For more than 135 years, Knickerbocker Roofing & Paving Co. Inc. has provided durable roofing products and services for a variety of structures, including prominent projects like the Wrigley Building in Chicago. Our expertise extends to custom sheet metal fabrication for both ornamental and functional roof elements, which was a critical component of the project at St. John’s at Newman Hall.
The copper steeple at St. John’s was experiencing leaks in several areas originating at the copper steeple itself. The project’s goal was to completely replace the existing copper and the deteriorated wood beneath it. This involved replacing the old shingles with new copper panels, which required meticulous craftsmanship to ensure the new installation was both durable and historically accurate.
Challenges
The primary challenge of this project was recreating historical reproductions of the 100-year-old copper work. This included replicating the unique ‘spun’ copper balustrades, which required specialized skills and attention to detail to match the original design. Another significant challenge was working within the tight interior spaces of the steeple, which limited mobility and necessitated a carefully planned installation process. The dimensions of the roof, with an 11’-8” wide base and a height of 47’, added to the complexity of the project, as all materials had to be precisely measured and installed at a great height.
The work needed to be successfully completed in 120 days while meeting these and other customer specifications.
Capabilities Applied and Processes Utilized
Knickerbocker Roofing’s custom copper work and detailed soldering capabilities were integral to the project’s success. The team was responsible for fabricating and installing all the new copper panels and decorative elements. This required precise measurements and expert soldering techniques to create a watertight seal while maintaining the historical aesthetic of the steeple. The project was a testament to the team’s ability to handle intricate architectural sheet metal work.
The material chosen for the replacement was 20oz copper. This material was selected for its durability and its ability to replicate the look and feel of the original steeple while providing a long-lasting, leak-proof solution. Using this weight of copper ensured that the new steeple would stand up to the elements for decades to come.
Quality Roofing Solutions in the Chicago Area by Knickerbocker Roofing
At Knickerbocker Roofing, our team provides high-quality roofing materials and expert workmanship for commercial and industrial buildings and structures throughout the Chicago area. We bring over a century of experience to every project, ensuring that our commercial and industrial roofing installations and repairs are completed with the highest level of craftsmanship. We also offer emergency repair services and maintenance and inspection plans on a per-project, semi-annual, or annual basis to keep your roof in optimal condition.
Contact us today to learn more about our commercial and industrial roofing options and to discuss your facility’s specific requirements.