Replacing a Failing Roof Without Interrupting Critical Research

Case Western Reserve University’s Wolstein Research Building is an eight-story research facility that opened in 2003. In 2011, Technical Assurance was engaged to investigate recurring roof leaks affecting multiple areas of the building, including a stem cell research laboratory. At the time, the original built-up roof system was relatively new and remained under the manufacturer’s warranty.

The leaks presented an unusually significant operational concern. The affected laboratory worked with University Hospitals to support stem cell therapy for patients and required stringent environmental conditions, including maintenance of a white-suit clean laboratory. Keeping the research space operational was therefore a critical requirement throughout investigation and remediation.

Looking Beyond the Immediate Leak Locations

Initial repairs to visible roof damage provided only limited success. Technical Assurance expanded the investigation beyond the immediate areas where leaks were appearing inside the building and discovered extensive areas of saturated roof insulation. Based on those findings and the sensitive requirements of the facility, the decision was made to replace the relatively young roof system.

Technical Assurance subsequently provided roof design, material selection, budgeting, and bid services for the approximately 36,500-square-foot, $2 million replacement project.

Managing Roof Replacement Around a Complex Research Environment

Construction presented significant logistical challenges. Numerous rooftop HVAC units, vents, drains, and other equipment created congested working areas and prevented the use of large equipment typically employed to remove roofing installed over lightweight insulating concrete. As a result, much of the removal required more labor-intensive and time-consuming methods.

Technical Assurance provided project management, construction administration, and full-time quality observation while also developing measures to protect the sensitive research environment below.

Maintaining Laboratory Operations Throughout Construction

Several water leaks occurred during the roof replacement, putting the project’s containment measures to the test. The containment system performed successfully in every instance, preventing disruption to the stem cell laboratory.

The laboratory remained open and operational throughout construction without requiring staff relocation. Following completion, the space was returned to its previous condition, with final testing confirming acceptable air quality.