Thornton, CO
Thornton Natatorium
Scope/Solutions
The Thorton recreation complex includes a gymnasium, racket ball court, and a natatorium with two large pools and spa. The north masonry exterior wall of the natatorium was experiencing severe efflorescence and while the relative humidity in the natatorium was low, condensation was occurring in the exterior walls. SGH investigated the cause of the building enclosure issues.
Highlights of SGH’s work on this project include the following:
- Performed water testing to recreate leaks and disassembled roof and wall sections to understand the construction details
- Concluded that deficiencies in the natatorium roof air barrier and seal allowed moist pool air to flow into the cavity of the brick masonry wall and through the roofing causing mildew growth within the roof system, which is composed of asphalt shingles in sloped areas and a ballasted rubber membrane in flat areas
- Designed new roof system with a structural air/vapor barrier, thermally broken structural blocking, and venting for a cavity space under shingles
- Determined that deficiencies in air barrier construction and in the various mechanical systems caused a positive air pressure condition that contributed to moisture problems
- Prepared plans and specifications for repairs and provided full-time monitoring during construction
- Provided technical support to the owner to assist in recovering damages
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Project Summary
1996
Completion Date
Solutions
Repair & Rehabilitation
Services
Building Enclosures | Applied Science & Research
Markets
Culture & Entertainment
Client(s)
City of Thornton, CO
Specialized Capabilities
Building Science | Roofing & Waterproofing | Environmental Simulations
Key team members
Additional Projects
West
Autodesk University 2016, Main Pavilion
Autodesk University brings the design industry together each year for an exciting conference focusing on new ways to create. SGH provided technologically creative structural design and material testing services to help the design team accomplish the interesting exhibit.
West
Polytrauma and Blind Rehabilitation Center, Field Guide
Displayed outside the Veteran’s Administration Polytrauma & Blind Rehabilitation Center, Field Guide initially appears to be an abstract latticework. SGH consulted on the structural and seismic performance of both sculptures.