Roofing for the Future of the Javits Convention Center

When severe leaking compromised New York City’s main convention center, a Siplast^© roofing system solved the problem and supported the nation’s second largest green roof.

A convention of leaks

With more than two million annual visitors and $2 billion of economic impact, the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center is a major player in the New York regional economy. When chronic leaks in the aging roof threatened to dampen the facility’s future, management looked for a long-term solution.

The roofing contractor, United States Roofing, Corp. (USRC), specified a complete Siplast^© system to waterproof the structure and support a new 309,000 square-foot green roof.

A platform for growth

USRC installed a temporary waterproofing with Siplast Paradiene 20 EG TG to stop the leaks and allow for an extensive HVAC retrofit. Once mechanical work was complete, Siplast NVS System, a lightweight insulating concrete was placed on the roof to provide slope for drainage and thermal value.

Next, Siplast Parabase FS base sheet was attached to the concrete, followed by Paradiene 20 HV TG and a finish ply of Siplast Teranap. The complete Siplast waterproofing solution not only protects the Javits Center structure but also allows for the extensive green roof overburden that cools the building, reduces storm runoff, and offers habitat to wildlife.

Facts:

• Javits Center green roof covers 6.75 acres.
• The green roof reduces the city’s stormwater burden by 6.8 million gallons per year.
• The green roof provides habitat for 26 types of birds and 5 bat species.