Advanced Roofing Solutions for Enhanced Safety and Longevity
McCulloh Homes is a public housing complex located in Baltimore, Maryland, that’s managed by the Housing Authority of Baltimore City (HABC). The site offers a variety of affordable housing options, including low-rise apartments and townhouses, and the residences are conveniently located near public transportation, schools, parks and medical facilities.
However, persistent roof leaks, cracking, and general deterioration posed risks to the residents’ safety and the building’s structural integrity. A durable, energy-efficient roofing solution was urgently needed to restore a sense of safety and stability.
The Contractor: Allstate Contractor Inc.
To address the issues, the Housing Authority partnered with Allstate Contractor Inc., a woman-owned company established in 1997. Renowned for its expertise in high-quality and cost-effective roofing solutions, Allstate has extensive experience in serving government and commercial clients across the Washington Metropolitan Area.
With a comprehensive understanding of the federal contracting process and technical expertise in a wide range of roofing systems. Allstate was uniquely positioned to tackle the McCulloh Homes project.
Allstate’s reputation for meticulous workmanship, advanced product knowledge, and superior service ensures long-term solutions that stand up to both financial and environmental demands. This project exemplified their ability to combine innovation with practicality.
Technical Challenges
The existing roofing system at McCulloh Homes, a two-layer torch-down and mopped system, had outlived its lifespan. Constant leaks and cracks rendered it ineffective, while poor weather resistance exacerbated the problems. The system softened under high temperatures, cracked during temperature fluctuations, and lacked the flexibility and durability required to protect the building in extreme conditions.
Addressing these deficiencies required a roofing system that could withstand Baltimore’s variable weather, provide energy efficiency, and offer long-term reliability.
The Solution
Allstate Contractor, led by project manager Rony Santos, recommended a self-adhered installation process using Polyglass USA’s advanced asphalt roofing products. This solution incorporated cutting-edge materials designed for performance, efficiency, and ease of application.
The Polyglass asphalt modified bitumen membrane system was selected for its durability, energy efficiency, and ability to meet the complex needs of a large-scale housing project. This innovative system replaced the aging roof and provided several key benefits:
- Durability and Longevity: The new roof is engineered to last up to 30 years, offering superior resistance to punctures, tears, and extreme weather conditions.
- Energy Efficiency:Polyglass Polytherm insulation significantly reduces heating and cooling costs, improving energy performance.
- Enhanced Waterproofing:Advanced materials ensure superior resistance to water infiltration, critical in a region prone to heavy rain.
- Streamlined Installation:Polyglass products feature self-adhered technology, which minimizes labor requirements, reduces waste, and speeds up installation.
Project Execution
The replacement process involved removing the old roof and installing the Polyglass asphalt modified bitumen system. With a roof area spanning 170,000 square feet, this was a large-scale operation that demanded precision and efficiency. Allstate’s team ensured proper installation, adhering to best practices and leveraging Polyglass products’ advanced technology.
The new roofing system addressed all key challenges, providing robust weather protection, enhanced energy performance, and long-term reliability. Its ability to withstand extreme weather conditions, including heavy rain and high winds, significantly reduced maintenance requirements and improved the safety and comfort of McCulloh Homes residents.
Outcome and Impact
The McCulloh Homes roof replacement project was a resounding success. According to Rony Santos, the results exceeded expectations:
“Thanks to Polyglass asphalt roofing products, the McCulloh Homes roof replacement project looks better than it ever has. The results showcase attention to detail, precision, and hard work. I would consider using Polyglass again in the future.”
By the Numbers
Location
412 Oxford Court
Baltimore, Maryland
Size
170,000 square feet
Product Spotlight
PG 100
A general-purpose penetrating asphalt primer used to promote adhesion prior to the application of hot-mopped, cold-applied and self-adhesive membrane systems, as well as roof cements, mastics and asphalt-based adhesives.
PG500
A high-quality formulation used as a cold-applied bonding agent for Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene (SBS) roofing systems, as well as various other membrane systems. Has a heavy, “trowel-grade” consistency, making it ideal for flashing details, attachment of membrane to steep slopes and parapet walls, and a variety of waterproofing repairs. Its flexibility and elasticity make it superior to standard plastic cements, especially where there are moving joints.
Elastoflex SA P
A self-adhered Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene (SBS) granulated cap sheet for use in low-slope roofing. Manufactured using Polyglass’ patented ADESO® Dual-Compound Self-Adhered Technology. With this technology, a “true” elastomeric modified asphalt compound is applied to the top of the membrane and a proprietary self-adhesive SBS compound is applied to the bottom. Elastoflex SA P is constructed with a tough non-woven polyester reinforcement that provides flexibility and dimensional stability as well as excellent tear and puncture resistance.
Polyglass Ply IV
Polyglass Ply IV is manufactured with a heavyweight fiberglass mat containing heat-cured resinous binders. The high-strength glass mat is saturated with asphalt, giving it excellent strength and weathering characteristics, as well as a uniform porosity for ease in application. Used in hot-mopped roofing applications and may be the basic ply sheet used in all smooth and gravel surfaced roofing systems requiring ASTM D2178 Type VI felt.
Polytherm Polyisocyanurate Insulation
A highly energy efficient rigid insulation board composed of a closed-cell Polyisocyanurate foam core laminated to a fiber reinforced black non-asphaltic organic facer for superior bonding characteristics. Manufactured with a facer ideally suitable for many types of roofing products, including the direct application of ADESO® dual-compound self-adhered membranes under most project circumstances. Available in flat and tapered panels.
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