CCMUA Construction Management Specialist Chuck Billingham was just making friendly conversation with one of the authority’s roofing contractors when he asked a simple question: “what’s special about this particular roofing membrane?” The system that was to be installed on a half dozen of the Authority’s pump stations as part of a roofing replacement project was different (and significantly more costly) from that which had been installed on the roof of the Admin building during its recent renovations. This question prompted Chuck and the Engineering Department to look into the issue more closely, and while the membrane does have some notable qualities, a more traditional EPDM roof membrane would offer comparable performance, the same 30-year warranty as the alternative, and improved safety in application by avoiding flame treatments required for the other – all at a significant savings of nearly $700,000. Further savings were realized by removing existing skylights in favor of lighting upgrades synchronized with other electrical upgrades. The Authority was able to nearly double the number of station roofs upgraded.
Great improvements start with great questions!
