When LOA Roofing & Construction was contracted to manage three major roof replacement projects on Huston-Tillotson University’s East Austin campus, leadership knew it would be a rewarding undertaking. Due to the complexity of the work, project approval took two and a half years. The projects are a testament to the company’s expertise and creative capabilities.
Shortly before LOA began work, the Huston-Tillotson University campus received a huge acknowledgment when it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. The entire campus was designated a historic district, protecting this vital education center's rich history. LOA understood that being the university’s roofing contractor meant they were being given the responsibility of preserving history.
The project included roof replacement for the Davage-Durden Student Union building, Anthony and Louise Viaer Alumni Hall, and a historic chapel at College Row Park. Huston-Tillotson University is known for its early 20th-century architecture, which was a significant consideration for LOA’s owner, Patrick Rich, who coordinated project planning for approval. The Anthony and Louise Viaer Alumni Hall, originally known as The Administration Building, was built circa 1914, and the chapel was built sometime in the late 1800s to early 1900s.
Roof replacement on the College Row Park chapel went well beyond replacing the surface roofing materials. In addition to re-framing the roof, LOA also reframed the walls from the inside. This technique was used to preserve the exterior walls for historical purposes. Replacing the roof involved first removing 3-4 layers of organic shingles and wood shake. New decking and subfloor were installed before the structure was reroofed with Owens Corning duration shingles. The goal was to improve structural integrity with as little visible change to the chapel as possible.
The next building to be reroofed was the Davage-Durden Student Union. Though less old than the chapel, the Davage-Durden Student Union roof covers much more square footage. Again, the aging built-up roofing material needed to be removed before new roofing could be installed. The decision was made to use a TPO layover that is partly fully adhered to and partly mechanically fastened.
Reroofing and construction at Anthony and Louise Viaer Alumni Hall was the most significant undertaking, combining historic architecture and sizable square footage. The building originally had a lead roof that needed to be removed before being replaced by a standing seam metal roof that was acceptable per historical standards. LOA contractors' extensive custom metal work included soldering and flashing around all the chimneys. A section of the roof covered by built-up roofing with gravel and coated several times was removed and replaced with a TPO layover. LOA was also contracted to replace the fascia, repaint the fascia and soffit, install a gutter system, and reconstruct three entrances into the building.
“Every brick tells a story, and every wall holds a memory. Historic buildings are not just structures,” said Eva Valentine, a LOA project Manager who oversaw the work at Huston-Tillotson University. “They are living narratives of our past, connecting us to the people and events that shaped our world.”
The LOA roofing team managed the delicate balance of improving the structural integrity of the buildings using modern materials and techniques while still maintaining the historical integrity of the buildings that are so meaningful to Huston-Tillotson University, the Austin community, and the country as a whole.
The projects commenced during the university’s active Spring semester. LOA remained mindful of student life and activities around the buildings, ensuring that safety was maintained at all times. Given that many undergraduate students, upperclassmen, and residence staff live on campus, the projects involved a unique combination of residential and commercial roofing needs.
LOA Roofing & Construction is available for historic renovations, commercial roofing, and other large-scale projects. If you would like to learn more about the services offered, please visit www.loaconstruction.com
ABOUT LOA ROOFING & CONSTRUCTION
LOA Roofing & Construction was established because founder Patrick Rich knew there was a better way for contractors to do business. Using customer-centric business practices, LOA has become synonymous with integrity, transparency, and quality in the Texas construction industry. The company offers comprehensive roofing and construction services, including complete storm and water restoration. LOA also specializes in commercial buildouts that require functional design and minimal disruption for the business.
Media Contact
Company Name: LOA Roofing & Construction
Contact Person: Eva Valentine
Email: Send Email
Phone: 512-375-3654
Address:706 W. Ben White Blvd Suite 200B
City: Austin
State: Texas
Country: United States
Website: https://www.loaconstruction.com
