Rebuilding the Superdome Roof, 3

As of the first week in May 2006, the reconstruction of the Superdome roof is progressing well. The work thus far has been focused on the south side of the building. The procedures have been well planned and adjusted along the way. The logistics of removing and replacing the decking material is impressive. Once the decking crews have replaced the metal deck, the roofing crews spray the polyurethane foam. Over this, a primer coating is applied to protect the foam from ultraviolet degradation.

In the photo is shown the sequence of steps for replacing the roof. The checkered pattern in the white area is where the existing roof will be removed. The checkered pattern in the black area is where the new deck has been installed and the laps have been foamed. The all black or gray areas have been foamed and coated with a primer. This view is from the east side of the building looking west.

The work areas on the roof appear to be unfinished at this point. This is because the final coating will not be applied until after all of the deck has been replaced and foamed. The final coating will be white in color and will return the Superdome to its original – if not better – appearance.

The foam roof system is not designed to provide a specified thermal resistance. In most roof systems, the designer is trying to achieve certain energy efficiency with the roof system. The interior volume of the Superdome is so large that cooling it would be cost prohibitive. It is not necessary anyway, since it is only occupied at the lower elevation. The mechanical systems are designed to provide cooled air for the spectators and the floor level only. For the Superdome roof, we have specified a minimum two and one-half inch thick foam. This will adequately hide the ribs of the metal decking and provide a sturdy substrate for the roof coating.

Superdome Roof