Building size: 37,094 sqft.
Building area raised: 26,841 (72% of total roof area)
66 Akron Road
Toronto, Ontario
Previously, we spoke about how raising the roof of your building can help with storage space and efficient industrial practices. Our client, a dairy production facility, outgrew their original premises and needed to expand to a second facility in the South Etobicoke area. They wanted to be close to their original location and to their labour pool that lives in the South Etobicoke area. They purchased a new facility with a clear ceiling height of 18 feet due to a limited supply of local industrial properties for sale.
Before the roof lift could begin, all mechanical systems connected to the structure had to be carefully disconnected. This included plumbing lines, electrical systems, HVAC units, and sprinkler systems. The disconnections had to be performed methodically to prevent damage and ensure that reinstallation would be smooth and functional after the roof was raised. Additionally, safety measures were implemented to avoid accidents, such as labeling and securing disconnected utilities to keep them out of the work area.
The roof was nearing the end of its useful life, presenting an added layer of complexity. Many areas of the roof showed signs of wear and tear, and it was critical to address these damaged sections without affecting the rest of the roof’s usability. Salvaging viable portions of the roof membrane required a careful and calculated approach, particularly when removing materials like parapets and insulation to prepare for the lift. This delicate process helped minimize material waste and extended the roof’s functionality until a full replacement became necessary.
During the execution phase, it was crucial to cut back and remove multiple layers of the existing roofing membrane without causing unnecessary damage. This precision work was essential to ensure that the roof remained stable and usable for several more years, despite its already deteriorating condition. Any mishandling during this phase could have resulted in leaks, further damage, or even structural failures, complicating the roof lift and increasing costs.
This complex project involved various teams, including engineers, roof-lifting specialists, and structural steel erectors, all working on different aspects of the build. Effective communication was paramount to ensure that each team could complete its tasks without delays or conflicts. Schedules and work plans had to be aligned across disciplines, with updates shared regularly to keep the project progressing smoothly. Missteps in coordination could have caused interruptions in the workflow, but the project’s collaborative approach minimized such risks.
Despite the complexities of the project, our team delivered innovative solutions to overcome each obstacle. By leveraging extensive experience and close collaboration with partners, we ensured the successful completion of the roof lift within the given timeframe. Below are the key strategies that contributed to the project’s success.
Raising the roof of a building is no small feat. Our team worked with Roof Lifters, engineers, contractors, and designers to pull off this major change to this building. The result is worth the work, and now this company can reach its full potential with enough space to expand. As the teaching goes, “According to the painstaking effort, is the reward!” [Ethics of Our Fathers]
Elite Roofing prides itself on quality workmanship and exceptional customer service. Here at Elite, we are more than just a roofing company, we are a family. We’re available 24/7 to answer all of your roofing questions. That’s the Elite Advantage.
