished by gathering information and requirements; setting priorities. * Prepare construction estimate costs by studying plans & specifications. * Evaluate quotes from vendors/manufacturers to determine the best possible solution for a project. * Work with Project Managers to develop a plan on each project that is ultimately won. * Resolve cost discrepancies by collecting and analyzing information. * Prepare special reports by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing information and trends. * Maintain quality service by following organization standards. * Develop & Maintain relationships with General Contractors & Property Managers * Maintain professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks;...

MORE ABOUT CHAMBERLIN:

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 22:44:38 GMT

MORE ABOUT CHAMBERLIN

SERVICES
Roofing & Sheet Metal, Waterproofing & Caulking, Building & Garage Restoration, Roof Maintenance & Leak Repair

CLIENTELE
Chamberlin Partners with General Contractors, Property Managers, Building Owners, Facility Managers and Consultants to provide high performance and cost effective waterproofing, caulking, roofing and sheet metal solutions.

EXPERTISE
- New Construction & Remedial Waterproofing
- New Construction Roofing & Reroofing
- Building Envelope Remediation
- Concrete & Masonry Restoration
- Roof Maintenance & Leak Repair
- Custom Sheet Metal Fabrication

BUILDING CATEGORIES
- Commercial
- Industrial
- Institutional
- Governmental

BUILDING TYPES
The most common building types Chamberlin serves include, but are not limited to, office buildings, medical facilities, educational buildings, retail buildings, warehouse / industrial buildings, parking garages, stadiums / arenas, condominiums, religious facilities and wastewater / water treatment facilities.

Chamberlin Roofing & Waterproofing Quarterly Newsletter

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 20:24:37 GMT

Current Issue: WINTER 2010 (view a printer friendly .pdf) Inside this issue . . . Cover Story - Effective Planning Sets Course for Successful Re-Roof at Houston's Intercontinental Airport Consultant's Corner - Roof Uplift Testing: Know the Test Parameters and Use the Information Wisely by Jerry Abendroth, Principal and President, Building Exterior Solutions, LLC Chamberlin Receives Three New Project Awards from ABC Dallas County Community College District Earns More Recognition for Chamberlin Projects in Progress Chamberlin Newsletter Archive: FALL 2009 (view a printer friendly .pdf) Inside this issue . . . Cover Story - The Dallas Mercantile - A Historic Landmark is Transformed to Luxury Living and Retail Space Consultant's Corner - Rappel Inspections: Untraditional, Cost Effective and Time Efficient by Jeremy Bridwell, Senior Project Engineer, French Engineering, Inc. Chamberlin Honored with Platinum Safety Award Employee Profile - George Bridges, Senior Project Estimator...

Roofing & Waterproofing Projects

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 22:05:22 GMT

The following represents selected completed projects from Chamberlin's roofing, waterproofing and restoration portfolio. For more specific details or information on additional projects, feel free to call us at 1-800-749-1432. AVIATION CULTURAL / NON-PROFIT GOVERNMENT HEALTHCARE HIGHER EDUCATION HISTORIC RENOVATION HOSPITALITY INDUSTRIAL / WAREHOUSE K-12 EDUCATION MULTIFAMILY / CONDO OFFICE / COMMERCIAL PARKING GARAGES RELIGIOUS RETAIL SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT CURRENT PROJECTS IN PROGRESS PROJECTS FEATURED IN THE NEWS OTHER PROJECTS

Chamberlin Roofing & Waterproofing Historic Renovation Projects

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 22:04:49 GMT

Briscoe Western Art Museum – San Antonio, Texas Remedial Waterproofing Contract Amount: $200,000 (approx.) Owner: National Western Art Foundation Architect: Lake|Flato Architects Consultant: Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. General Contractor: Zachry Construction Corporation Scope of Work: Below-grade waterproofing and masonry restoration Project Description: Restoration and repurposing of 1930s Carnegie Library Dallas County Community College District – Dallas, Texas Remedial Roofing & Waterproofing Contract Amount: $930,000 (approx.) Owner: Dallas County Community College District General Contractor: Turner Construction Scope of Work: Concrete repair, epoxy injection, corrosion inhibitor, interior wall and floor sealer, cementitious waterproofing, replaced brick, tuck pointing, masonry infill, removed and replaced deteriorated concrete and steel lintels, installed new hollow metal frames in existing masonry walls, elastomeric coating, plaster,...

Chamberlin Roofing & Waterproofing Sports & Entertainment Projects

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 21:54:33 GMT

New Construction: Houstonian Club and Tennis Center – Houston, Texas New Construction Roofing & Waterproofing Contract Amount: $1,000,000 (approx.) Owner: Houstonian Fitness Club Architect: Kirksey Architecture General Contractor: Manhattan Construction Company Scope of Work: Modified Bitumen roofing system and sheet metal, hot-applied waterproofing, below-grade waterproofing, expansion joints, joint sealants, deck coating, flashing and dampproofing Project Description: New fully enclosed tennis center Sam Viersen Gymnasium Center – Norman, Oklahoma New Construction Waterproofing Contract Amount: $140,000 (approx.) Owner: The University of Oklahoma Architect: Krittenbrink Architecture LLC. General Contractor: Landmark Construction Scope of Work: Under slab and below-grade waterproofing, joint sealants Project Description: Gymnastic facility addition Tulsa Regional Events and Convention Center - Tulsa, Oklahoma New Construction Waterproofing ...

