The complete roof replacement of the historic Milwaukee County Courthouse completed by F.J.A. Christiansen has been named a 2006 Project of Distinction by the Wisconsin Chapter of the Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC). Additionally, a Certificate of Commendation was awarded to Christiansen in ABC National’s 2006 Excellence in Construction competition.
This is the second time Christiansen has earned the honor, according to Todd Orvedahl, Vice President. Christiansen’s massive exterior renovation of Holy Hill, National Shrine of Mary was named a 2003 ABC Project of Distinction Award recipient.
“We’re greatly honored to receive this award for a second project,” Orvedahl said, noting the rigorous nomination criteria and that F.J.A. Christiansen competed against well-deserved projects and roofing contractors from throughout the state. “The award recognizes the quality work we do.”
The Courthouse project award was under the Thermal and Moisture Protection category. The project involved a complete tear-off down to the structural deck of the original roof. After insulation was added, a membrane and gravel surfaced built-up roofing system was installed along with extensive copper architectural sheet metal details.
The work, undertaken in three phases from 2005 to 2006, presented several challenges to Christiansen crews. The Courthouse has multiple roof levels and is as high as 350 feet in some areas, Orvedahl said. Complicating matters was a requirement that most of the work be done at night so courthouse activities would not be disturbed by construction noise. With the building being closed at night, crews had to use a scaffolding stairway – with over 130 feet of stairs – to access the roof. Also, expansive HVAC equipment and ductwork made access to many roof areas difficult and cumbersome.
F.J.A. Christiansen also performed the first roof replacement project on the Courthouse 30 years ago.
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