Comprehensive Roof System Upgrade at 241 Columbia St, Cambridge, MA
Reading Time: 3 minutesID Flat Roof recently completed a multifaceted roofing project at 241 Columbia St, Cambridge, MA, showcasing our ability to address complex roof system needs beyond simple membrane replacement. Under the direction of principal contractor Denis Tchernov, our team delivered a complete roofing solution that included critical light and drainage enhancements to improve both functionality and performance.
Project Overview
Our skilled team completed this comprehensive roof system upgrade in 4 days, executing the following interconnected components:
- Stripping One Layer: Careful removal of one layer of the existing roofing material to prepare for the new system.
- Skylight Replacement: Installation of 3 new skylights to enhance natural lighting while ensuring watertight integration with the new roof.
- Drainage Improvements: Strategic installation of 2 new 4-inch drains to optimize water management and prevent pooling.
- PVC Membrane Installation: Application of a 60 mil PVC membrane across the entire roof surface.
- Total Area Covered: The project encompassed 30 squares (3,000 sq. ft.) of roofing surface.
Technical Details
- Material Selection: Premium 60 mil PVC membrane chosen for its excellent durability, weather resistance, and compatibility with the new skylights and drains.
- Integrated System Approach: Careful coordination of membrane installation with skylight and drain replacements to ensure seamless waterproofing at all penetration points.
- Drainage Engineering: Properly sized 4-inch drains installed at optimal locations to ensure effective water removal even during heavy Boston area rainfall events.
Neighborhood Context
Located on Columbia Street in Cambridge, this property sits in one of the Boston area’s most historically significant and intellectually vibrant communities. East Cambridge, where Columbia Street is located, features:
- Rich architectural heritage with many historic properties requiring thoughtful renovations
- Proximity to Kendall Square, a global center for technology and innovation
- Mix of residential, commercial, and light industrial buildings reflecting Cambridge’s diverse character
- Strong community emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency
- Relatively dense urban environment necessitating careful project management
When working in this established Cambridge neighborhood, our team prioritized:
- Respecting surrounding properties during all phases of the project
- Ensuring new skylights complemented the building’s architectural character
- Implementing drainage solutions appropriate for Cambridge’s infrastructure
- Minimizing disruption in this active urban environment
Benefits for the Property Owner
- Enhanced Natural Lighting: The three new skylights provide improved interior daylighting, potentially reducing lighting costs and enhancing occupant comfort.
- Superior Water Management: The two new 4-inch drains significantly improve the roof’s ability to handle heavy precipitation, protecting the structure from water damage.
- Comprehensive Protection: The 60 mil PVC membrane provides excellent waterproofing performance alongside the new roof penetrations and fixtures.
- Improved Energy Performance: The combination of new PVC membrane and quality skylights contributes to better overall building thermal performance.
- Extended System Lifespan: Addressing all components simultaneously ensures the entire roof system will perform optimally for years to come.
Conclusion
The comprehensive roof system upgrade at 241 Columbia St, Cambridge, MA, exemplifies ID Flat Roof‘s ability to deliver integrated roofing solutions that address multiple needs simultaneously.
By combining membrane replacement with skylight and drainage improvements, we provided the property owner with a complete roofing system rather than just a new surface. This project demonstrates our technical versatility and systems-thinking approach to roofing across Cambridge and Greater Boston’s diverse building stock.
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Denis is the driving force behind ID Flat Roof, a leading company in Boston specializing in flat roof repair and installation for over 20 years.
Expertise:
Denis excels in PVC, TPO, EPDM, and rubber roofing. His meticulous approach ensures quality and customer satisfaction.
Innovation:
Denis incorporates cutting-edge solutions like skylights and solar PV roofing.