Highrises

Superior has an extensive portfolio of completed high rise projects.

Each high rise building is unique. Understanding the original design and use of the roof must be properly analyze by a professional that has experience with this type of construction. High rise roofs are generally used as a staging platform for cleaning the exterior of the build and require special details that will not fail due to a contractors rigging.

Superior has replaced a number of high rise roofs that failed. All of these failures could have been avoided if a properly designed roof system had been installed. Typically, the cause of the failure is not covered under the roof manufacturer’s warranty. The three main causes of failure on high rise roofs are foot traffic, air pressure inside the build combined with a wind event. Many owners and roofing contractors make the mistake of changing the existing roofs design to meet new code requirements without understanding the consequences.

Photo of a roof failure on a high rise building and one of the causes.

Cause: Air gap at wall was never sealed!

Building Code Challenges

Like all buildings, high-rise buildings are subject to applicable building codes. However, not all original roof systems were built to code. In particular, codes having to do with uplift resistance and energy conservation may not have been in place when the original roof was installed. Many high rise building have the roofing system installed directly to the building concrete deck with the insulation installed over the roofing membrane. This can present a number of challenges for a roof replacement project.

Roof Design Challenges

Building pressure, flashing height limitations, transporting materials and roof terminations hidden by membrane flashings that terminate behind wall panels or rooftop equipment screens can present a serious problem.

You need a contractor that has the experience of installing roofs on building like yours. A contractor that understands the design-related challenges before the project is started. In addition, you will want a contractor that has the equipment and cabling systems to transport materials to the roof and remove debris and used materials from the roof with minimal disruption to your tenants. Our hoist and cabling systems are designed to alleviate the use of elevators and other indoor commotion. We utilize a secure system to ensure minimal disturbances to staff and residents. Additional concerns for high-rise buildings include attaining the proper permits for building envelope projects. With expertise in permit procedures for a vast number of cities across the United States, Superior, has experience in attaining scaffolding permits, sidewalk permits, and, when necessary, road diversions.