Chamberlin Roofing & Waterproofing Parking Garage Projects

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 21:49:43 GMT

New Construction: Devon Energy World Headquarters Parking Garage – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma New Construction Waterproofing Contract Amount: $1,600,000 (approx.) Owner: Devon Energy World Headquarters Architect: Kendall/Heaton Assoc., Inc. General Contractor: Holder-Flintco Scope of Work: Split slab waterproofing, expansion joints, vertical waterproofing, horizontal waterproofing, deck coating, repellents and sealants Project Description: 10 story parking garage Texas Medical Center Garage #19 – Houston, Texas New Construction Roofing & Waterproofing Contract Amount: $475,000 (approx.) Owner: Texas Medical Center Architect: Walter P Moore General Contractor: Tellepsen Builders, L.P. Scope of Work: Expansion joints, traffic coating, anti-graffiti coating, joint sealants, stainless steel flashing, galvanized sheet metal cants, EPDM roofing system, sheet metal and flashing Project Description: Eight level parking garage Will Rogers Parking Garage –...

Chamberlin Roofing & Waterproofing Cultural / Non-Profit Projects

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 21:35:21 GMT

New Construction: Irving Convention Center – Irving, Texas New Construction Waterproofing Contract Amount: $750,000 (approx.) Owner: City of Irving Architect: RMJM Hillier General Contractor: Austin Commercial Scope of Work: Air barrier, sheet membrane waterproofing, hot fluid-applied waterproofing, joint sealants, expansion joints and flashing Project Description: 100,000 sq. ft. meeting and exhibit space DePelchin Children’s Center - Houston, Texas New Construction Roofing Contract Amount: $75,000 (approx.) Owner: DePelchin Children’s Center Architect: Gensler General Contractor: Brookstone Corporation Scope of Work: EPDM roofing and metal flashing Project Description: Social and mental health services center for children American Indian Cultural Center Phase IA - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma New Construction Waterproofing Contract Amount: $300,000 (approx.) Owner: State of Oklahoma Architect: ADG / Greeby General Contractor: Centennial...

Chamberlin Roofing & Waterproofing Hospitality Projects

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 17:16:33 GMT

New Construction: Houstonian Club and Tennis Center – Houston, Texas New Construction Roofing & Waterproofing Contract Amount: $1,000,000 (approx.) Owner: Houstonian Fitness Club Architect: Kirksey Architecture General Contractor: Manhattan Construction Company Scope of Work: Modified Bitumen roofing system and sheet metal, hot-applied waterproofing, below-grade waterproofing, expansion joints, joint sealants, deck coating, flashing and dampproofing Project Description: New fully enclosed tennis center Quapaw Casino – Quapaw, Oklahoma New Construction Roofing Contract Amount: $1,600,000 (approx.) Owner: Quapaw Tribe of Oklahoma Architect: JCJ Architecture General Contractor: Manhattan Construction Co. Scope of Work: EPDM roofing system and sheet metal Project Description: New hotel and casino JW Marriott – San Antonio, Texas New Construction Waterproofing Contract Amount: $2,000,000 (approx.) Owner: SA Real Estate, LLC. Architect: HKS, Inc. ...

Chamberlin Roofing & Waterproofing Retail Projects

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 17:12:48 GMT

New Construction: 300 S. Lamar – Austin, Texas New Construction Waterproofing Contract Amount: $150,000 (approx.) Owner: South Lamar – Austin Glass PO Limited Partnership Architect: BOKA Powell, LLC General Contractor: Greystar Construction Scope of Work: Sheet waterproofing, crystalline waterproofing, hot-applied waterproofing, dampproofing, flashing, fountain coating, joint sealants and site sealants Project Description: Retail and apartment complex Sun Valley Shoppes - El Paso, Texas New Construction Roofing Contract Amount: $1,900,000 (approx.) Owner: Horizon Group Properties Architect: Adams & Associates General Contractor: SamCorp General Contractors Scope of Work: TPO roofing system and sheet metal Project Description: Retail center with eight buildings Rockwall Crossing - Rockwall, Texas New Construction Roofing Contract Amount: $550,000 (approx.) Owner name: Woodmont Co. Architect: Herschman Architects General Contractor: W.B. Kibler ...

Chamberlin Roofing & Waterproofing Religious Projects

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 17:11:38 GMT

New Construction: Chapelwood United Methodist Church – Houston, Texas New Construction Roofing & Waterproofing Contract Amount: $750,000 (approx.) Owner: Chapelwood United Methodist Church Architect: Merriman Holt Architects General Contractor: Brookstone, L.P. Scope of Work: SBS Modified Bitumen roofing with gravel surfacing, sheet metal flashing and trim, bentonite waterproofing, fluid-applied membrane air barrier, through-wall flashing and joint sealants Project Description: Expansion of church campus Great Commission Baptist Church – Ft. Worth, Texas New Construction Roofing Contract Amount: $400,000 (approx.) Owner: Great Commission Baptist Church Architect: Gossen Livingston General Contractor: Century Builders Scope of Work: Mechanically attached TPO roof system and metal standing seam roof system Project Description: New sanctuary, classrooms and office building Overcoming Faith Christian – Arlington, Texas New Construction Roofing ...