Stadiums and entertainment venues are often multilevel concrete structures with multiple expansion and control joints. These joints help the building expand and contract as the building moves over time without causing cracks or failures in the materials. While the joints protect the overall structural components, the sealants in the joints typically only last three to five years. When they fail, the joints allow moisture and spilled liquids to flow between decks and leak onto whatever is below.
In most venues, this could include suites, kitchens, concessions, locker rooms, service areas, office space, corridors, electrical/data rooms and janitorial facilities. Often times, the owner does not choose to re-caulk all joints in a stadium at the time of failure. This, in addition to weathered traffic coatings and cracks in the concrete, can lead to water leaks. A sub-roofing system can be the solution. They consist of metal roofing suspended beneath upper deck areas to direct any moisture and liquids to a gutter that drains to a storm system.
Sub-roofing systems are specialty engineered metal panels suspended by rods anchored to the underside of structural members. The sub-roofs are designed to be installed before mechanical, electric, plumbing (MEP), which dictates the weight requirements and anchor pattern in which the rods will be hung, specified by a licensed engineer. The final step is performing a water test to make sure the stystem functions as designed.
Chamberlin has extensive experience with sub-roof systems and their applications. We are capable of assisting the design team professionals by determining the proper means and methods of install in a new construction project. Then our team will fully execute the installation while coordinating with the many other trades involved. Since some MEP equipment will need to be suspended below the metal roof, proactive planning and a deep understanding of how the system works is critical to the installation and proper functionality. We are proud to be one of only a few companies in the United States who installs sub-roofing systems.