Monroe Hall Roof Reconstruction
Repairs to the Monroe Hall roof began in the November 2023, focused on isolated issues in the top floor of the building where leaks had appeared for several years. In this initial stage of the project estimated to take a couple of weeks, the contracted roofer removed damaged slate and insulation to then install new material to seal the leak. The progress of the project is temperature dependent as it needs to be above 45 degrees for the adhesives to cure, so it was limited in scope and timing until temperatures began to warm this spring semester. As the repairs proceeded, we uncovered additional concerns.
Once the slate was removed to make the repairs, which included re-flashing around the drains scupper, roof hatch and slate termination, the contractor and our facilities team found that that water had been getting under the slate and under the rubber membrane. This water intrusion had damaged some of the wooden rafters and substrate. At this point in the project, we brought in a structural engineer to inspect the roof, and we closed the building to provide space and time for the assessment and subsequent work needed.
As of Feb. 1, 2024, Monroe Hall is closed for a roof reconstruction project during the spring 2024 semester, and we will update the campus community on the scope and timeline of the project as it develops.
In April 2024, we updated the campus community that we are now planning the roof reconstruction project for this summer and anticipate that it will extend into the fall 2024 semester, requiring Monroe Hall to remain closed for part or all of the upcoming semester. We are once again working with the Registrar’s Office and department chairs to schedule alternative class spaces. If you have fall 2024 classes that are listed in Monroe Hall, the location of the class will be updated by the end of the spring 2024 semester. Updates will be available via the student information system when complete.
With the extended closure, opportunities have been scheduled for faculty and staff to retrieve any additional items from Monroe Hall and for students to take senior photos and spring photos around the building. The building is closed for construction and will be locked throughout the project. Access is only available through Facilities Operations.
As the project progresses this spring, we’ve installed a tarp to protect the attic area, beginning in the northeast corner of the building, which has been prioritized as the area most in need of repairs due to recent rain. As the roof reconstruction begins, a fence will be added around the building to include a portion of the parking spaces in the Monroe Hall North Lot for materials. The fence installation is scheduled for Friday, April 26.
We are appreciative of everyone’s patience and flexibility during this project.