Rowe Marine Biological Laboratory

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute
Woods Hole, Mass.
Total Roof Renovation with New BUR Roofing System

Project Summary
As part of a total building renovation, Flagship demolished and removed this facility’s existing commercial roofing system.

• Flagship repaired and replaced portions of the structure’s light concrete roof deck which included the installation of 150 roof penetrations.
• Flagship then installed a layer of insulation and a three-ply cap and gravel hot asphalt built-up commercial roofing system.

Project Description
Flagship was able to completely demolish and remove this structure’s old commercial roof, and then to add a new commercial roofing system. The new system allowed the inclusion of 150 roof penetrations, making the building more functional than the original. A light concrete roof deck was constructed, which was significantly lighter than the original underlying roof structure. This meant there was no need to further reinforce the walls or any of the internal building structure.

As with most large roofing projects, it is essential to install adequate insulation sufficient to reduce heating costs during the winter and cooling costs during the summer. Flagship installed a modern insulation layer, and then covered this with a three-ply cap and gravel system, a hot asphalt built-up commercial roofing system. Built-up roofing is particularly suitable for flat or low slope roofing. It is economic and the many layers provide long lasting protection from the elements.

The total building renovation of the Rowe Laboratory, part of the Marine Biological Laboratories in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, has made this building a state-of-the-art facility.