Perched at the top of a steep hill that experiences significant wind gusts, the main sanctuary features a roof with a 3:12 pitch. Finished with clay roof tiles, the contractor chose to install a three ply, self-adhered Polyglass system underneath the clay roof tiles to ensure maximum protection against the elements. The roof pitch and propensity for high winds didn’t allow for the tile roof to have any roof penetrations. The Polyglass system provided the waterproofing protection found when using multi-ply systems, in addition to a surface to which the tiles could be foam adhered.
Project Type: Commercial
Chet Holifield Federal Building
20 Years Strong: The Enduring Legacy of the Chet Holifield Federal Building
The Chet Holifield Federal Building, a striking architectural landmark in Laguna Niguel, CA, continues to impress two decades after its 2003 renovation. Originally designed by renowned architect William L. Pereira, this iconic building underwent a significant transformation to ensure its longevity and functionality.
One of the most critical aspects of the renovation was the installation of a new, expansive roof covering 480,000 square feet. Given the building’s sensitive operations, including the IRS and National Archives, the project demanded a roofing solution that could be installed quickly, cleanly, and without disrupting daily activities.
Polyglass USA, in collaboration with Western Roofing Service, provided the ideal solution: a polymer-modified low-slope self-adhesive membrane system. This innovative technology eliminated the need for hot asphalt or mechanical fasteners, resulting in a faster, cleaner, and more efficient installation process.
One of the most significant challenges was the near-zero slope of the existing roof deck. To address this, a tapered polyisocyanurate system was installed, followed by a cover board, both bonded with low-rise foam adhesive. This created a solid foundation for the two-layer Polyglass membrane system, consisting of Elastoflex SA V base/interply membrane and Polyflex SA P APP mineral cap sheet.
The successful installation of this roofing system was a testament to the expertise of Western Roofing Service and the quality of Polyglass’ products. The project was completed on time and within budget, with minimal disruption to the building’s occupants.
Fast forward 20 years, and the Chet Holifield Federal Building’s roof continues to perform exceptionally well. Despite significant foot traffic and the installation of a rooftop solar panel system, the Polyglass SA membranes have remained intact and watertight.
A recent assessment by Atlas Consulting confirmed the roof’s outstanding performance. The bonded roof tests, infrared thermography, and visual inspections all indicated that the roof system was in excellent condition and had a projected lifespan of another 30 to 35 years.
The success of the Chet Holifield Federal Building project highlights the durability and reliability of Polyglass’ self-adhesive membrane systems. This project serves as a powerful example of how innovative roofing solutions can contribute to the long-term sustainability and performance of iconic buildings.
By the Numbers
Location:
24000 Avila Rd.
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Size:
480,000 square feet
Product Spotlight
Elastoflex SA V
Elastoflex SA V is a high-performance, self-adhered base sheet that delivers exceptional waterproofing performance and durability. Its innovative adhesive technology ensures a strong bond to a variety of substrates, making it ideal for low-slope roofing applications. The product’s flexible nature allows it to accommodate thermal movement and expansion, minimizing the risk of cracking and leaks.
Polyflex SA P
Polyflex SA P is a premium, self-adhered APP modified bitumen cap sheet that offers superior weather resistance and a classic aesthetic finish. Its unique formulation provides excellent resistance to UV radiation, ozone, and extreme temperature fluctuations. The product’s self-adhering technology simplifies installation, reduces labor costs, and minimizes disruption to building occupants.
Wynright Building
The existing modified roof was cleaned and primed before installing Polyflex smooth cap sheet over the 30,000 square foot portion of the roof that was being reroofed. Polyflex was heat-welded and left to weather for 30 days. Once ready, Polybrite 70 elastomeric roof coating was applied to achieve a monolithic, white, reflective surface.
Deccofelt Corporation Headquarters
It was important to the building owner to not disturb building occupants and to have a roof system installed quickly.
The specification for the roof called for Polyglass’ Polybrite™ 70, a white elastomeric roof coating over a modified bitumen membrane.
The application of Polybrite 70 was fast, easy and clean. The job was completed in just over a month with little to no interruption to the building occupants. The contractor chose to spray the product and the result was an evenly coated, highly-reflective roof.
Cerritos Office Building
The 15,000 square foot roof on the building was in desperate need of renovation. After cleaning the roof and repairing any issues, PG 800 was applied with the fabric, followed by two coats of PG 700.
New York Bank Headquarters
Project Overview
Roof Pro, a New York based roofing contractor, was selected to tear off old roof system and install a new roofing system for a bank headquartered in New York. The building had a two roof system, with a hot-tar build up roof underneath a layer of insulation and loose laid EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer) membrane.
The Region’s Climate
New York has moderate precipitation throughout the year, some heat waves in summer and very cool weather in winter and even in the early spring. Snow is concentrated in winter months.
The Roofing System Selected
Roof Pro worked with their customer to choose the right solution. The Polyglass self-adhered SBS modified bitumen membrane was selected to build a watertight roofing system. The roofing system consisted of two plies of Elastoflex SA V base sheet and one Elastoflex SA P, a white self-adhered cap sheet.