Woolworth Building’s Roof Restored Using Sikalastic® RoofPro

By Sika. 

Find out how Sikalastic® RoofPro membrane was used to restore the roof of this longstanding New York skyscraper. 

Project description 

The Woolworth Building has been a New York landmark skyscraper since 1913. It was originally built to be Frank W. Woolworth’s headquarters, and at one point it was the world’s tallest building. The building was designed by famous architect Cass Gilbert, who adorned the building with its Neo-Gothic aesthetic. Seeing as the building is over 100 years old, it was time for a complete roofing replacement. To transform the building into condominium residences, decorative cresting replication and terra cotta restoration were necessary to complete the project. 

As part of the project scope, it was determined that the roofs would be replaced due to their age and being impacted by planned alterations. The existing roofs were made of coal tar pitch and felts and dated from the late 1970s to early 1980s. 

Project solution 

Prior to commencing work on the roofs, the concrete deck and masonry surfaces needed to be repaired. Sika concrete repair mortars and sealants were used to create a suitable surface to receive the new roofing system. 

The Sikalastic® RoofPro membrane is a cold applied, fully reinforced, liquid applied roofing/waterproofing membrane. The Sikalastic® RoofPro 25 system was installed on multiple roof terraces and setbacks in both a Protected Membrane Roof (PMR) assembly and Conventional Roof Assembly based upon the structure and designed use for each roof level totaling over 18,000 square feet. In order to meet the aesthetic goals of the project, the Sikalastic® RoofPro membrane was manufactured in a terra cotta and copper patina color to closely match the existing building components. The color pigment is consistent throughout the entire thickness of the membrane and will not wear off like a top coat used only to achieve color might, thus ensuring long term aesthetics and performance. The completed roofs were finished with the Hanover Guardian® paver system and Ipe wood decking. 

Project participants 

Developer: Alchemy Properties 
Consultant: Façade MD Architecture & Engineering 
Contractor: Nicholson & Galloway, Inc. 
Pavers: Hanover Architectural Products 

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Original article source: Sika