Allana Buick & Bers (ABB) was retained by the County of Solano, to identify the source(s) of moisture infiltration and propose remedial repairs for copper roofs at the Fairfield Suisun Community Library.

The library is a one and two story concrete framed structure consisting of cast-in-place and pre-cast structural and wall elements. Walls consist of concrete panels and/or concrete masonry in-fill with a decorative brick veneer and aluminum storefront window systems. The Library roof systems consisted of a combination of single ply roofing as well as standing seam copper metal roof with battens.

The library underwent extensive roof renovations during 1997-1998, but experienced minor leaks shortly thereafter. During a major remodeling project in 2003, leaks were discovered throughout the building envelope, in the roofs and walls.

The existing roof systems consisted of PVC single-ply roof membrane on low slope roof areas and batten seam copper roofs on steeper sloped roof areas. Exposed equipment wells were covered with standing seam metal roofing during the 1997-1998 renovation. Prior to the involvement of ABB, the source of leaks had been thought to be in the field of the roof. Extensive investigation determined that the leaks were also in the walls, windows, gutters, and transitions between the metal roof and the gutters.

The building had been vacated and was under extensive renovation when the building envelope and storefront leaks were discovered. Shortly thereafter, roof leaks were discovered. Since the building was planned for reopening only a few months after the leaks were discovered, this created pressure on the Owner and ABB to complete the leak detection survey and the design in record time. Working for the program manager, we were able to meet the County´s requirements and have the building back in operation on time. ABB also assisted the on site project manager, Kitchell Associates with construction administration and construction management issues.