Commercial Partial Roof Replacement for the Canadian National Railway Offices in Vaughan

Project Specifications

Type of Project: Partial Roofing Replacement
Square Footage: 9,400
Roof Membrane (Field Area) and Flashing Membrane: 2-Ply SBS Modified Bitumen
Insulation: 3″ ISO, tapered insulation, 0.5″ High-Density Perlite-Based Cover Board
Deck Type: Concrete

Commercial Roofing Client
The Canadian National Railway offices
Address: 1 Administration Road, Vaughan, Ontario

The Approach

When recommending a roofing membrane for our clients, there are multiple factors to take into consideration. The 2-ply SBS modified bitumen membrane is a reliable and energy-efficient choice, but it’s not the only reason why we chose this option. The future building use and design was a factor when choosing this particular membrane. Relatively low staging impact and low degree of impact regarding ongoing use of the building made a fully adhered SBS membrane an easy choice for this structure.

Client Goal/Purpose of Project

The Canadian National Railway sought a partial roof replacement for their office building at 1 Administration Road, Vaughan, Ontario. The goal of the project was to install a durable and energy-efficient roofing solution tailored to the building’s future use and design. The replacement involved a 9,400-square-foot area using a 2-ply SBS modified bitumen membrane, which provides a reliable, low-impact solution compatible with ongoing office operations.

Key Challenges

The Canadian National Railway roof replacement project posed several challenges related to management, execution, and planning. Each obstacle required a tailored approach to ensure the successful completion of the project while maintaining safety and efficiency.

Planning

Developing a Comprehensive Execution Plan

From the outset, the team crafted a phased execution plan that divided the project into manageable stages. This approach allowed for the systematic removal of the existing roof and installation of the new system without disrupting operations. Milestones were set for each phase, ensuring steady progress and adherence to the client’s tight schedule. Contingency plans were also prepared to address potential delays caused by weather or supply chain issues.

Collaborating with the Client for Transparent Decision-Making

Close collaboration with the client was integral to the project’s success. Weekly progress meetings were held to review milestones, discuss any adjustments, and keep the client informed. By maintaining transparency and seeking client input at every stage, the team ensured that the project scope remained aligned with the client’s expectations and priorities.

Selecting the Best Materials for Long-Term Performance

The choice of a 2-ply SBS modified bitumen membrane was a key planning decision. This system not only met the client’s need for energy efficiency but also provided superior durability and resistance to weather conditions. The use of tapered insulation ensured effective water drainage, further enhancing the roof’s long-term performance. These carefully selected materials reflected a commitment to quality and functionality, meeting both immediate project needs and future requirements.

Management & Execution

Ensuring Worker and On-Site Employee Safety

This project began at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, demanding strict adherence to safety protocols. The Elite team implemented comprehensive health measures, including mandatory PPE, social distancing on-site, regular health checks, and enhanced sanitation practices. These measures were critical not only for protecting workers but also for ensuring the safety of the Canadian National Railway staff who remained on-site. The seamless execution of these protocols allowed the project to move forward without incident, meeting all government and industry safety standards

Addressing Tight Deadlines and Operational Constraints

The project was under a time-sensitive deadline to ensure the roof replacement was completed before the office reopened. Planning was complicated by the operational constraints of a partially active office building. Maintaining uninterrupted workflows for the client required detailed scheduling and phased project management. The team carefully sequenced the work, focusing on the most critical sections of the roof while ensuring minimal disruption to on-site operations.

Managing Logistics in a Limited Staging Area

The site offered limited space for staging equipment and materials, presenting logistical challenges. With no room for inefficiencies, the team implemented a just-in-time delivery approach. Materials were delivered in small, precise shipments to minimize clutter and keep the project site organized. Additionally, innovative use of tools like an external-mounted trash chute and crane operations streamlined debris removal and equipment placement, maximizing space utilization without disrupting the site’s functionality.

During Roof Replacement

Pictured below progress photos showcasing the careful installation of the 2-ply SBS modified bitumen membrane and the precise placement of tapered insulation to ensure proper water drainage and long-term durability.

Solutions for this Commercial Roofing Client

Delivering a successful partial roof replacement for the Canadian National Railway offices required innovative solutions to address the challenges at hand. By leveraging expertise and maintaining open communication with the client, the Elite team ensured a seamless project execution.

Prioritizing Health and Safety During the Pandemic

At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Elite Roofing quickly adapted to the unique challenges presented by the situation. Enhanced safety protocols included the mandatory use of personal protective equipment (PPE), routine health screenings for all team members, and staggered shifts to reduce the number of workers on-site at any given time. Additionally, the team implemented rigorous sanitation procedures to ensure work areas were consistently cleaned. These measures not only safeguarded the workforce but also provided reassurance to the client, allowing the project to proceed without delays or safety concerns.

Optimized Material Selection and Delivery Approach

The selection of a 2-ply SBS modified bitumen membrane reflected the client’s need for a durable and energy-efficient solution. This roofing material offered excellent performance in terms of longevity and resistance to weathering, making it ideal for the building’s design and intended use. To minimize disruptions, materials were delivered in smaller, strategically scheduled shipments. This approach reduced site congestion and allowed for efficient staging, ensuring that active areas of the property remained fully operational throughout the replacement process.

Efficient Project Management for Timely Completion

With a tight deadline in place, Elite Roofing employed a detailed project plan with clear timelines, milestones, and contingencies. The team worked closely with the client to develop a phased execution strategy, ensuring all critical areas were addressed without compromising ongoing operations. Real-time monitoring and adjustments to workflows allowed the project to stay on schedule despite occasional weather disruptions. This meticulous planning and adaptability ensured the project was completed efficiently while maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship and quality.

Contact Elite Roofing for your next roofing project!

If you’re looking for a trusted roofing partner contact Elite Roofing. Elite Roofing is a multiple-award-winning recipient of the Industrial Roofing Safety Performance Award and is proud to provide in-house training to its employees to ensure your project goes off without a hitch. We’re available 24/7 to answer all of your roofing questions. That’s the Elite Advantage.